In a landmark decision, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) awarded a PG certificate to the musical film Wicked, citing its themes of discrimination against a green-skinned character.
According to the Telegraph, the PG rating primarily addresses the film's depiction of prejudice against its protagonist, Elphaba, due to her distinctive green skin color.
Wicked, featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, premiered in the United States on November 22. The film adapts the popular musical, which draws from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel and incorporates elements from L. Frank Baum’s classic 1900 tale. The narrative centers on the unlikely friendship that develops amid discrimination and societal prejudice.
Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba highlights the various challenges she faces throughout her life, primarily due to the negative reception of her skin color. From childhood, Elphaba endures bullying and humiliation, exploring deeper themes of acceptance and friendship in the face of adversity.
The story also follows the transformation of Elphaba’s relationship with Glinda. Initially adversaries, they gradually form a friendship as they navigate their differences and the external pressures of their world.
Cynthia Erivo discussed the impact of the film in an interview with Tracy E. Gilchrist, who highlighted the power audiences have found in the song "Defying Gravity," a pivotal number from the musical. Erivo expressed surprise upon learning how the lyrics resonated with viewers, emphasizing their emotional engagement with the film's message.
Erivo explained that the film's thematic focus on prejudice reflects not just an artistic choice but also social realities. The film uses its narrative to effectively spotlight issues of intolerance and discrimination, drawing parallels to real-life societal struggles.
In addition to its human characters, "Wicked" highlights other forms of bigotry, such as the persecution of talking animals. These elements work together to portray a complex tapestry of social injustice, which the film addresses through its fantastical and musical format.
Before its release, "Wicked" gained recognition as one of the year’s major theatrical events, with many comparing it to the excitement generated by the 2023 release of "Barbie". The anticipation surrounding "Wicked" reflects its significance as not only entertainment but also a cultural conversation piece.
The BBFC's decision to categorize the film’s content as discriminatory underscores their commitment to addressing issues of representation and prejudice in the media. By awarding the film a PG certificate, the BBFC aims to inform audiences about the thematic elements of discrimination portrayed in the film, suggesting parental guidance to help interpret these themes responsibly.
The film’s classification and the subsequent discussions around it mark a pivotal moment in cinematic history, where content traditionally seen as fantastical is now recognized for its deeper social implications.
Elphaba's journey from a misunderstood character shunned for her differences, to one who defies societal judgments, forms the emotional core of "Wicked." This transformation, underscored by her and Glinda's friendship, sends a potent message about overcoming prejudice and finding common ground in the face of adversity.
The narrative's depth is enhanced by its historical callbacks to Baum’s original works, offering layers of meaning that resonate with both younger and older audiences. These elements ensure "Wicked" not only entertains but educates, making it a relevant piece of modern storytelling.
As "Wicked" continues to be shown in theaters worldwide, its themes are likely to spark discussions and reflections among its viewers, further validating the BBFC’s classification decision. The portrayal of Elphaba's life through the lens of discrimination invites audiences to reflect on broader social issues, making "Wicked" a crucial film for our times.
