Get ready, Wicked fans, because a major change is coming that's sparking a lot of buzz! Marissa Bode, who plays Nessa in the upcoming Wicked: For Good movie, is thrilled with how the film is reimagining her character's journey. But here's where it gets controversial... the movie is making a significant shift away from a storyline that some found problematic in the original Broadway musical.
In the stage production, Nessa, who uses a wheelchair, yearned to walk. Elphaba, her sister, used magic to grant her that wish. However, the film, with the help of writer Winnie Holzman, who consulted with a friend with a disability, is changing things up. Nessa's ultimate desire is now centered on love, not the ability to walk.
As Bode shared with Go Magazine, "I am so happy with the change, the old narrative was outdated." The trailer reveals that instead of walking, Nessa will now be able to fly! "And I’ll be honest, it was really fun to fly through the air on set," Bode said. The shift makes a lot of sense, considering the show's theme of "everyone deserves a chance to fly."
But what does this change really mean? The original storyline has been criticized for potentially promoting ableist views, suggesting that being able to walk is the ultimate goal for someone with a disability. The film's new direction emphasizes that Nessa's story is about her desires beyond physical limitations.
Bode also highlighted a crucial point about the experiences of disabled people: sometimes, they don't need help, even if it's offered with good intentions. "Sometimes, disabled people do need help. All disabled people are different, so levels of mobility are different," she explained. "Asking for help is okay, while at the same time, letting non-disabled people know that they shouldn’t always assume."
In the movie, Nessa, Elphaba's younger sister, is paraplegic and later becomes the Wicked Witch of the East. This change is a significant one, and it's bound to stir up some opinions.
What do you think about this change? Do you agree that the original storyline was outdated? Does this new approach better represent the experiences of people with disabilities? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let's discuss!
