Warning: This article contains spoilers for the ending of Wicked: For Good.
If someone had told me before watching Wicked: For Good that the "For Good" duet between Elphaba and Glinda wouldn’t be the movie’s most heartbreaking moment, I would have questioned their grasp of the story’s emotional core. However, it turns out that the film’s climactic "door scene" takes that title.
Wicked: For Good, the second part of Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation of the beloved musical Wicked (originally based on Gregory Maguire’s novel and Frank L. Baum’s classic tale The Wizard of Oz), premiered in cinemas recently and shattered box office records with a $226 million opening weekend. This success even outpaced the first installment, released a year prior, which was praised by critics and fans alike.
The sequel continues the saga a few years after the first part, with Elphaba in hiding as the Wicked Witch, striving against the wizard’s tyranny and advocating for oppressed animals. Meanwhile, Glinda, now a spokesperson for the wizard and engaged to Fiyero, faces her own set of challenges. The unexpected arrival of Dorothy from Kansas complicates matters further, setting the stage for a series of transformative events in Oz.
The Gelphie Phenomenon
The second act of this story has been long awaited by fans who ship Elphaba and Glinda, affectionately known as "Gelphie." This pair has been a topic of fervent discussion since Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth’s original performances in the 2003 stage musical. Many fans have noted the sapphic undertones in their relationship, which goes beyond mere friendship.
While the musical portrays them as friends, Maguire's novel includes a significant moment where Elphaba and Glinda share a kiss, hinting at deeper feelings. Maguire has confirmed that this subtext was intentional, adding layers to their dynamic that resonate deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences. The narrative of Wicked, with its themes of otherness and equality, has long been embraced by the LGBTQ+ community, aligning with the historical queer connections of the original Wizard of Oz stories.
Over the years, fans have created a plethora of fan fiction and art dedicated to Gelphie. The chemistry and tension between Elphaba and Glinda are palpable in every performance, becoming one of the most beloved WLW (women-loving-women) ships in the realm of musical theatre.
The Door Scene
As the film reaches its climax, tension builds when Dorothy leads a mob against Elphaba. In a bid to save her friend, Glinda secretly rides to Elphaba’s side. At the castle, Elphaba entrusts Glinda with the Grimmerie, urging her to bring about positive change in Oz. Realizing this might be their final meeting, they share an emotional farewell, culminating in the powerful "For Good" duet.
It is here that the "door scene" unfolds. Elphaba places Glinda in a closet to protect her from the impending danger. Through a split-screen, we witness them on either side of the door, expressing their love and sorrow. This poignant moment, improvised by Erivo and Grande during rehearsals, has left an indelible mark on audiences. The symbolism is profound: Elphaba literally puts Glinda "in the closet," a metaphorical nod to the unspoken tensions and societal constraints they face.
The scene is a testament to their enduring bond, and the physical barrier of the door reflects the barriers in their lives—barriers that could be removed but remain due to circumstance and choice. The intensity of their connection is undeniable, making this moment a powerful tribute to Gelphie fans, who have longed for such validation in the canon narrative.
This emotional crescendo resonates with anyone who has experienced a bittersweet farewell, leaving viewers breathless. The scene’s impact is such that it has already become a cultural touchstone, sparking countless fan analyses and edits.
Your Thoughts
What did you think of the "door scene"? Join the conversation below, but please keep your comments respectful and constructive.
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