Seeing myself in the world of the ‘Wicked’ film
The issues of Nessa and her wheelchair seem familiar and appropriate
When the movie version of “Wicked” hit theaters last fall and skyrocketed to critical and commercial success, musical theater enthusiasts everywhere felt validation. The blockbuster adaptation of the hit musical struck a chord with devoted fans, casual viewers, and anyone with a passing familiarity with “The Wizard of Oz” mythos.
A while back, I wrote about my history with the stage musical, noting what I love about it as well as some of the show’s problematic depictions of disability. When I saw the movie on opening weekend, I went in with both excitement and trepidation. As much as I love the Oz universe and the core tenets of “Wicked,” I wanted the film version to emphasize strong and authentic disability representation. I’m one of many disabled writers who have voiced opinions on this aspect of the story, and in that column, I expressed hope that the filmmakers would take our criticisms seriously.
While this movie is only the first half of a two-part adaptation, I left the theater bursting with joy. I loved it in terms of visual spectacle, acting, storytelling, and big-screen renditions of my favorite songs, but I especially appreciated the film’s portrayal of disability.
Actor Marissa Bode made history as the first wheelchair user to play Nessarose Thropp, sister of the protagonist, Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo). Her performance is outstanding, but her casting isn’t the only thing the filmmakers did to counter the show’s ableist past.
Whereas the stage version portrays Nessarose as bitter and isolated about her disability, the film version shows her with confidence and compassion. In an early scene when her father and Elphaba drop her off at Shiz University, an instructor attempts to push her wheelchair without her consent. Despite her and Elphaba’s protests, the instructor continues to rob Nessarose of her independence, which leads to Elphaba unleashing her magic in a display of emotional outrage.
This time, they got it right
As a viewer with SMA, I found this scene poignant. While I need daily help with physical tasks and rely on family, friends, caregivers, and strangers, I always articulate my needs. One of the most frustrating components of the disability experience is when people intervene without our consent and deny us our autonomy.
Likewise, the relationship between Nessarose and Elphaba in the film has a strength and nuance that differs from the stage version. While not without their differences and conflicts, they have a compassion for each other that’s rooted in their sisterhood and identities as outsiders. Because of her green skin, Elphaba is regularly ostracized and excluded. In a flashback scene created for the film, Elphaba gets bullied and Nessarose is the one who gets upset about her sister’s treatment.
Bode has also spoken about her collaboration with “Wicked” screenwriter and musical scribe Winnie Holzman, and how these conversations influenced changes to Nessarose’s story. The film gives the character a sense of agency and appeal, and it makes me stoked for part two. I’ve now seen the film four times and crowned it my favorite of 2024.
Living with SMA, I see many of my experiences reflected in Nessarose’s. I also see my advocacy work and frustrations with incompetent leaders come across in the fiery, revolutionary spirit of Elphaba. “Wicked” is a prime example of how listening to constructive criticism can yield positive outcomes. When creators listen to marginalized communities and adapt accordingly, magic can happen.
Note: SMA News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of SMA News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to spinal muscular atrophy.
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