'Wicked' gets cautionary PG rating over green skin & talking animal discrimination

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Image: Wicked Movie

 

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has given the much-acclaimed Wicked movie a PG rating over reasons that have left some cackling. The independent body drew its conclusion based on the film's plot depicting prejudice against skin with a distinct green hue, among other things. 

 

Yes, Elphaba’s emerald skin complexion might be what makes her stand out, but it's also what lands her in the crosshairs of discrimination, and that’s earned the movie a bit of a cautionary label in the UK.

 

The BBFC has flagged Wicked—which taps into themes of difference, prejudice, and the cost of not fitting in—for its portrayal of discriminatory behavior, noting that Elphaba, the film's central character, is ostracized and bullied because of her green skin. 

 

Beyond Elphaba’s struggle, the film also touches on the mistreatment of talking animals and a character with a disability, adding to the film's broader commentary on societal biases.

 

A fair bit of weight has been placed by the board on the story's depictions of discrimination, which it cites as the following:

 

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A green-skinned woman is mocked, bullied and humiliated because of her skin colour. A disabled woman in a wheelchair is treated in a condescending manner by able-bodied people. Talking animals are persecuted in a fantastical society.

Screenshot: BBFC

 

Under the BBFC’s guidelines, films suitable for a PG audience can include discrimination, provided it is clearly disapproved of within the storyline. Wicked seems to walk that fine line, making a clear point that prejudice is wrong.

 

Despite its enchanted setting, the movie’s message about intolerance is relatable, even in the real world. It reminds viewers that sometimes, fantasy worlds reflect our own more than we might expect—or want.

 

The decision to include a discrimination warning has sparked debate. On one side, there are those who see it as a case of being overly sensitive, labeling it part of the “woke brigade.”

 

Piers Morgan, never one to shy away from controversy, has already chimed in with his colorful opinion on the matter, urging critics to “please f**k off.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Others, however, appreciate the transparency, arguing that it's helpful for parents to know when a film contains potentially troubling themes that children might need support to process.

 

 

Besides the discrimination aspect, Wicked’s PG rating also accounts for some tense and scary moments scattered throughout the story. While the film is set in the vibrant, fantastical land of Oz, the narrative doesn’t shy away from complex themes—friendship, social exclusion, and even a touch of menace. These elements, combined with an enduring tale of courage and standing up for oneself, make Wicked a layered viewing experience aimed at more than just the little ones.

 

• https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/11/27/mockery-wicked-witch-west-green-skin-discrimination-film/ 
• https://www.thetimes.com/uk/media/article/wicked-pg-rating-bbfc-discrimination-2bh2b7q5r 
• https://www.irishnews.com/entertainment/bullying-of-green-skinned-witch-in-wicked-labelled-discrimination-by-regulator-L4YJD4KRWJJFZJFRXLOO5M7M74/