Really Tall Guy

Wicked has officially stolen the hearts of millions across the world. Those of us who have loved the musical for literal decades expected at least goosebumps during “Defying Gravity”. What many did not expect was tearing up during “Dancing Through Life”. The moment of Elphaba entering the Ballroom and doing an almost-interpretive dance came to no surprise. It was the weight with which it was carried that produced goosebumps and, yes, even a tear or two.

(Image courtesy of AV Club)

So now that you are in your feels, what’s next? I have a couple other scenes that could either continue to put you in your misery (in the best way), or help soothe your soul before heading back out into the real world.

Crazy Rich Asians – The Wedding

Another Jon M. Chu film that set the box office on fire. Seeing this scene for the first time, I remember feeling emotional, then really emotional. It felt layered, which is exactly how I felt in the Wicked dance scene. You think you know where it is going, then it tugs your heart in a bit of a different path. One that ends up being even better. Emotional surprises like that are what makes movies (for me) “magic”.

Silver Linings Playbook – Dance Competition

A movie about imperfect (TOXIC) people coming together and doing even more imperfect (TOXIC) things. The cinematography gets the award here. The reactions across the board during the entire sequence is really strong and adds to the environment that only movies can really do well. Similar thing happens in Wicked with the single tear coming down Elphaba’s face and the hand gestures from Galinda.

West Side Story (2021) – The Mixer

I find Spielberg’s West Side Story basically perfect. It does not feel like a revisit to something already done, but a worthy follow-up with some stellar vocals. The entire scene in the gymnasium could have won a Short Film Oscar if entered. This is how a group number is done on film, and from Maestro Spielberg at the helm, no less.

Steel Magnolias – Funeral

One of my favorite things about Wicked is its humor, especially with Galinda. Her character shines when she leans in to the ditziness of it all. The humor never feels separate from her, and Olympia Dukakis pulling Shirley MacLaine forward saying “Here, hit HER!” is a perfect example of another piece of art where it works. It adds emotion so effectively we find ourselves both crying and laughing at the same time. Paging Inside Out!

The Color Purple (2023) – “The Color Purple”

One of the most powerful stories of sisterhood arguably ever. This musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s book took us to even deeper avenues of familial bond in a time of hopeless strife. What makes this scene stand out is the no-frills beauty of its emotions. A family singing together, reunited, uplifting each other. A reminder that it is okay to be lifted by others that mean everything to us.

Wicked is playing in theaters across the US. Read my review here.