how the movie "Wicked" can help us explore the power of friendship and acceptance

Planning to take your preteen or teen to see the highly anticipated Wicked movie? Beyond the captivating story and music, Wicked offers powerful lessons in friendship, empathy, and embracing differences. This movie can open up meaningful conversations with your child about valuing uniqueness and celebrating what makes us all wonderfully different.

One of the most popular (and inspiring) themes from the Wicked movie and musical is the evolving friendship between its two main characters: Glinda, the bubbly and popular and Elphaba, the misunderstood and rebellious.

At the beginning of the musical, they are sworn enemies, seemingly exact opposites in every way. Yet, as they adventure to the Emerald City, their unlikely friendship takes shape, revealing how understanding and embracing each other’s differences can change them for the better. By the end of the story, these two unlikely friends from very different life backgrounds show us that a true friendship goes beyond superficial judgements and is about the true heart underneath!

While the Wicked story whisks you away to a fantasy world, there are real life themes that are prevalent in our own society addressed in the plot. Be aware that some other messages covered include: corruption of power, prejudice, dehumanization of people who are different, and the power of propaganda. Though some of the heavier themes may seem uncomfortable, discussing them in a context of a well-loved story can provide a safe space for children to explore difficult subjects and develop emotional skills because: 

1. Kids can relate: When children see characters going through different feelings and situations, they can relate to them and learn it is okay to talk about feelings.   
2. They learn about emotions: Talking about emotions helps kids learn the words to express how they feel and recognize their own and others' emotions more clearly.  
3. It builds empathy: Discussing these subjects can encourage kids to develop empathy by thinking about why characters act a certain way and how they might respond in similar situations.  
4. It creates a safe space: These discussions create a safe space where kids can explore uncomfortable feelings.   

how to start the conversation about belonging with the Wicked movie

Use these conversation starters to kick off a discussion about belonging after you've seen the film. You can use the conversation clues to tie these themes to key plot points in the movie. 

What do you think is the difference between fitting-in and belonging?  

Movie Conversation Clue: Glinda tries to help Elphaba “fit-in” at school and be more accepted. In the end, Elphaba felt it more important to be accepted for who she was and stand up for what she believes is right rather than to just “fit-in.” Elphaba is able to develop a true friendship with Glinda and relationship with Fiyero who truly accept her for who she is. 

How do you feel when you are not included in something? 

Movie Conversation Clue: Talk about how Galinda felt when Madame Morrible did not ask her to take private sorcery lessons at first. Talk about how Elphaba felt when she was laughed at when she walked into the party. 

How can you be friends with someone who might have different values than you? 

Movie Conversation Clue: Talk about how Glinda and Elphaba took different paths in life but are still able to accept each other and care about each other for who they truly are beneath the surface.  

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On Our Sleeves is on a mission to encourage more conversations about children's mental health. Using popular movies and cultural moments are great ways to connect with the children in your life and show that you're a safe person to talk to. If you're interested in learning more expert tips on how to start the conversation and break the stigma around children's mental health, we want to invite you to join the On Our Sleeves e-community!

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