Wicked for Good Includes Fun Reference to The Shining

Wicked for Good has made its debut in theaters, and it intriguingly features a scene that pays tribute to Stanley Kubrick’s iconic horror film, The Shining.

This second installment in the Wicked franchise offers a vibrant and family-friendly musical experience centered around the feuding witches and wizards, resembling a superhero narrative, as highlighted in our review of Wicked for Good.

However, beneath the colorful surface lie profound themes, touching on issues of dictatorship and the ominous rise of fascism, reflecting a sub-plot rooted in the historical realities of Nazi Germany.

Additionally, the film presents a noteworthy connection to one of the most celebrated horror movies ever made. As a warning, SPOILERS are ahead…

The Tin Man’s Disturbing Transformation Echoes The Shining

Boq and Nessa in happier times. — Universal Pictures

The narrative of The Wizard of Oz unfolds in the backdrop of Wicked for Good, commencing with a glimpse of Dorothy right after she defeats the Wicked Witch of the West. As Dorothy journeys along the yellow brick road with the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and the Tin Man, the origins of these beloved characters are further explored.

One significant transformation occurs with Prince Fiyero, who becomes the Scarecrow through one of Elphaba’s spells, while the lion cub rescued in the first movie matures into the cowering lion we know. Likewise, Boq’s metamorphosis into the Tin Man is also attributed to Elphaba’s magical intervention, triggered when Nessa realizes that Boq harbors feelings for Glinda. In her jealousy, she casts a spell that shrunks his heart. Before the spell leads to his demise, Elphaba intervenes with a counter-spell, saving Boq.

Axe chops through door. — Universal Pictures

The aftermath is both hilarious and chilling. Boq undergoes a transformation, dropping into silver cooking vessels, with his ensuing struggle occurring off-screen. His panicked voice is heard asking, “Where am I?” before he hacks his way through a door wielding an axe, reminiscent of Jack Torrance’s infamous scene in The Shining. While he doesn’t utter the iconic “Here’s Johnny!”, the homage is undeniably evident.

Now transformed into the Tin Man, he forces his way through the opening and exclaims to Nessa, “What have you done to me, witch?” He raises the axe threateningly, creating a moment of tension, yet ultimately decides against violence and strides away on his metallic legs.

Tributes to The Great Dictator in Wicked for Good

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jj-PaqFrBc

Charlie Chaplin – Complete Globe Scene – The Great Dictator (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jj-PaqFrBc)

The cinematic nods don’t end with The Shining.Wicked for Good also salutes another classic, Charlie Chaplin’s The Great Dictator. The original Wicked established a link to this film when Jeff Goldblum’s wizard playfully bounces a moon, reminiscent of Chaplin’s globe scene.

In Wicked for Good, the homage deepens, as the wizard juggles a beach ball globe while performing a number about history and deception, echoing the style of Chaplin’s timeless work.

Wicked for Good is currently in cinemas, and for insights on what the film’s stars have to say about the anticipated Wicked 3, click here.