Wicked: Why did Elphaba and Glinda stop being friends? Explained

Wicked, the 2024 musical fantasy film directed by Jon M. Chu, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Based on the iconic Broadway musical and the novel by Gregory Maguire, it tells the story of Elphaba and Glinda, two young women whose friendship shapes the events leading up to "The Wizard of Oz."

The film, the first of a planned duology, explores themes of identity, morality, and power, introducing audiences to the characters' backstories and the larger political landscape of Oz.

Elphaba and Glinda, the film's central characters, begin as opposites. Elphaba, ostracized for her green skin, is passionate and brave, while Glinda is popular and image-conscious.

Even with their different backgrounds, they develop a close relationship while attending Shiz University. As they grow into their respective roles—Elphaba as the infamous "Wicked Witch" and Glinda as the cherished "Good Witch," their friendship tests itself.

Elphaba and Glinda's friendship fractures due to their conflicting values and decisions. While Elphaba rejects the Wizard's corrupt administration to fight for justice, Glinda chooses to work within the system, prioritizing societal acceptance.

This moral divide is highlighted in a Reddit discussion where one fan asked,

"Why did Glinda never stand up for Elphaba?"

why did glinda not defend elphaba? byu/feminemenem inwicked

One of the followers replied,

"Deep down under all her vanity and bravado Glinda is a good person… but she doesn’t have Elphaba’s level of bravery"

Another fan replied,

"Glinda cares a lot about her reputation and being part of society, so she has to go into survival mode."

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers from the movie. Reader's discretion is advised.

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The relation between Elphaba and Glinda in Wicked

The friendship between Elphaba and Glinda forms the emotional core of Wicked. Their initial animosity at Shiz University softens as they bond over shared experiences.

Elphaba’s integrity and Glinda’s charm make them an unlikely but inseparable duo. However, their journey is marked by moments of tension, especially as their personal values diverge.

Elphaba's discovery of the Wizard and Madame Morrible's crimes serves as a pivotal moment. Glinda is hesitant to support Elphaba's revolt, as she wishes to preserve her social status. As Glinda continues to be in the public eye, this divergence intensifies, while Elphaba becomes a fugitive, resisting the system.

The scene where Elphaba sings Defying Gravity and flies away symbolizes this split—Elphaba fully embraces her role as an outcast, leaving Glinda behind.

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The plot of the film

Wicked: Part I establishes Elphaba’s transformation into the "Wicked Witch of the West" and Glinda’s rise as the "Good Witch." Starting at Shiz University, Elphaba's path is guided by her magical talents and will to shield talking animals from injustice, which attracts Madame Morrible and the Wizard. She quickly discovers, though, their actual plans to subjugate the animals and establish control.

Elphaba's refusal to cooperate results in her public branding as a "wicked witch," while Glinda becomes the face of the Wizard's administration. The relationship between them further deteriorates when Fiyero, a mutual love interest, decides to assist Elphaba in her escape. Their estrangement is further solidified by Madame Morrible's manipulation and the erosion of trust between them.

The film concludes with Elphaba feigning death in order to escape with Fiyero, who is transformed into the Scarecrow. Meanwhile, Glinda inherits the Grimmerie and remains in Oz. This establishes the foundation for part II, in which their narratives will be ultimately resolved.

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Wicked was theatrically released in the United States on November 22, 2024.