This is not satire!!
The much-anticipated film adaptation of Wicked has drawn attention after the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) issued a cautionary warning about its portrayal of discrimination. Concerns were raised over themes that might upset viewers, particularly regarding the treatment of its green-skinned protagonist, Elphaba.
The BBFC has given the film a PG certificate, advising parents that some scenes could be distressing for younger audiences. According to the Telegraph, the warning specifically notes that Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, is “mocked, bullied, and humiliated because of her skin colour.” The film delves into Elphaba’s backstory, revealing her childhood struggles with being ostracised and shunned due to her green skin—a storyline that mirrors real-world issues of prejudice. (Though honestly, you’d think being green would make her the coolest kid in school!)
Additionally, the BBFC flagged the film’s depiction of magical creatures, highlighting that “talking animals are persecuted in a fantastical society.” They pointed out that seeing beloved characters mistreated, particularly when Elphaba’s appearance is used to portray her as the “Wicked Witch,” could evoke strong emotional reactions from audiences. (Note to self: it seems even a flying monkey can’t catch a break.)
In a statement shared by GB News, the BBFC explained, “Seeing beloved characters being mistreated, especially when Elphaba’s skin colour is used to demonise her as the Wicked Witch, may be upsetting and poignant for some audiences.”
The film, which premiered in theaters worldwide last week, is based on the hit stage musical Wicked. The Broadway production itself was inspired by Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. This story reimagines the world of The Wizard of Oz through Elphaba’s perspective, challenging traditional views of good versus evil. (Spoiler alert: things aren’t so black and white in Oz—or green, for that matter.)
While the BBFC’s warning has sparked debate, it also underscores the film’s powerful exploration of societal biases and the damaging effects of marginalizing those who are different. As audiences flock to see Wicked, its poignant themes continue to resonate, offering a timely reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in storytelling. (And maybe, just maybe, it’ll convince us all to be a little kinder—even to witches.)