Ariana Grande’s Insightful Take on Glinda and Elphaba’s Relationship in Wicked: A Mirror Reflection

Warning: This article contains spoilers for Wicked. The film, directed by Jon M. Chu, charts the transformative journey of Elphaba Thropp at Shiz University as she endeavors to meet the Wizard. Throughout her quest, Elphaba forges friendships and unravels the mysteries of Oz. One of the most captivating elements of Wicked is the evolving relationship between Elphaba and Glinda, which beautifully illustrates an enemies-to-friends narrative. Headlined by Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the performances showcase a compelling and unlikely camaraderie that resonates with audiences and sets the stage for the poignant conclusion as well as the forthcoming installment, Wicked: For Good.

Alongside its digital release, Wicked features a collection of special content, including cast interviews and previously cut scenes, offering fresh insights into key moments. Notably, the song “What Is This Feeling”serves as a pivotal point, exposing Glinda and Elphaba’s grievances. Grande’s perspective on this song adds depth to the characters’ initial animosity while subtly illuminating the commonalities that lead to their evolving friendship.

Ariana Grande’s Insight on Glinda & Elphaba’s Connection in “What Is This Feeling”

Elphaba & Glinda Recognize Their Similarities, Frustrating Yet Uniting

Ariana Grande as Glinda holding a witch's hat

Ariana Grande’s reflections during the special features illuminate Glinda and Elphaba’s relationship. While performing “What Is This Feeling,”she emphasizes how the song reveals their authentic emotions and highlights their deep-seated similarities. Grande articulates, “You get to see us at our worst, and the things that we don’t like about each other are also the things that we have in common.”Despite their apparent differences, the characters actually share significant personal traits, allowing viewers to appreciate their bond.

Glinda and Elphaba grapple with their similarities, experiencing frustration yet also discovering the foundation for their friendship. Grande continues, “It’s kind of like looking in a mirror; they both identify these weird pieces of themselves that are similar, and they can’t stand it.”This insightful observation underscores the core values they share—kindness, determination, and a fierce will—albeit expressed in unique ways. The tension derived from their similarities sets the stage for a deeper connection.

Understanding the Significance of Grande’s Comments on Glinda & Elphaba’s Similarities

How Elphaba & Glinda’s Shared Traits Create a Dynamic Partnership

Grande’s observations regarding Glinda and Elphaba’s similarities are pivotal to understanding their relationship dynamics. Their initial clashes stem from strong personalities—both are confident and assertive. Paradoxically, their traits complement each other; Elphaba desires the acceptance that Glinda effortlessly commands, while Glinda yearns for the magical prowess Elphaba embodies.

The true essence of their partnership blossoms as they recognize that their individual strengths can create collective power. As they transition from rivalry to collaboration, both characters experience personal growth: Elphaba guides Glinda into her sorcery class, while Glinda offers the genuine friendship Elphaba has longed for. Through mutual support, their relationship evolves into a formidable alliance that truly embodies the spirit of Wicked.

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