A Magical Tale That Shines a Spotlight on Oppression and Compassion..
The new Wicked movie is dazzling audiences with its vibrant storytelling, but beyond the spellbinding music and visuals lies a deeper, thought-provoking message about discrimination and animal rights. At its heart, the story of Wicked challenges us to reflect on the way we treat others—whether human or animal—and confronts the consequences of prejudice.
In the land of Oz, Animals (yes, with a capital A) can talk, think, and even teach at universities. But as the story unfolds, these sentient beings are slowly stripped of their rights and silenced by society. One of the most heart breaking examples of this is Doctor Dillamond, a wise and kind Goat who loses his teaching position simply because of his species.
This systemic dehumanization of Animals in Wicked feels uncomfortably familiar. It mirrors the way animals in our world are often treated—as lesser beings, exploited, and denied autonomy. The film cleverly uses this magical context to highlight the cruelty of speciesism, inviting us to rethink our own practices and attitudes toward animals.
Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned protagonist, becomes a fierce advocate for the Animals' rights. Despite facing relentless bullying for her appearance, she bravely stands up against the injustice happening around her. Her journey is both inspiring and heart breaking, as it reminds us how easy it is for society to marginalize those who don't fit in—or who dare to challenge the status quo.
From a vegan perspective, Elphaba's fight is a call to action. It's a reminder that standing up for animals and other oppressed groups isn't always easy, but it's absolutely necessary if we want to create a kinder, fairer world.
Interestingly, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) gave Wicked a PG rating with a warning for scenes involving discrimination. They specifically highlighted the persecution of Animals and Elphaba's mistreatment for her green skin. This acknowledgment shows just how deeply the film engages with themes of prejudice and the dehumanization of sentient beings.
While Wicked is set in a fantastical world, its themes resonate powerfully in our reality. The film challenges us to question the systems of oppression we accept as "normal," particularly when it comes to animals.
Do we see animals as individuals with the right to live freely, or do we treat them as commodities? Do we speak out against injustice, like Elphaba, or do we stay silent in the face of cruelty?
By weaving these ethical questions into a captivating story, Wicked not only entertains but also educates. It's a magical tale with a powerful moral, one that encourages us to reflect on how we can make the world a better place for all beings.
At its core, Wicked is about seeing beyond appearances and choosing compassion over prejudice. Whether it's a talking Goat in Oz or the animals we share our planet with, the message is clear: all sentient beings deserve respect and kindness.
So, as you leave the theater humming Defying Gravity, take a moment to think about the Animals in the story—and the ones in our world. Perhaps their fight for justice can inspire us to create a reality where no one, human or animal, is left behind.
What do you think of the film's take on animal rights? Let's chat in the comments below!
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