What no one noticed about Wicked

Summary

In this reflective analysis, the reviewer delves into the mythic and archetypal themes of *Wicked*, exploring questions of morality, personal agency, and the nature of good and evil. The video critiques the intersection of modern 'woke' culture and Hollywood's influence on storytelling, considering how these contemporary issues may shape the film's narrative. Drawing parallels with *The Wizard of Oz*, the reviewer examines how the musical adaptation engages with deep cultural and political questions while questioning whether its core themes will transcend external agendas. Ultimately, the analysis suggests *Wicked* has the potential for profound personal insight, despite modern cultural challenges.

Takeaways

• 😀 *Wicked* explores the question: Are people born wicked? This theme ties into deep mythological and philosophical ideas about human nature and morality.
• 😀 The film and musical adapt the Wizard of Oz’s archetypes, including themes of good vs. evil, with the Green Witch and Wizard as central figures of this dualism.
• 😀 Russell Brand reflects on the potential for *Wicked* to carry deeper, universal truths through its archetypal symbolism, despite any contemporary cultural or political influences.
• 😀 The film's exploration of 'wickedness' may connect to larger questions about how societal forces influence individual behavior and morality.
• 😀 Brand discusses the impact of modern cultural movements, like 'woke' culture, and how these might affect the film’s message, questioning if it could distort or amplify the archetypal truths.
• 😀 He compares *Wicked* to earlier cultural landmarks like *The Wizard of Oz*, highlighting how its mythic and cultural power has endured over time, especially after its transition to Technicolor.
• 😀 Brand critiques Hollywood’s commercialism but acknowledges that even within this system, films can convey profound truths, as seen in classics like *The Matrix* and *One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest*.
• 😀 He reflects on the challenge of navigating modern political agendas while trying to preserve the timeless themes of good, evil, and justice in storytelling.
• 😀 Brand suggests that despite possible ideological overlays, *Wicked* may still resonate with audiences on a deeper, archetypal level, much like its predecessors.
• 😀 The film’s potential cultural impact is questioned, with Brand wondering whether it will transcend its ideological context and achieve the same lasting significance as *The Wizard of Oz*.

Q & A

What is the central question posed by the film *Wicked*?

The central question posed by *Wicked* is whether people are born wicked, or if wickedness is thrust upon them based on circumstances or external influences.

How does the reviewer interpret the cultural impact of *The Wizard of Oz*?

The reviewer suggests that *The Wizard of Oz* had a profound cultural impact, being the first film in color and offering deep mythic truths that continue to resonate with audiences. The film's symbolic power helped change cinema forever.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the controversy surrounding the musical *Wicked*?

The reviewer acknowledges the controversy surrounding the *Wicked* musical, particularly how the two lead actresses' public appearances seem to rub some people the wrong way, but he also recognizes that the world embraces individuality and cultural nuance.

What does the reviewer suggest about the relationship between mythology and modern culture?

The reviewer suggests that mythology, with its archetypes and deep truths, continues to provide valuable insights even in modern culture, and that films like *Wicked* can offer timeless truths despite contemporary cultural agendas.

How does the reviewer view the role of cultural movements like *wokeness* in films like *Wicked*?

The reviewer questions how modern cultural movements like *wokeness* will affect the storytelling in films like *Wicked*, pondering whether these movements dilute or enhance the archetypal truths within the narrative.

What is the significance of the character of the green witch in *Wicked*?

The green witch, as portrayed in *Wicked*, represents a powerful, archetypal figure that challenges conventional notions of good and evil. The reviewer sees her character as a symbol of personal empowerment and transformation.

What comparison does the reviewer make between *Wicked* and other iconic films?

The reviewer compares *Wicked* to other iconic Hollywood films like *The Godfather*, *One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest*, and *The Matrix*, suggesting that, at its best, Hollywood can produce films with profound cultural and symbolic significance that transcend political or cultural agendas.

How does the reviewer feel about the cultural influence of Hollywood in modern films?

The reviewer expresses skepticism about the cultural influence of Hollywood, acknowledging that at its worst, Hollywood can be driven by superficial agendas, but at its best, it creates films that convey deep truths and explore powerful myths.

What does the reviewer suggest about the power of storytelling in shaping societal beliefs?

The reviewer believes that storytelling, especially in films like *Wicked*, has the power to shape societal beliefs by offering deeper, archetypal truths that resonate with audiences, regardless of the political or cultural context in which they are created.

What is the reviewer's stance on reviewing a film without having seen it?

The reviewer admits to reviewing *Wicked* without having seen it, but emphasizes that his review is based on the trailer and his own reflections on the archetypal themes and cultural implications of the film. He questions whether this is an acceptable way to review films but defends the value of exploring the themes regardless.