Cheelo Sing'anga Tembo

Wicked: A Subtle Yet Powerful Critique of Marginalization The brilliance of Wicked lies in its ability to tell a deeply subversive story about marginalization, oppression, and systemic hypocrisy without explicitly presenting itself as activism. At its core, the tale of Elphaba—a green-skinned woman ostracized for her difference—is a profound metaphor for the experiences of marginalized communities. The "green girl" becomes an allegory for people of color, the queer community, and anyone who has been othered by society. The story challenges narratives of beauty, goodness, and villainy, forcing us to question who decides these labels and why. It is a clear yet subtle scream at the concepts of racism and colorism. One of the most compelling aspects of Wicked is its examination of systemic injustice through the guise of a fantastical world. Elphaba is vilified not because of her actions but because of the way she looks and the audacity she has to challenge oppressive systems. This mirrors real-world dynamics, where marginalized voices are often silenced, and their attempts to advocate for justice are framed as dangerous or radical. The hypocrisy of white saviorism and superiority is particularly evident in the character of Glinda, who embodies privilege. Her unearned adoration and rise to power contrast starkly with Elphaba's struggle for acceptance and agency. Yet, Glinda’s eventual realization of her complicity adds a layer of complexity, reflecting the uncomfortable reckoning that privilege requires. The subtlety of Wicked is part of its genius—and perhaps why it resonates even with audiences who might unconsciously perpetuate the systems it critiques. Many viewers are drawn to its emotional power without fully grasping the depth of its social commentary. This nuance is precisely why Wicked has such universal appeal, even among communities that would rather not confront the realities of systemic racism or oppression. Cynthia Erivo’s frustration at the black erasure in the Wicked discourse highlights this tension. For her, the role of Elphaba carries immense significance as a symbol of resistance against marginalization. The backlash she faced for expressing this shows the persistent pattern of dismissing Black voices and labeling their pain as overreaction. The irony is palpable: white audiences embrace Wicked’s themes of acceptance and equality while perpetuating the very systems of silencing and invalidation the story critiques. Ultimately, Wicked is a powerful reminder of the importance of giving space to marginalized voices, of questioning the narratives we’ve been fed, and of recognizing the subtle but significant ways in which art can mirror our realities. It remains a timeless tale, one that speaks to the enduring struggle for justice and the courage it takes to defy the status quo.

It's not as bad as everyone is putting it. It actually has a nice sense of creativity. And the music is top notch 🙌🏾 4.8/5 stars in my opinion. Y'all just giving it bad reviews cause that's what social media tells you to.