Woke People Are Stunningly Wrong About Wicked

[@erinwys216]

I left thinking it was mostly a movie about the evils of propaganda. Im glad you went back the original author's perspective, bc it makes complete sense in the context of the story

[@mapowey]

The story is about whatever you interpret it to be about. That’s the point of art, to create and share interpretations for the purpose of inciting conversation around all sorts of ideas and philosophies. Unfortunately this process is hard for a lot of people because they tie their ego to their interpretation. So instead of looking at things objectively and being curious about what other interpretations may have to offer, they tell everyone that their interpretation is the only correct one and that any other interpretation is foolish. It’s sad because usually “their” interpretation comes from a random person on the internet.

[@alaska4939]

I felt like it's about propaganda and how sometimes you're powerless to tell your story when the narrative is already set against you.

[@planarian]

⁠@@alaska4939 Exactly. Propaganda is not exclusive to any one side or another. People collaborating against you is simply daunting to overcome.

[@melissamurray8307]

Same here. Then again, I don’t paint most people who voted differently as me as the bad guy.

[@queenofprops]

​@alaska4939 I saw the stage version some years ago and this was my take as well.

[@ACompletelynormalMonster]

"A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion." Proverbs 18:2

[@SharlaNelson]

@@BolitaBalls not fiction. The Bible is alive and active.

[@AngelaItsme]

Amen​@@SharlaNelson

[@BolitaBalls]

@@SharlaNelson by that logic, so is the Quran.

[@BusinessSkrub]

Can't use logic to cultists, unfortunately lmao​@@BolitaBalls

[@Joy2Life333]

Spot on! I think this is an excellent verse for these days!

[@DJRazorgirl826]

I hate this crazy idea that just because I'm white I don't know how it feels to be "othered." Skin color isn't the only thing that separates people. Try being the most unliked person in a school of almost 1000 kids. Disliked because of your brother, because you won't just believe what your told and are willing to question, disliked for not towing the societal standard... I can go on and on. People with nuance are often kicked to the curb. And heaven forbid having any confidence and humility.

[@theWebWizrd]

Precisely. Sex, race, sexual orientation - these are reasons to to singled out as different, yes. So is being poor, being rich, not having the nice clothes other people do, not wearing makeup, wearing makeup, being a nerd, not being good at school, liking a particular actor, not liking a particular actor, being short, being tall - we humans have infinite ways to single people out and bully them.

[@shescraftea9107]

You're right. Hang in there, this is a rough time but you'll get through it.

[@turenam2772]

@@theWebWizrdit’s true, as a child, I was singled out both in elementary and junior high school because I was physically unwell (severe asthma) and nerdy .. go to high school and I absolutely flourished, my asthma got better. I became confident developed, great hobbies and had wonderful friends., going forward I had and have a great social life. But my heart always goes out to kids singled out and I DETEST bullies, to this day.

[@MsMsStephanie]

I feel you.

[@ReggieRedd2500]

U named all things you’re in control of. So unless you’re Michael Jackson then u not changing your skin color

[@jbx30001]

It's people who claim that they're good, or any way better than the rest of us, that you have to be wary of. This quote sums it up for me.

[@angelalewis3645]

!! Yep

[@Johnadams20760]

that is so true, master manipulative narcissist and physopahts are very good at doing this

[@Ika0713]

No, for sure. Never trust anyone who is constantly saying "I'm a decent person" or "I'm a good person" or "I'm a better person than you." Real good ppl see their own flaws and thus don't see themselves as good

[@marcellaacone7085]

Yep. How can you be sure about yourself being really good? And, in reverse, why you've to call yourself evil, if you are really evil? Actions can define what you are, and not one, but many, in a long period of time: in your whole life. How can you define your whole "carreer" in life, when you're still in the middle of it? Maybe one can say he or she is trying hard to be good... or evil. The best you can do is DO a thing, not telling the world you are something. Being a thing is not a self-identification.

[@Johnadams20760]

@@Ika0713I mean i have said that before, bu urually if i am asked how i feel about what I do or if someone accuses me of being bad. in defense. but i don't go around proclaiming it, i try to prove it over an dover again through actions. btw. my prevoius post on here which goes probably along with what you say regarding teh narcissit. i have had 2 people in the past 8 years that targed me as their person or one of their people to use and abuse, to try to manipulate me. and use me. one o fthem even semi stalked me after i walked away from them. but i noticed in both cases they were such big "church" people and constnatly talked about who good they are. in my case. i try my best to do good with my full intention although sometimes it may back fire. but i also need to set bounderies as well. i have learned this. as far as good though, i look at it as if my actions towards others is something that helps them in a positive way and makes them happy, than i figure it is likely good, if i do something that harms them or makes them feel awfl than it was probably bad. and if i do something of the latter i try to correct it. that is how i go about things personally. but we all grow and learn

[@kevincaruthers5412]

The actors have forgotten, the story is about the characters... Not them.

[@doid4354]

It is disappointing because I was interested in seeing the movie but the two lead actresses have such an egotistical way of talking about it that it puts me off. They come off as fake and that’s not a good way to sell something.

[@cheers2023]

​@doid4354 I feel the same way. I hear how great it is, but I don't want to support those two.

[@k_e_n_n]

​@@cheers2023 that's the high seas calling you /j

[@claudiabailey5302]

Just go and see the film and enjoy. Who cares what the actors think about it I don’t live their lives and i enjoy just as a piece of entertainment. Yes there are deeper themes especially what is wickedness. But it’s a brilliant movie.

[@kielbalondo4080]

@@doid4354just watch the movie then🤷🏻‍♀️ ?! You dont have to watch any of these interviews just enjoy the movie for itself

[@eddiewalkerjr5140]

Wonderfully done, Amala. That's why you're a hero. Understanding is EVERYTHING!

[@laniementz3970]

I am a Conservative and thought Wicked was an incredible movie. I thought it was about two Best friends losing each other - nothing about sex, color any of that woke agenda.

[@sarahcashburger1560]

The author of the book it's based on thinks it's woke and so do the actresses. You really can't get much clearer than that.

[@cathybumgarner839]

I agree

[@ASMRyouVEGANyet]

Yet people (conservatives) are claiming it's woke

[@ASMRyouVEGANyet]

@@sarahcashburger1560 well why not judge for yourself?

[@laniementz3970]

@@sarahcashburger1560 Nothing woke about it. Just people like yourself, who makes something out of nothing.

[@michellescott1211]

I love this woman. She is so articulate and knowledgeable in all her content. Love everything she posts. Xx

[@sarahcashburger1560]

I really like Amala, but I think she's totally wrong on this one. The reason the left love these kinds of 'subversions' is that they love the idea that things that are labeled bad, that have always been labeled bad, are good. 90% of all their movements are saying 'this bad thing that we know is bad is good actually'. It's about this fantasy that every bad actor was labeled as such because the 'evil white man' just wanted to hold onto power. The actresses think it's about woke, the author clearly does, it's woke, there's no way around it.

[@lotti9576]

Agree I find myself watching her even when I am not that interested in giving wokeism any attention because at times it just gets petty.

[@gabeo9474]

That's a microaggression. You just microaggressed her. 🤡

[@drdassler]

Articulate? That's not patronising. 😄

[@hismom5600]

.....I'm going to write a book called "Compliments we give black people that aren't actually compliments."😊 Why shouldn't she be articulate?

[@MimosaRose]

Every villain is a hero in their own mind, it’s all about perspective.

[@gnericgnome4214]

But villians are still objectively villainous; what they think of themselves is irrelevant. Hitler thought he was a savior of his people. Let's make a movie where he's the victim, shall we? Because it's all about perspective.

[@MimosaRose]

@ that’s the point though isn’t it? You and I can objectively look at Hitler’s actions and say, “ Evil, he’s a villain “, but Hitler thought he was a hero saving his country. How we view others can be both objective and subjective, but how we view ourselves can be primarily subjective. How I view myself may be completely different from how a stranger sees me.

[@yomilala8929]

Yeah, even the Wizard thinks of himself as a hero but that doesn't make him a hero

[@gnericgnome4214]

@@yomilala8929 no, the original story makes him a hero.

[@arneilmarquez]

I once had a boss who accused me of not doing work and slacking. She called HR on me twice. And for the longest time I thought to myself I must be doing something wrong and I tried to do better. Then one day, during one of our weekly arguments, I had enough. And I let her have it. Then her facial expressions and emotions shifted and she said. "I'm really a nice person. I really am. I just want the best from you." That's when I knew what evil looked like.

[@ryanparker4996]

Moral busybodies are the worst kind of tyrants because they opress you with the approval of their own conscience

[@NaeK188]

Ugh, bad leadership is such an issue in organisations. She sounds narcissistic with the “I’m a nice person” talk. 😢

[@lolAnnMarie182]

I’m currently unemployed and looking for a new job. What you said is exactly what I’m worried about. There are people out there who are absolute turds just because their title or position allows them to be. So glad you stood up for yourself. It’s not worth being belittled over and over when you’re not doing anything wrong. I needed to see your comment, as silly as that sounds! ❤❤

[@herooflight7931]

I had someone similar, she was a narcissistic idiot

[@ravens-crypt]

If they really wanted the best of you they would set down with you and work on a way that works for you and the company as a hole .

[@kaylahensley1581]

I agree, I would say a big theme of this musical/movie is about scapegoating and finger pointing and that a good lesson for everyone is to look inward before making blanket judgments about others.

[@JuneJaneb4]

But since they promote it like it's woke and even people from the left say that this movie is such so any sucess of this movie would be a promotion of these ideas. Personally I'm not a fan of musicals, don't know why many people in America like it, but anyway. Maybe it's a bit boring for them to sit through the usual plot so they like more "action" on the screen. Like singing and dancing.

[@waitingfortheasteroid3657]

This how I also interpreted the story

[@detectivefiction3701]

Junejane4. As a diehard musical theatre (also opera) fan, I completely disagree with you. Sometimes I actually get bored watching movies and plays that have no song-and-dance component.

[@JuneJaneb4]

@@detectivefiction3701 This is exactly what I wrote. That some people are bored without it.

[@kaylahensley1581]

@@detectivefiction3701 I like musicals where the songs move the plot forward or give valuable insight into the characters. The older musicals with “dream ballets” and long song numbers that only function because the lead actors were known for their singing voices seem a bit gratuitous to me.

[@mastermind4690]

Women of any race can play Elphaba.

[@bricaaron3978]

They can, but that doesn't mean they would be right for the part. It's really tiresome to hear people make such a big deal about race --- except when they turn around and claim that race is meaningless. Races are _aesthetically_ different. You can't just substitute one for the other, just like Dr. Dillamond can't be played by a sheep.

[@joshuacoley7453]

​@@bricaaron3978 ​bro compared human races to completely different species, and even so dr dillamond the goat was played by a human on stage. this is theatre, elphaba is green, im fine with whoever is cast as long as they have the voice and acting skills to do the job (there are very few people in the world who can play such a demanding role to begin with), the rest doesnt matter. though enlighten me, since you care about the race of actors more than their talent, which race do you think should play elphaba?

[@horaciosalazargomez9488]

@@joshuacoley7453 In my case, anyone but someone who complains about a fanart poster of her and lectures people in a political voice about how things should be done "correctly" and cries in every single interview that she appears in.

[@gnericgnome4214]

@@joshuacoley7453 bro, she referred to "both species" when speaking of humans and animals... "animal" is not a species. Humans are animals. Races are a subset of the human species, just as varieties are a subset of flowers. To suggest that a rose and a daisy, different varieties, are interchangeable because both are flowers is patently absurd.

[@joshuacoley7453]

@@horaciosalazargomez9488 you can have issues with an actor/actresses character yes, which is valid, but the argument they were making is that only a certain race should play elphaba which has nothing to do with character

[@waitingfortheasteroid3657]

What is even more ironic is that if you ask them what makes someone fascist, they won’t be able to answer

[@twelfthdoctor4402]

Fascism is a far-right, authoritarian, and ultranationalist political ideology and movement, characterized by a dictatorial leader, centralized autocracy, militarism, forcible suppression of opposition, belief in a natural social hierarchy, subordination of individual interests for the perceived good of the nation or race, and strong regimentation of society and the economy.

[@barnacleboi2595]

Indubitably. The reason is because of poo poo pee pee.

[@marhawkman303]

it's just a slur that gets tossed at people.... not a real word to them.

[@kokotiger1313]

@@marhawkman303they use it to try and silence people or turn others against the one they are tossing the term at. They don't care what it actually means, they just know it's something bad

[@dakyne51pa]

Or even worse, they will describe the behavior the Lef5 is currently engaging in, and they will approve of.

[@Chloeyboey217]

I really want this to go viral. So many people need to hear the sound truth, that is down the middle of both camps opinions. Thank you Amala.

[@sergeyking343]

I agree with you about alot needing to hear Amala's take on this movie . I just feel that the vast majority of people who need to hear this either won't see content like this or if they do they will choose to ignore it because it goes against their own narrative and that of their political leanings, (🤔 the ones who so loudly talk about love, peace, acceptance and so on yet are so very extreme and hateful and as soon as someone questions their points explode in rage and do their best to dehumanize their opponents)

[@Eshu666]

Down the middle while always ignoring the spears from the right to call out the left. The RIGHT elected a bigot who can never be criticized by his own. That's the guy calling everyone but him and his, wicked. Just like hitler.

[@deedragriffie7983]

Wow wow wow!! By far, the best commentary I’ve heard on Wicked, with intention of spurring critical thinking and introspection rather than propaganda and rhetoric! We have so much to learn from each other if we’ll just listen.

[@Eshu666]

"I agree so it's not propaganda"

[@masonguthrie1257]

@@Eshu666to be fair she gave two examples of how calling people names turn them into that from both sides. Obviously she is more conservative but she did make a point to not try and make it one sided and that everyone can do better.

[@angelagrazia8499]

Dear Amala, of all the dozens of videos I must have seen of yours, this one was the most profound. Asking us to question ourselves. Thank you.

[@Ika0713]

There was a time when this was the norm in society. I wish we could go back to that. To explore messages universally without making it about "a side." Division is truly a cancer

[@Hewylewis]

Two ten-year-old boys killed a 2-year-old?! Oh my god! That poor kid! What the hell was wrong with those two boys?

[@16icecream]

@@nthgthlove her channel. And what the hell is wrong with them? Well that was the question that made wicked

[@yesterdayitrained]

He was killed in 1993

[@narniaslan47]

Apparently they didn't have the best home life, but that doesn't excuse anything they did. What bothered me is they were witnessed by dozens of people mistreating this toddler and no one did any thing

[@foxwoodjones9831]

And bc of Britain’s laws. The boys have been released and given new identities. One of the boys has continued to cause trouble, but the other one has seemed to have reformed himself. The details of the case are so horrific. That baby suffered so much.

[@Hewylewis]

@@foxwoodjones9831 Oh good lord. Well, at least one of them repented. Still though, that was heartbreaking and insane.

[@Wandering-wk2ys]

I know I can always rely on Amala for a balanced and well adjusted take ❤ Her videos never miss

[@natasha83196]

I loved the film. As a black woman, parts of Elphaba’s life really resonated with me. But to your point there was so much more to it than that. Glenda’s progression from a self-centered person to a kind, loving person was a powerful story of friendship. And yes, there were some themes everyone can relate to… like the idea that those in power are playing the regular folks (of all races) for their own personal gain. Also, the way these forces can turn a kind and generous, but extremely talented person like Elphaba into a wicked witch. I plan to see it again.

[@trenae77]

You encapsulate this beautifully. It is not wrong to ‘find ourselves’ in a work; finding aspects of a work that we can use to relate to the world that was created. It’s when people take the work and pick and pull until they mold it into a narrow representation of their world view that becomes problematic.

[@Lynn-kh5rs]

And that is the beautiful part of Elphaba's story. There are so many things that people of all races can identify with. As a white woman I was always (and still am) the 'odd one out', even in my own race. That was really hard to deal with as a child but as an adult I learned that although I might not fit the expected role or "norm it's okay to be me as long as I do no harm to anyone else.

[@tepperleen]

She became a kind loving person and friend until she realized she had so much to lose, the love and adoration from Madam Morrible. That was more important to her than her friend, who was fighting evil.

[@morningivy]

I feel like a lot of hecklers will skip over this comment because they don't want to open their minds to logical positive reviews of it 😂

[@geekylove3603]

Amala is still ignoring the Pete Hegseth and Matt Gaetz issues. She appears to be appropriately embarrassed. No need to @ me. Just take your medicine.

[@intheknowidaho]

I'm SO glad you pulled up those Gregory McGuire quotes! Hadn't heard them before. Great conversation pieces.

[@natquesenberry6368]

As a Christian, I appreciate the call to introspection. Jesus taught that every human is born with an internal desire for wickedness, and that all people are guilty ( to various degrees) of being wicked. Personally, I find that it is easier to complain about other people being wicked than it is to admit my own guilt to God, and others.

[@megangosiak1489]

It brings me to the verse that says "before you point out the splinter in your neighbor's eye, pull the plank from your own. Where we need to realize we aren't better. We are all flaws and need to be treating others how we want to be treated.

[@natquesenberry6368]

@megangosiak1489 true!

[@vivianna_diaz]

💯 agreed

[@vivianna_diaz]

💯 agreed

[@solohagopreguntas]

Amen!

[@Hechab]

Comparing the price of a movie ticket to the price of eggs over the span of 4 years is actually crazy wow.

[@lovetobe6118]

Its likely from people who only go through one egg carton over two weeks. My family goes through two dozen eggs a day.

[@travisjazzbo3490]

Man... Amala you have come a LONG, LONG WAY!!! Congratulations on all of your success. You deserve it!

[@morrisonscott1139]

"Judge Claud Frollo longed to purge the world of vice and sin. He saw corruption everywhere except within." - Clopin, The Hunchback of Notre Dame Doesn't have much to do with the vid, I figured that this quote was the woke mindset in a nutshell.

[@Stellamarie_7]

I love that movie

[@drakean8]

And the stage play ❤

[@Ika0713]

Best Disney movie by far

[@angiecas8180]

Yes! I am so glad you brought this into discussion! The book was hard for me to get through, but it was well worth it. Frollo is probably the scariest type of villain out there.

[@maggiethedog9113]

@@angiecas8180 Frollo from the book is very different, boo.

[@gregorykobb2420]

"The road to hell is paved with good intentions" is a proverb that means good intentions are not enough to ensure a positive outcome. It's a reminder that people must take action and ensure that their actions align with their intentions.

[@chiqa2448]

Sure I meant well well look where meant well endeeeeeed

[@thecensoredmuscle563]

The intentions are always bad. It's just covered up with icing to make the intentions look pretty, but the results prove that the intentions were always bad.

[@RayannaHull]

Not actions, not intentions. Empathy and really wanting to be good and fair to everyone

[@justkat9148]

10:53 Y'all, what she means is, (if you're talking the musical and movie) someone disagree's with the president of Oz and trying to do good for animals that are losing rights. And being labeled as "wicked" for that. And like she said, being labeled as that over and over again until the people actually start to make you LOOK wicked. So it becomes true to them. (Spoilers if you haven’t seen the musical) The song "no good deed" in act 2 is when Elphaba tries to save Fiyero, but fails (she thinks), and according to the wiki actually becomes "wicked" but doesn't even after she says she does. Because she decides to not attempt at a good deed anymore because "no good deed goes unpublished." You're labeled as "wicked" for trying to do a good deed. And just runs off with that as a persona. You can read the lyrics to no good deed if it helps.

[@lethalchickengames1776]

Your thoughts are so insightful! I was thinking along the same lines but definitely not nearly as eloquently as you. Thank you for this video. It was great!!

[@TheAmalaEkpunobi]

Aw thank you so much, that means a lot!

[@mpcygan]

Wow! You explained a topic that’s hard to pin down really well. Brings so much clarity to today’s labeling and all the pressures experienced in the school environment. What really hit home for me was when you mentioned “toxic masculinity” which has been thrown around for so long. Your video helped give me some needed philosophical foundations. Thank you!

[@betelgeuseredstone9082]

I’m a Republican, but I am not fascist. That’s wrong any levels. Enough is enough. And I am a Christian and does my female friends.

[@gnericgnome4214]

if you're a Republican, you _can't_ be a fascist. Fascism is a collectivist ideology, and so belongs on the far left with the rest of the collectivist ideologies.

[@Burns_RED]

"Fascism" means literally nothing anymore

[@JerseyGurl4Life]

There are a dozen other words and phrases you can add to that list

[@SuperChicken666]

Fascist's new definition is anyone who disagrees with the Far Left.😮

[@barnacleboi2595]

Literally means nothing? So if a cop pulls me over and asks me what I'm doing, do I answer by saying: "Good aftermorning, Mr. Doctor professor ocifer. Im doing fascism."

[@kiikachu]

A lot of words don’t mean anything now a days. 😂

[@RacingSnails64]

Not literally, but it's definitely being used as a slander and so its meaning has been diluted in the minds of certain people that they fail to recognize what true fascism actually is.

[@almedham4216]

I couldn't get past the green skin, but not for racial implications. I thought the green was some kind of metaphor referencing children who live in families without love - she was apparently the product of her mother's affair. Her father didn't love her not because she was green, but because her being green meant his wife didn't love him, and her self-esteem even after she leaves home reflects this. She believed she was unworthy of love not because of how she looked but because of what she was. Hearing the origin of green in the Emerald City, green being the Wizard's favorite color, also fits - the Emerald City is the Wizard's own illigitimate child in a sense. Of course, I know I'm wrong and it doesn't actually mean anything, but it doesn't stop me from trying. I'm about as far as one could get from being a theater kid, and my opinion of Wicked being a vaguely chaotic story certainly didn't change with the movie. But it makes ya think. Makes ya think.

[@magicevie1]

I think you raise a really interesting point about the character of Elphaba. As you said, perhaps she has a terrible self image because she is emotionally rejected by her own parents. The product of an affair, she represents something that her father cannot face, so he rejects her instead. She has been ostracised by the people who are supposed to love her the most. She doesn’t love herself in the beginning of the story, or believe she is worthy of being loved by others. Elphaba is essentially the victim of emotional abuse by her parents. I think this is the true nexus of her character development. The green is a symbol of her rejection and the way emotional abuse has affected her, more than necessarily being just about race per se. That’s my interpretation anyway…. I’m not saying questions of racial identity within the Wicked allegory are not valid, they are. But I agree with you Amala, it goes much deeper than that. Great video, thank you for presenting this viewpoint. I am seeing mostly only the one narrow interpretation that you mention from most content creators on this film. I’m a big fan of the stage show and care about this story, so I appreciate your attention to detail and research. Very interesting comments section too! Thank you!

[@aliaab123]

I think it's an interesting reading and I never thought about it like that.

[@RoseBaggins]

An interesting look into what green symbolizes in this movie ... but knowing the original stories, there's more to it.

[@Zzyzzyx]

Fascinating interpretation! Thanks.

[@ClaireSpace25]

Please read the books! You're actually on the right track in your suppositions.

[@sgh7778]

If we want to say Trump is analogous to the fake wizard we can also make the argument he is much like Elphaba. Where the masses are manipulated to thinking he is wicked when he is not. It can honestly go both ways. Honestly, I’m surprise people aren’t talking enough about how this movie also showed that people will look for a fake villain in the name of unity. There are so many nuggets of gold in this film and it’s not the agendas of both right and left. Thanks Amala for sharing this insightful perspective.

[@Kaitlynn-nw7yl]

There are so many nuggets of gold. One of my favorite nuggets is the censoring that goes on when Dr. Dillimar talks about animals loosing their voices.

[@joe-mf8ps]

Wow good point. Sort of how trans issues have become the forefront of rightwing media. Even though trans athletes are such a small amount of the population, everyone can get behind it while we let those in power let all of their friends in

[@adrian-se7sj]

Elphaba was trying to help the marginalized group of talking animals, Trump has never shown any empathy for any marginalized group

[@joe-mf8ps]

That's the plot of the movie. The Wizard has convinced everyone that Elphaba and the Animals are the ones manipulating the masses, that Elphaba is the one that is wicked. It's an allegory to the absurdity of real societies. Some people genuinely believe the words of rich and powerful man just because they give the people an enemy in the name of unity. (Animal/immigrants) It's a tale as old as time however. We know the rich like their scapegoats to hide their influence (Trump hiding the Epstein files and blaming minorities of trafficking). Classic facet of fascism. "The enemy is incapable of thinking for themselves given their lack of values, yet they are simultaneously much more advanced than us and are destroying the state. I am the greatest leader in the world who will stop any harm, but there's a lot of harm happening right now from immigrants." Just as Trump and other billionaires are in control of the world yet blames minorities for those consequences in the name of unity. So does the wizard. Glad yourself and others are able to see through the veil. The idea of the most powerful wizard/man in the world being the victim of minorities is hilarious. But people genuinely believe the poor people/Animals are the aggressors and the rich elite are the actual victims 🤣🤣🤣

[@haze19931]

​@@adrian-se7sjYou're kidding, right?🥱🤦🏼‍♀️

[@johnnynations452]

I'm so sick of everything being about race.

[@done9137]

It's the only card the democrats have left to play

[@gregorykobb2420]

Lets start the "CUZ" movement The BIBLE says we are one family Science says we are only one tenth of one percent different Some geneticist says we all can be trace to the same mother So with that; lets us start calling each other “CUZ” Maybe when all Americans start calling each other "CUZ", then WE, can end this mess Our oath to the “CUZ” movement: Will not summit to Identity Politics or Intersectionality Will look at people for Exceptionalism Will be Exceptional our self's, then share Let's all Celebrate each other's Culture, Food and Song Let's show the World that America is an Exceptional Nation My Theme Music for the "CUZ" Celebration party kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXjam5mLe96MbK8

[@maggief1851]

Me too

[@jessicareynolds8011]

Definitely

[@funsizedazzy6708]

Yea imagine if the white man never made it a thing race didn’t exist till they made it a thing.

[@UncleMikeDrop]

Tunnel vision can be a crazy thing.

[@janicesmith2475]

We need to STOP LABELING PEOPLE. Period.

[@SandyMeeshell]

Yup.. I think THAT is the point 🙏🏽

[@evap.5121]

exactly

[@timothymills2934]

Nobody is labeling you a moron for saying that.

[@peterlawson8040]

Who's period?.

[@TheChannelJ1]

aren't conservatives always labeling things woke?

[@bnelson5378]

I just hate how wicked maligns the lovely original story of The Wizard of Oz film. To me the Wicked Witch of the West will always be the “bad guy.” Glinda was never Galinda. The Wizard is just a man who got stuck in Oz.

[@carolinewilkinson3862]

Yeah that's fair, but just keep in mind Wicked is not Canon to the original world. It's technically a fanfiction, a fan wrote it not the original author, so it's not canon to the Wizard of Oz at all.

[@rsc5721]

Cant you separate both books in your mind and appreciate each one for what they are? It's not too hard

[@carl13579]

Technically, the film is not canon to the books either. Just evaluate each work on its own merits.

[@kendallrivers1119]

Let's keep in mind that The Wizard of Oz wasn't real it was all Dorothy's dream. Wicked is basically a what if type story that has nothing to do with the actual Wizard of Oz. It might be a good play and movie but it's not like it ever had a chance of coming close to the iconic Wizard of Oz that'll always be a classic.

[@msk-qp6fn]

It's basically fanfiction or retelling. Nothing serious. If some of us can live with the Malificent movies existing, so you can with the existence of Wicked.

[@thenerdupstairs5705]

I saw Wicked and wondered why ALL the gay people were being mean to the woman of color 😂😂😂

[@BusinessSkrub]

LOL sounds like the average twitter addict to me

[@billcorn2]

Because the movie doesn’t take place in our world. In the land of Oz, being green is worse than being gay, and being an animal is even worse than being green. Completely different social hierarchy than our world.

[@EllieGrant-x6u]

I liked that fact. Shows the reality that everyone can be sheep especially the people who go: slayyyyyy. Saying this as a queer person

[@rjbiker66]

​@@EllieGrant-x6u what's a queer person?

[@moonamoonz]

The rainbow people are the biggest bullies there is. Many gay men are sexist towards women.

[@reneelancaster8714]

Extremely well laid out and communicated. Thank you for your take on this movie!

[@amandavuong3925]

Amazing commentary thank you.

[@blakemauney]

Amala, I am more enamored with your eloquent words and intelligence. It is so refreshing to see heart-felt ideas expressed with such passion. Keep up your work because you have found your niche in life.... communicating to the masses. Much love and Merry Christmas to you ~

[@bellferguson4393]

Ngl, a saying our former local vicar always used to say came to mind: When you point a finger at someone, there are always three fingers pointing back at yourself.

[@CatBahptista]

☝️

[@juliannacolombo5584]

I kept thinking she was going to say this, too! My mom always said this . ❤✌️

[@useyourwandbro]

Watching the film in theatre, I felt it was so important that it came out when it did, with everything happening in the world. It's so important to talk about and understand, thank you for talking about this.

[@thejonpastor]

Unfortunately, people are so incapable of understanding anything outside their own perspective that they won’t understand any of this.

[@channahnoyb4803]

Black people are NOT marginalized in the US other than by their own communities and by themselves by putting themselves in a box. Just like the actress did by saying she’s queer blablabla.

[@BolitaBalls]

@@channahnoyb4803 me when I’ve never met a black person

[@nedflanders4158]

Exactly I wanna know how they talk about being marginalised when walking into a room, when in reality they have NEVER experienced that.

[@ghiggs8389]

@@nedflanders4158 Its projection. Every room with people in it ends up looking at a newcomer into said room upon entering. Everyone who enters a room experiences the same thing. The rest is interpretation. If you don't feel like you belong, well then you don't, but that's because of you, not because of the other people in the room.

[@RacingSnails64]

Lol if only it were that simple... Black people are held down but not by the government. We literally had a black president, have black politicians, police officers, doctors, celebrities, etc. So clearly black people can succeed. "Systemic oppression" doesn't mean there's active laws that target black people for being black, but the effects of segregation didn't go away just because it was made illegal. Black people weren't *allowed* to progress their communities to the same level as white Americans were during that time. They were handicapped. And then racists have the gall to say "I guess black people are just inherently inferior," which is disgusting.

[@jamingrythm584]

Study sociology to understand that. Rather than disregarding people's experience, try to understand their perspective

[@emmamason5383]

I love this take!!!!!! I know so many people have been calling it “Woke” but I really want to watch it.

[@LuCa-ht2jl]

What i hate about is book author actually thinks this an original work, when in reality is fan fiction. Sorry but if you are basing your story on the characters of another author with an alternative world, its fan fiction.

[@EseanB]

💯

[@HuneyBeeMyName]

The OG Fifty Shades. 🤣🤣

[@BolitaBalls]

It’s giving the Bible

[@ArmandoWheatcliffe]

​@@BolitaBalls- seen you twice, the Bible is a collection of Jewish literature and their history. Their stories are not being forced on you.

[@msk-qp6fn]

​@@ArmandoWheatcliffe i mean i disagree with how it is not pushed into my face/forced onto me with how some christians go about their belief....does that mean i will go about saying the bible is fanfiction, no because it's not, it's just an anthology of embellished anecdotes of the experience of the people of mesopotamia and north africa

[@dmnapier7]

It's funny how they're saying everything about Trump being the bad guy running the show. Yet, the Wizard is the president of Oz. Who's been the vice president of America for the past 4 years?

[@Charlieisdeaddead]

The original Broadway came out during the bush presidency. It's literally direct attack on bush. so y'all bunch of morons if you think this movie is not woke and not a attack on weird republicans and their policy 😂

[@lawrencejosephglatt8185]

The book and the show were written decades ago. Why do you think it’s a comment on the last four years?

[@yomilala8929]

Trump was also president for 4 years and he will be president very soon. So I really don't get your point. You don't become the wizard just because you are the president, you become the wizard based on how likely you are to support the persecution and scapegoating of innocent minorities ;)

[@katyuha555]

You don't know who was the vice president huh. ​@@lawrencejosephglatt8185

[@briannebanning2008]

This is where my mind went with the movie, too! Calling those wicked who are actually trying to do good and stand up. The part that hit me was when they started projecting ’she is wicked’ across the city! Then people believe it because it is what they heard. Made me think of the media… thank you for your thoughts.

[@chuckskillz5184]

I am not a conservative, and I do not like Trump, but Amala is absolutely cooking with this video! The far left is absolutely not as high and mighty as they claim to be!

[@sweaterweatherlady]

She cooked, baked, served, and still washed the dishes with perfection. ❤ Including the author's own words helped clear up the morals the story (book or musical) told.

[@tepperleen]

I’m not a conservative either and I’m not a fan with of Trump but I voted for him. Because we are fighting something far more evil than Trump. And that to me is what this movie was about.

[@marhawkman303]

@@tepperleen yeah... trying to push a corrupt former DA to Prez? nOPE!!!

[@GioMa-c6r]

Lo spero per voi. Sta distruggendo L' America, sta distruggendo L' Italia, sta distruggendo L' Europa.

[@joewoodchuck3824]

What does Trump have to do with the movie? I don't know why you would even say that, unless you wanted to have an excuse for saying that you oppose him.

[@Elizabelle79]

THANK YOU! Finally a take that actually looks at the context of the piece.

[@ericgoldstein4734]

Amala, Thank you for the intelligent analysis.

[@Pixietra70]

Hit of truth-Anyone watch Equalizer 3? In the movie, the doctor (Enzo)who treats Denzel’s character (Robert) asks him if he’s a good man; Robert responds, “I don’t know.” They revisit that idea later when Robert asks Enzo what he thinks about Robert. Enzo says, “A bad man would have immediately claimed he was a good man…Only a good man would have said he didn’t know.” Food for thought 🤔

[@natasha83196]

Another excellent movie.

[@sexyblackcharlery]

Love Denzel, especially in Malcolm X

[@misskimbaby76]

Thats the problem with most people today...they make evrything political!! Why cant a movie just be entertaining?!? Thank you for speaking to this! 👏🏻👏🏻

[@viajante01]

The theme of the movie is literally about politics... You can't just pretend like it's not because it's good. Movies can be entertaining and political at the same time.

[@rsc5721]

Wicked is inherently political. The whole story is about facing discrimination for your skin colour, propaganda...

[@gnericgnome4214]

a movie can be entertaining if it's made to entertain. If it's made to push a political agenda... this is what you get.

[@alexp8764]

Politics is part of everyday life

[@beac7089]

Out of all the wicked reviews I watched this one is by far the best ! Right on point and well spoken 🙌

[@tpuggy772]

I do not comment often. Just wanted to say that during your part at the “wicked” and “Hitler” comparison, my dog started growling. Never heard that. Thought it was amusing. Have a great day.

[@missylks1239]

That's because I'm fairly sure it's incorrect. I believe it's called Wicked because the main character is the WICKED Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz.

[@kal6576]

Erick in one breath says blak woman not accepted in many spaces but in next breath says that she got to do a million dollar movie and do whatever the hell she wanted in the role and have a diva life. Amazing.

[@sexyblackcharlery]

Grow up

[@Katrifairy]

Yet again you hit the nail on the head 🙌🏻 and thank you for talking about the author or wicked and the origins it is so interesting and makes the story even more amazing!

[@abbiexx1953]

The James Bulger case is HUGE here in the UK and the question of evilness is one that always surrounds it. I leaned about it in History class and then later in psychology class, even before this I knew about it. Of course there are cases of murder all around the world but here in the UK, local cases are REALLY well known- and most of them involve children. The author of wicked is far from the first person to ask this question when on the topic of James Bulger but I’m pleasantly surprised to hear that the message has spread to the US because James’ story is so tragic.

[@tamaragibson5659]

I lived in the Los Angeles area at the time of James’ murder and found out whilst driving. I had to pull over because I could not see through my tears. It was the most heartbreaking event I had ever heard and it still haunts me to this day. I can’t imagine how 10-year olds could conceive of that level of evil and will never understand it.

[@crystalmethany6286]

I was born 2000 so it’s before my time a bit, but I recently watched a documentary on the case, and yeah it’s a tough one. It leaves you with more questions and an even more blurry concept of wickedness / nature vs nurture. Rest In Peace James.

[@phoebegreig6523]

I’m the same age as the killers. That story came on the news and me and my mum were watching it in silence. Then my mum turned to me and said “Could you do something like that?” and my response was “No, I’m not that stupid.” ..Those two idiots should have been jailed for life! I don’t care that they were 10, they knew EXACTLY what they were doing!

[@crystalmethany6286]

@@phoebegreig6523 I feel the exact same way! When I was ten I was singing along to « I kissed a girl » by Katy Perry thinking I was being bad. Lo and behold turn out i was gay lmao 😂anyways, its just something doesn’t feel right about putting away children for life, glad I don’t have to make those decisions.

[@pathacker4963]

Kermit was green and I have always loved him. Perhaps casting should have reversed the actresses roles. But I think the intention was to reinforce stereotypes.

[@AutismThespian1993]

You bring up a good point. It’s like people’s opinions ring out until they are accepted as truth. I think a lot of people ,regardless of what their beliefs are, miss the point of that with wicked. Also, it is possible to see both Glinda and Elphaba in ourselves and not judge them bc they are strong and flawed in their own way.

[@mansiondave23]

That’s why people that withstand the labeling attacks and stay true are celebrated in the end. Giving into hate and allowing it to change you should not be celebrated because it actually encourages more wickedness.

[@AnimalPuff]

12:17 as an aside, I do think that the demonization of masculinity has also had another effect, which is convincing men to abandon it. To some extreme, it could even lead to saying you're not a man at all

[@geepytee]

Appreciate the nuanced commentary, great video!

[@aprillancaster9090]

Thank you, Amala for expanding upon Gregory Maguire's message/intent when creating such a marvelous series that I love and educating everyone about it. I never knew his reasons for expanding the world of Oz in the way he did but have thoroughly enjoyed his take on that world and its characters. He gives them all so much more depth than that expressed in the original book. I'm sure Gregory would be happy that you're helping to spread his true intent/meaning he wanted conveyed via his novels. As someone who has read all of the Wicked Years novels and has enjoyed listening to the music from the Wicked musical(although I never had the pleasure of seeing it), I really look forward to seeing Gregory Maguire's book and message come to life via this film.

[@sailormean1743]

The musical doesn’t even have the same message as the book. For starters, they leave out the beastiality.

[@irritatedkitty7301]

Reading the comments from the left it sounds like they missed the real message. So by labeling the right as evil, they are just turing others in Elphaba. That's the message.

[@matthewlamont3112]

I was 12/13 when Jamie Bulger died, it was messed up. One of the culprits served his sentence and disappeared off of the radar, the other got busted with a laptop full of unsavoury material relating to under 10s and is thankfully back inside.

[@sitcomchristian6886]

I really can't look into that story, it's so awful.

[@toystorylover5257]

I agree with what you’re saying! Just because Elphaba’s skin is green it doesn’t mean it’s about her skin. It’s about maybe this person is not wicked and he or she is misunderstood and interpreted as wicked. Thank you for putting this out there! Maybe One Million Moms will watch this and change their minds. I hope they do because they’re missing out on a lot of content. They need to consider your perspective of the movie. Thanks!

[@anonygrazer3234]

Thank you, Amala, for a clear and concise take. You brought up several points I hadn't thought of yet.

[@meredithbaber188]

Omg I loved Wicked on Broadway 😮 as a theatre kid I always felt like this is where I belong.

[@ВасилисаБасманова-ф8ч]

This is the best of your video I've watched. Mind-blowing. Thank you for your deep analysis!!

[@drdassler]

Dear black people, not everybody is obsessed by race & we don't all treat people differently depending on their ancestry.

[@dravguitao7265]

Awww. You must live in your own world and not the real one. Must be incredible to live in Delulu Land with the munchkin people.

[@evangelenesurgenor2263]

100%

[@renaakatsuki9960]

Dear poster, that was a strange comment to make towards a whole race of close to a billion people of different backgrounds. The focus should be on the extremists on political parties that try to force racial groups to be the mascot of their narratives.

[@drdassler]

@@renaakatsuki9960 everything has to be so simple for people like you. It's pathetic.

[@drdassler]

@@renaakatsuki9960 You don't even realise you should be embarrassed with that response. 🤡

[@smosmo4617]

My new favorite Amala vid. So eloquent, what a brilliant young woman.Provoked self reflection immediately. Something true wisdom cultivates.

[@P0sitive_vibes_0nly]

Who tf talks like this?

[@hannahjones8115]

Why wouldn't she be eloquent? Work on your bais.

[@smosmo4617]

@hannahjones8115 hahahahahah, find a hobby .

[@WeepingValkyrie]

The best analysis of film messaging. This is why I love you, you can see from both perspectives. Which is such a rare trait these days. At least online.

[@janefan1216]

Great breakdown, and using the motivations of the author, which sheds a lot of light onto his intentions behind writing Wicked. Thank you!

[@thehardercandy]

Very insightful perspective on the film. We could all use some introspection and look at what needs to be worked on within ourselves, and showing others kindness and mercy because we are all humans who fall short. Thank you for this video.

[@ReginaConnell]

GIRL!! You looked AMAZING on Megyn Kelly Sis!!

[@emmanuelalbach]

Good in depth anlayzis, Amala. Thanks

[@charleneWL]

You’re awesome ! My son who’s on the autism spectrum loves musicals and he loved the movie and sang every song . As far as I’m concerned it was long but it held my attention . I feel like the movie is speaking about how propaganda and trying to fit in can truly cause hate . It also touches on friendship and standing on your truth. It also touches on the animal oppression ! It was long but cool for me !

[@HeatherMariePetersen]

This movie is giving textbook weird Disney propaganda.

[@erikwilson5001]

Well done, Amala. I hope your positive, introspective message becomes part of the cultural conversation.

[@thedivide3688]

Wicked was written in 1995 before the world became woke LOL

[@SquishyGrayMatter]

Yes written by the genius lady who wrote My So Called Life. Helped define my teen years😅

[@barrettorth8413]

The term 'woke' wasn't mainstream back then, but its underlying ideology of mar>

[@bunchberry9957]

Wicked was originally meant to be released in 2013, to celebrate the show's 10th anniversary. It would have been so much better if it was released back then, because the media wasn't as toxic and you rarely saw comments moaning about everything being woke and fascist. It's so utterly pathetic. Wicked is an incredible film and stage show and the characters are so well written. And Ethan Slater (Boq) does not deserve all the hate he's getting. He did not cheat on his wife. They separated before he got together with Ariana. I've seen all his interviews and he seems to be a really nice person. People should stop believing disinformation and read up actual facts before accusing someone.

[@thedivide3688]

@@SquishyGrayMatter Wicked was written by a man Gregory Maguire

[@jamescarr1265]

@@SquishyGrayMatterwow My so-called life was a fantastic show cancelled too soon, same goes for Freaks and geeks. Claire Danes is an amazing actress.

[@RobinSueWho]

I saw these points back when Maleficent movie came out. They took an evil witch and gave her a back story that showed her kind until she was betrayed. You can add Cruella to that list as well.

[@misso425]

This is such an eloquent summarization of what's going on, and I didn't know anything at all about Wicked except that it was about the green witch, but I was not prepared for your videos greatness. Freaking amazing content, Amala!

[@rslooby6130]

I saw the musical before it hit Broadway (cue Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth) 0:14 ..basically it was billed as what happened before the Wizard of Oz. The annoying part was the costume and set changes where they fill time by "explaining" why animals no longer talk. No mention of the animals in the original movie so it's a time fill as most productions need to include.

[@hellomello258]

It's not a time fill. It's a major element of the book's plot

[@Fireestroysme]

One of the main characters is a talking lion. Wtf you mean no animals in the original

[@urfriendbb6792]

“People are so empty-headed they’ll believe anything.” -Fiyero (WICKED)

[@camara1194]

Wicked is the musical that got me into musical theatre at 14. It’s the best. Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth were huge influences for me.

[@VicecrackVoldermort]

Excellent analysis. I notice this thing from the right where the pattern recognition hits us so hard that we can be tricked to hate benign things. Wicked is a good movie. And there are themes that we can all take from it.

[@Frigid_Knight]

"If I'll be treated like I'm evil, then let me be evil."

[@maidenhell3176]

The first giveaway is the septum piercing, the second is the hand gesture where you close your hand over your thumb or palm as you emphasize points

[@cadysample5792]

Love it when the story is actually perceived the way the author intended what makes a person wicked and the way that you can still relate it to what’s happening around you just means he was right on the dot about human nature

[@rara9770]

Just be glad, that the black actress doesn't play Glinda.

[@kawaiipurplesaphire6163]

How dare KZbin hide this from me for 1 minute😡

[@Ilive_420]

😂 👏🏾

[@aprilrhys2813]

I love your show, Amala, been following for awhile now. But this episode was a whole new level. LOVE this take. So well thought out and expressed!

[@mjarquin62]

The best wicked “review” I can’t agree on your your perspective more.

[@leeannlawrence3185]

Such loss of self-respect and self-hatred leads others to destroy those around them .

[@JenELeeP1]

4:52 Okay I’m traveling this week, and I’m not a fan of the price of eggs (groceries). Just because I can afford it doesn’t mean it’s acceptable, and just because ‘I’ can afford it, doesn’t mean everyone else can. I don’t only vote in my own self interest.

[@hotteacocoa]

That’s what I was thinking. I don’t vote on what’s just best for me but for America as a whole. That’s why I read up on candidates’ policies in the first place.🤷‍♀️

[@Wacdonaldnoneyt]

2 hours and 40 minutes movie explained by 15 minutes and 48 seconds by my favorite KZbinr

[@hzlil1]

I haven't seen the movie. But your take on it is very good. I like what you said how people are coming out with a viewpoint of who can I point my finger at instead of how am I like those in the movie wrongly labeling others. Change only starts when you look at your contribution to the situation.

[@mastercylinder1939]

Those that claim to be nice, can not be trusted, they will twist and turn, just to maintain their illusion, that they are nice..

[@wikkiddeathlord7372]

Well thanks for the synopsis of wicked. I used to think it was going to be a movie with woke all over it. Now that you've explained it the way you have, i just may watch it now to experience it for myself. Thank you Amala

[@jessymfwilson]

People seem to not realize this story is over 20 years old. Not everything has to be political. Wicked has that deeper meaning of personal struggles and the movie did a great job bringing more substance to the plot verse the musical. Also people need to stop comparing it to the books. The books are so entirely different.

[@brendan6555]

The original musical is political - I think you more mean having to do with race specifically. Cheers!

[@tepperleen]

I went to see it not expecting it to be political. I saw it on Broadway and don’t remember it being political. But I don’t know how anyone who has lived through the last four five years in the US wouldn’t see it through that lens.

[@KatieBellino]

Oh, it's meant to be political, but the story line was written based upon common problems found in politics and human nature. It wasn't specifically targeted at a certain politician.