
Wicked
A vivid reimagining of the classic The Wizard of Oz, Wicked spotlights the untold stories of Oz's most famous (or infamous) characters, namely the Wicked Witch of the West and her unlikely friend, Glinda the Good Witch. The show follows green-skinned star Elphaba from birth to college and through the life-changing events which eventually label her "wicked," introducing spoiled rich girl Glinda, local prince and heartthrob Fiyero and even the Wizard of Oz himself, a troubled man very unlike the one you may remember. As Elphaba, a passionate political activist if there ever was one, fights injustice and seeks to undo the mistakes of the past, dark secrets and personal tragedies shape the history of Oz, paying homage to the classic Wizard of Oz story while simultaneously changing fans' understanding of it forever. A cautionary tale about love, friendship and trust, Wicked effortlessly reveals that there are indeed two sides to every story.
Despite a major studio investment of $150.0M, Wicked became a financial success, earning $758.7M worldwide—a 406% return. This commercial performance validated the ambitious narrative scope, demonstrating that audiences embrace distinctive approach even at blockbuster scale.
2 Oscars. 125 wins & 324 nominations
Plot Structure
Story beats plotted across runtime


Narrative Arc
Emotional journey through the story's key moments
Story Circle
Blueprint 15-beat structure
Emotional Journey
Wicked's emotional architecture traces a deliberate progression across 3 carefully calibrated beats.
Narrative Framework
This structural analysis employs structural analysis methodology used to understand storytelling architecture. By mapping Wicked against these established plot points, we can identify how the filmmaker utilizes or subverts traditional narrative conventions. The plot point approach reveals not only adherence to structural principles but also creative choices that distinguish Wicked within the fantasy genre.
Comparative Analysis
Additional fantasy films include Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Conan the Barbarian and Batman Forever.
Plot Points by Act
Act I
SetupTheme
Glinda reflects on whether people are born wicked or have wickedness thrust upon them, introducing the central question of nature versus nurture and how society creates its villains.
Act II
ConfrontationPremise
The promise of friendship and belonging. Elphaba experiences acceptance, romantic feelings for Fiyero develop, and she dreams of using her powers for good by meeting the Wizard.
Opposition
Journey to Emerald City and meeting the Wizard. Elphaba discovers the Wizard is a fraud and that her magic is being used to oppress Animals. The regime she trusted is corrupt.







