With the rising hype of Wicked, the movie, there is a sense of rebirth to musicals.
People who are not familiar with theater are now starting to appreciate the beauty and artistry that constitute musicals. Though the reasons may be different — their pop idol stars in the musical, a soundtrack in a hit TV series is one of the major songs in the production, a favorite actor in a period drama series showcases his musical skills — people come out of the movie theater with a higher respect for musicals. (Some, might I add, are even teary-eyed and emotional.)
Although it is a Broadway staple, Wicked, the musical, expanded its reach to blockbuster movies, and unsurprisingly, garnered 4th place for a musical film (domestic) that grossed $164 million globally, and $114 million domestically (Deadline magazine).
The movie not only appealed to both children and adults, but to the LGBTQ community, for being socially- and politically-conscious.
Wicked is composed of an all-inclusive ensemble – Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, and Marissa Bode (authentically using a wheelchair as Nessarose) — who use their platform and influence to represent the community.
Yet, it is not just the cast that leaves the viewers awe-struck, but the overall performance and production of the movie as there is a reflection of authenticity.
Director Jon M. Chu did not feel comfortable relying on computer-generated imagery to produce the movie, and with his creative team, managed to piece together an interactive setting for filming.
In addition, the actors wanted to perform their songs live, while filming, as an ode to the Broadway actors – giving that raw, unfiltered emotion in their songs.
One of these songs is the running hit Popular, as it exhibits a playful and light exchange between the two characters, Glinda and Elphaba. Glinda, a popular student in Shiz, accidentally finds herself sharing a room with Elphaba, an odd yet talented student. Elphaba, who was born with green skin, and who grew up being quite an awkward person, slowly became a social pariah as she crossed paths with Glinda. Their relationship started out as animosity that slowly evolved to admiration and friendship. Going back to that scenario, Glinda is dead set on giving Elphaba (whom she gleefully nicknamed Elphie) a makeover, stating that she would make Elphie popular.
Even though the song is playful and comedic – especially with Ariane’s rendition and antics as Glinda – it holds a certain depth to it. One particular line that I would like to highlight is when Glinda took Elphaba’s book, pointing at an illustration of an intelligent-looking gentleman, and stating “I remind them on their own behalf to think of celebrated heads of state or especially great communicators! Did they have brains of knowledge? Don’t make me laugh! They were—” to which Elphaba chimes in “Popular!”
Now this line reminds me of our very own situation. Are our leaders there because of their skills and credibility, or are they seated in those “thrones of power” because they are popular?
Admittedly, the mass can easily be swayed by influencers, and what they see in social media. Thus, having such a term as “viral.” Going viral and being popular go hand-in-hand. And what better way to put a social figure in the crosshairs of the masses than with strategically made posts and videos?
With all the different social media posts that play on the emotions of the viewers and readers, extorting a reaction from them, where does truth lie? Does it matter if a social figure manipulates their credentials to fit their accolades? Does it matter if there are questionable actions and behavior from these social and political figures if they can speak enthusiastically?
Another line of the song: “It’s not about aptitude, it’s the way you’re viewed, so it’s very shrewd to be very, very popular like me.” Let me point out that Glinda is not the brightest bulb nor the most talented witch when it comes to magic. She does not have any sort of skill, and may be considered mediocre at best, yet she knows how to carry herself, thus, gaining the attraction and admiration of the public. Does this sound familiar?
If we take a look again at the leaders we had put into power, what do we now see in them? Competence? Ability and skill? Do we see leadership? Compassion? Empathy? Intellect? What does a politico have to do to be rightfully called a true leader? How do we define leadership?
The problem with our country is that we have countless political dynasties. We have people in leadership roles only because of their parents, or their grandparents. Basically, their family’s surname catapulted them to power, and not because of their credentials.
I would assume that people prefer what is familiar. When a voter is given a ballot, he looks at the list of choices, and easily gravitates only towards names he is familiar with. “Blue did a good job during their reign as our leader, for sure Blue.01 would have the same outputs.”
If it is not due to their bloodline, it is because of technology. A simple image and video, with words that appeal to the audience, would put these individuals in a good light.
The people want someone who can be their voice, someone who is empathic; and when they hunger, the social media team of the politicos give the people fodder they they want. If not, manipulate how they think. The mind can easily be molded once emotions are involved.
By that point, having the proper credentials is not top priority in choosing a leader. Or who was it who said that even “honesty should not be an election issue”?
So what of those leaders who are actually credible? In this day and age, credibility will only go so far. They would need to grasp the attention and admiration of the people, for them to gain votes. Of what good is skill and talent if they are hidden in the dark? Even if they are against selling out, it’s sadly the “best” strategy to stay in the game.
In the end, popularity plays a crucial part in politics, and to quote Glinda, “though you protest, your disinterest, I know clandestinely, you’re gonna grin and bear it, your newfound popularity.”
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