WICKED
Screenplay by
Winnie Holzman and
Winnie Holzman & Dana Fox
Based on the Musical Stage Play
with Music and Lyrics by
Stephen Schwartz
and Book by
Winnie Holzman
From the Novel by
Gregory Maguire
1
FADE IN:
1 1
INT. KIAMO KO CASTLE - PARAPET - PRE-DAWN
A SHIMMERING, MYSTERIOUS ORB comes into view. As we look
closer, it reveals itself to be-- a drop of water.
More drops appear, they-- float up, and that's when we
realize: we've been looking at this upside down...
We follow these drops, right side up now, to A STREAM OF
WATER, flowing from the next room. We follow this stream
THROUGH the open doorway, where:
...it's eerily silent. We pass clues: a bucket on its side, a
slowly spreading puddle of water, some blue feathers, a
soaked black cloak and... A POINTED BLACK HAT.
Suddenly, something bursts from the shadows, into the sky--
IT'S A SWARM OF WINGED MONKEYS.
The orchestral opening of "No One Mourns The Wicked" begins.
2 2
EXT. KIAMO KO CASTLE - PRE-DAWN
WE FOLLOW THE FLYING MONKEYS as they soar over
FOUR FIGURES, below, crossing a drawbridge out of the castle.
One of them is waving something... a broomstick?
The first rays of the sun hit a waterfall, creating a
rainbow. We move over it, and travel along the ground, as...
A HORSE, ridden by a cloaked figure, gallops past--
SMASH CUT TO:
3 3
EXT. MUNCHKINLAND - TULIP FIELDS - MORNING
And CHILDREN charge, excitedly, through a nearby field--
LITTLE OZIAN BOY
Good news! She's dead!
LITTLE OZIAN GIRL
It's the Witch Hunters!
LITTLE OZIAN BOY
They got her Broomstick!
2
4 4
EXT. MUNCHKINLAND - TOWN CENTER - MORNING
AN OZIAN FAMILY scrambles out of their front door, to find
their NEIGHBORS, who turn to them, over-the-moon--
NEIGHBORS
GOOD NEWS! SHE'S DEAD!
All around, MORE OZIANS emerge from their homes-- they hug,
CLANG POTS AND PANS, SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS:
OZIANS
THE WITCH OF THE WEST IS DEAD!
PEOPLE pour out into the streets, emotional; exultant--
OZIANS (CONT'D)
THE WICKEDEST WITCH THERE EVER WAS
THE ENEMY OF ALL O F US HERE IN OZ
IS DEAD!
GOOD NEWS!
GOOD NEWS!
One LITTLE GIRL's eyes widen: there's a LARGE BUBBLE,
floating in front of her-- she pops it! And then we see:
MORE BUBBLES, floating down from above--
MAN IN THE CROWD
Look! It's Glinda!
The crowd looks to where he's pointing...
And rising in the North, we see: glowing, backlit against an
impossibly beautiful, rainbow-colored sky...
GLINDA, the good witch, t he best witch of all, floating high
above the crowd, in her very own flying Bubble--
VARIOUS OZIANS
It's her!/It's Glinda!/The Witch of
the North!/It's Glinda the Good!
FROM THE CROWD'S POV: Glinda looks down at them adoringly.
The Bubble "lands". Inside, Glinda raises her wand, as if to
work some magic... and then PLINK! She taps the Bubble with
her wand and pops it .
The crowd CHEERS! As Glinda steps forward, radiating
goodness, she smiles her irresistible smile--
3
GLINDA
It's good to see me, isn't it?
(the thrilled crowd is
speechless)
No need to respond-- that was
rhetorical. Fellow Ozians...
(singing)
LET US BE GLAD
LET US BE GRATEFUL
LET US REJOICIFY THAT GOODNESS COULD SUBDUE
THE WICKED WORKINGS OF YOU-KNOW-WHO
ISN'T IT NICE TO KNOW
THAT GOOD WILL CONQUER EVIL?
THE TRUTH WE ALL BELIEVE'LL BY AND BY
OUTLIVE A LIE
FOR YOU AND...
SOMEONE IN CROWD
Glinda! Exactly how dea d is she?
GLINDA
Because there has been so much
rumor and speculation... innuendo,
outuendo... let me set the record
straight.
ANGLE ON: A Messenger taps Glinda's proclamation into an
Ozian-style telegraph machine as--
GLINDA (CONT'D)
The liquidation occurred at the
thirteenth hour, the direct result
of a bucket of water thrown by a
female child. Yes, the Wicked Witch
of the West... is dead.
The crowd EXPLODES: embracing, dancing, CELEBRATING...!
MAN IN THE CROWD
NO ONE MOURNS THE WICKED
WOMAN IN THE CROWD
NO ONE CRIES: "THEY WON'T RETURN!"
ALL
NO ONE LAYS A LILY ON THEIR GRAVE
5 5
EXT. MUNCHKINLAND - FIELD
The news travels beyond the town to PEOPLE at work in the
fields--
MAN
THE GOOD MAN SCORNS THE WICKED!
4
THREE WOMEN
THROUGH THEIR LIVES, OUR CHILDREN LEARN:
ALL
WHAT WE MISS
WHEN WE MISBEHAVE
6 6
EXT. MUNCHKINLAND - TOWN CENTER
GLINDA
AND GOODNESS KNOWS
THE WICKED'S LIVES ARE LONELY
GOODNESS KNOWS
THE WICKED DIE ALONE
IT JUST SHOWS WHEN YOU'RE WICKED
YOU'RE LEFT ONLY
ON YOUR OWN...
The townspeople gather around Glinda.
TOWNSPEOPLE
YES, GOODNESS KNOWS
THE WICKED'S LIVES ARE LONELY
GOODNESS KNOWS
THE WICKED CRY ALONE
NOTHING GROWS FOR THE WICKED
THEY REAP ONLY
WHAT THEY'VE SOWN...
A GIRL IN THE CROWD calls out to Glinda--
GIRL IN THE CROW D
But Miss Glinda, why does
Wickedness happen?
GLINDA
That's a good question. One that
many people find confusifying: Are
people born Wicked? Or do they have
Wickedness thrust upon them? After
all, she had a childhood. She had a
father, who, by the way, had been
appointed the Governor of
Munchkinland...
7-10 7-10
OMITTED
11 11
INT. GOVERNOR'S MANSION - HALLWAY - NIGHT [FLASHBACK]
GOVERNOR THROPP, a somber looking man in a suit, calls out--
GOVERNOR THROPP
I'm off to the Assembly, dear!
5
His voice ECHOES in the large, ornate house.
GLINDA (V.O.)
And she had a mother. As so many
do...
A hauntingly beautiful woman appears beside Governor Thropp.
This is his wife-- MRS. THROPP.
GOVERNOR THROPP
HOW I HATE TO GO AND LEAVE YOU LONELY
MRS. THROPP
THAT'S ALRIGHT -- IT'S ONLY JUST ONE NIGHT
GOVERNOR THROPP
BUT KNOW THAT YOU'RE HERE IN MY HEART
WHILE I'M OUT OF YOUR SIGHT...
GLINDA (V.O.)
Like every fa mily... they had their
secrets.
Governor Thropp kisses his wife goodbye. She shuts the front
door behind him. Her expression changes. She turns, we FOLLOW
HER through the house... Down the hall...
To the back door, where she pulls HER LOVER inside.
The Lover (who we only see from behind or in shadows) takes a
swig from a small green bottle, then offers it to her--
THE LOVER
HAVE ANOTHER DRINK, MY DARK-EYED BEAUTY
I'VE GOT ONE MORE NIGHT LEFT, HERE IN TOWN
SO HAVE ANOTHER DRINK OF GREEN ELIXIR
AND WE'LL HAVE OURSELVES A LITTLE MIXER
HAVE ANOTHER LITTLE SWALLOW, LITTLE LADY,
AND FOLLOW ME DOWN...
They kiss-- the bottle slips from her hand. As she pulls him
up the stairs, WE LINGER ON THE GREEN BOTTLE, lying there...
GLINDA (V.O.)
And one thing led to another... as
it so often does.
12-14 12-14
OMITTED
15 15
INT. GOVERNOR'S MANSION - HALLWAY & BEDROOM - DAY
CLOSE ON: Mrs. Thropp grabbing the bedsheets...
6
GLINDA (V.O.)
But from the moment the witch was
born she was... well, different.
CLOSE ON: ENORMOUS BEAR PAWS, RUNNING. Is someone being
attacked? But then, the bear paws run... up a staircase.
DULCIBEAR (PRE-LAP)
IT'S COMING...
16 16
INT. GOVERNOR'S MANSION - BEDROOM - DAY [9 MONTHS LATER]
The bear opens the door, carrying a cauldron and wearing a
nursemaid's uniform. This is DULCIBEAR.
GOVERNOR THROPP
NOW?
We hear a SCREAM and REVEAL Mrs. Thropp is in labor.
DULCIBEAR
THE BABY'S COMING...
GOVERNOR THROPP
AND HOW!
Governor Thropp dabs his wife's brow lovingly as Dulcibear
pours boiling water over some towels and hands one to--
A FEMALE WOLF DOCTOR. The Wolf Doctor holds an Ozian
stethosco pe to Mrs. Thropp's pregnant belly.
WOLF DOCTOR
I SEE A NOSE...
GOVERNOR THROPP
I SEE A CURL...
DULCIBEAR/GOVERNOR THROPP
IT'S A HEALTHY PERFECT LOVELY LITTLE...
DULCIBEAR
Ohhhhh!
GOVERNOR THROPP
Sweet Oz!
MRS. THROPP
What is it, what's wrong?
Governor Thropp stares at the baby in shocked disbelief.
DULCIBEAR
HOW CAN IT BE?
7
GOVERNOR THROPP
WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
DULCIBEAR
IT'S UNCANNY!
GOVERNOR THROPP
(devastated)
IT'S OBSCENE!
GOVERNOR THROPP/WOLF DOCTOR
LIKE A FROGGY, FERNY CABBAGE
THE BABY IS UNNATURALLY...
Governor Thropp looks from the baby to his wife, hurt and
betrayed.
GOVERNOR THROPP
(a hushed accusation)
GREEN.
As Mrs. Thropp sees her BABY, we REVEAL: the baby is green.
Dulcibear picks up the baby and swaddles it lovingly. She
goes to hand the baby to Mrs. Thropp when--
GOVERNOR THROPP (CONT'D)
Take it away.
Dulcibear hesitates. Suddenly the green baby lets out a WAIL,
and-- BAM! All the objects in the room fly into the air and
stick to the ceiling and walls, as if gravity has pulled them
in all directions.
Everyone looks around, stunned. Governor Thropp stares at the
green baby, clearly the source of this perversion of physics.
GOVERNOR THROPP (CONT'D)
Take it away--!
Dulcibear hurries out with the baby, cradling it protectively
in her arms. The baby calms. As they exit, we glimpse: the
objects in the room behind them tumble back to earth.
TRANSITION: CLOSE ON a pop-up book, held by a pair of small
green hands.
17 17
EXT. GOVERNOR'S MANSION - FRONT LAWN - DAY [FLASHBACK]
FIND LITTLE ELPHABA (7) reading her book on the lawn.
Next to her, Dulcibear plays peekaboo with TODDLER NESSAROSE,
"NESSA", (Elphaba's 4 year old sister, with eyes that could
melt your heart. She's in an Ozian-style wheelchair).
8
GOVERNOR THROPP (O.S.)
Dulcibear!
Across the lawn, DIGNITARIES arrive, greeting the Governor.
DULCIBEAR
Coming, Governor!
(to Elphaba)
Little One--
Little Elphaba looks up from her book--
DULCIBEAR (CONT'D)
Watch baby Nessa just a clock tick--
As Dulcibear lumbers off to assist the Governor, we hear:
TAUNTING KIDS (O.S.)
Yeah, watch your sister, El-pha-ba!
Little Elphaba looks over to the gate to the lawn, where so me
MEAN KIDS have gathered--
MEAN KID
Just don't let her see how ugly you
are!
The Kids LAUGH. Elphaba yells back, like it's a great burn--
LITTLE ELPHABA
She already knows!
Confident she got the last word, Little Elphaba turns to her
baby sister... whose big eyes now look frightened--
LITTLE ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Oh, Nessarose, don't you worry--
(whispers)
I'm right here. I always will be.
Elphaba takes Nessa's t iny hand into her own green hand,
looks into her eyes, smiles. Comforted, Nessa smiles back.
LITTLE ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Now. You want to see something
wonderful...?
(opening her pop-up book)
This is all about the Wizard. Do
you know how he got here?
Toddler Nessa shakes her head no, eyes wide--
LITTLE ELPHABA (CONT'D)
From the sky! In a balloon! See?
9
We see a pop-up balloon, as Little Elphaba continues...
LITTLE ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Then he built a city made of
emeralds, `cause he loves emeralds.
Even though they're green. And
Nessa, if you get to meet him?
(whispers)
He grants your heart's desire!
PING! A single pebble hits the pop up book-- when Elphaba
turns to where it came from, WE HEAR the Kids, chanting--
KIDS
Elphaba Thropp, green on top.
Someone run and tell her
That everyon e can smell her...
The kids throw more pebbles. Toddler Nessa BURSTS INTO TEARS.
Little Elphaba leaps to her feet, glaring at the Kids, and
suddenly-- the pebbles and dirt swirl up from the ground and
pummel the shocked kids. They SCREAM and run away.
GOVERNOR THROPP (O.S.)
What have you done this time?!
Elphaba turns to see her father rush over with Dulcibear.
GOVERNOR THROPP (CONT'D)
(to Elphaba)
Now you've made your sister cry!
He scoops up Toddler Nessa, and carries her off.
Elphaba looks down at her pop-up book in the dirt. Dulcibear
picks it up and dusts it off, giving it back to her tenderly.
Elphaba opens it and a pop-up Wizard comes out of his palace,
smiling, his little pop-up hand reaching out... to her.
GLINDA (PRE-LAP)
So you see... it couldn't have been
easy.
18 18
EXT. MUNCHKINLAND - TOWN CENTER - MORNING
The crowd parts, making way for a HUGE EFFIGY OF ELPHABA.
It's wheeled towards Glinda, bearing down on her...
CROWD
NO ONE MOURNS THE WICKED
NOW AT LAST, SHE'S DEAD AND GONE
An OZIAN ZEALOT lights a stick and hands it to Glinda to do
the honors.
10
Glinda's smile tightens for a split second, but then... she
lights the EFFIGY, which ignites in a WHOOSH of flames!
CROWD (CONT'D)
GLINDA
(concerned) NOW AT LAST THERE'S JOY
THROUGHOUT THE LAND
GOODNESS KNOWS... AND GOODNESS KNOWS...
WE KNOW WHAT GOODNESS IS
AHH GOODNESS KNOWS...
THE WICKED DIE ALONE...
SHE DIED ALONE... WOE TO THOSE (WOE TO THOSE)
WHO SPURN WHAT GOODNESSES
THEY ARE SHOWN...
NO ONE MOURNS THE WICKED!
GOOD NEWS!
NO ONE MOURNS THE WICKED!
GOOD NEWS!
NO ONE MOURNS THE...
ALL
WICKED!
WICKED!
WICKED!
A beat. Glinda turns away from the burning effigy.
GLINDA
Well. As you can imagine, I have
much to attend to, what with the
Wizard's unexpected departure, so--
Glinda steps back onto the Bubble's platform, and now we see
that it is a bubble-powered machine: mechanical, not magical.
GLINDA (CONT'D)
If there are no further q uestions--
The Bubble "rebubbles" itself over her with a quick swoop.
Glinda is about to float away when suddenly A VOICE IN THE
CROWD yells out--
VOICE IN THE CROWD
Glinda! Is it true you were her
friend?
Glinda freezes, thrown.
From inside her Bubble, Glinda stares at the burning effigy.
For a moment, the flames take her to a memory... a feeling...
-- QUICK FLASH TO: A younger Glinda sits, arm in arm , with
someone dressed in black, with black hair, whose face we
can't see.
11
There's no sound but the CRACKLE and POP of a fire in a
fireplace. Glinda laughs until she cries, then-- leans closer
to this person, and whispers something.
BACK TO SCENE: Glinda stares into the burning effigy then
turns back to the crowd--
GLINDA
Friend? I mean... I knew her.
RIPPLES OF SHOCK move through the Crowd below...
GLINDA (CONT'D)
That is, our paths did cross. At
school... But you must understand ,
it was... a long time ago...
OFF Glinda, remembering... and suddenly, we're on a boat,
with her, traveling down a RIVER, towards:
18A 18A
EXT. SHIZ UNIVERSITY - RIVER ARCH
The breathtaking arched gateway to Shiz University. We hear
the OPENING CHORDS the Shiz University Oz-ma Mater.
SONG: "DEAR OLD SHIZ" - INSTRUMENTAL INTRO
19 19
EXT. SHIZ UNIVERSITY - ENTRANCE COURTYARD - DAY
Pink suitcases of every size and shape hit the ground, as
Glinda (or as she was known back then, "GALINDA") strides
through the impressive gates, clad in a Shiz University
blazer, that she has styled in her own fashion forward,
Galinda way. She's flanked by her ADORING PARENTS.
As Galinda strides by, VARIOUS STUDENTS and PARENTS, notice
her, thinking they know her-- or just wanting to. They smil e
as she passes, and Galinda (being Galinda) smiles back,
waving, used to this...
Galinda stops and turns to her parents, flinging open her
arms and pulling them into a hug. After a long beat, she
gently extricates herself. As her tearful parents reluctantly
start to go, she calls out--
GALINDA
Remember, it's not goodbye, it's
farewell.
Her Parents immediately rush back, clinging to her again.
This time she's getting squished, and over it...
12
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Now it's goodbye.
Her parents nod, and with one last kiss, they back away--
GALINDA'S PARENTS
Goodbye, precious!/We love you!
Glinda notices: a handkerchief, floating beside her? She
turns, puzzled, and sees...
AN EARNEST YOUNG MUNCHKIN STUDENT, (BOQ) offering it to her.
She takes it, dabs her eyes...
GALINDA
(to Boq, genuine)
They're going to miss me so much.
BOQ
(overcomes his shyness)
I'm Boq. From Munchkinland. And I
know we don't know each other, but--
GALINDA
You know what I believe, Bick?
BOQ
Boq. I mean-- what.
GALINDA
That strangers... are just people
I've never met.
He takes this in, slightly stumped, but she's looking into
his eyes, and he's blown away, about to say more, when--
PFANNEE/SHENSHEN (O.S.)
GALINDA!!
Two excited students, PFANNEE and SHENSHEN, rush up to
Galinda.
PFANNEE
It's Pfannee!
SHENSHEN
And ShenShen!
PFANNEE
From Miss Cringeable's Twirling
Academy!
SHENSHEN
Do you remember us?
13
Galinda clearly doesn't, but--
GALINDA
Of course!
Boq watches, smitten, as Galinda chats with them, then moves
toward the STUDENT CHOIR, conducted by the Head Shizstress,
MISS CODDLE. Pfannee and ShenShen follow Galinda...
STUDENT CHOIR
O HALLOWED HALLS AND VINE-DRAPED WALLS...
Just then, a BOAT pulls up, unnoticed by them. It briefly
obscures our view of Galinda--
STUDENT CHOIR (CONT'D)
THE PROUDLIEST SIGHT TH ERE IS
A BLACK BOOT steps out and plants itself on the ground. Then
another beside it.
STUDENT CHOIR (CONT'D)
WHEN GREY AND SERE OUR HAIR HATH TURNED
We don't see who the boots belong to yet. We're behind this
figure. A thick braid obscures her neck. Her hands are shoved
in her pockets. A jacket (not a Shiz blazer) and tights cover
her arms and legs.
STUDENT CHOIR (CONT'D)
WE SHALL STILL REVERE THE LESSONS LEARNED
Stil l behind the figure, we move toward the choir with
Galinda and her new friends...
The figure reaches a green hand up and slowly pulls her braid
aside, revealing her green neck. A FEW STUDENTS notice and
gawk. One drops his suitcase.
STUDENT CHOIR (CONT'D)
IN OUR DAYS AT DEAR OLD SHIZ
Galinda moves closer to the choir, assuming the whispers and
pointing are a response to her Galinda-ness.
STUDENT CHOIR (CONT'D)
(not icing the mysterious
figure)
OUR DAYS AT DEAR OLD SHIZZZZ...
The Choir trails off. Galinda eagerly fills in for them--
GALINDA
OH-OH-OH-OH-OLD...
14
Mid-VOCALIZING, we watch it dawn on Galinda that everyone
around her is staring, slack-jawed, just past her. She spins
around and--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
AHHH!!!
Galinda YELPS as she sees the figure in all her green glory.
And so do we. This is ELPHABA (20s, badass. Her razor sharp
mind and tongue serve as armor, to protect her tender soul
from moments like these).
Galinda stares at her. Elphaba stares back defiantly.
ELPHABA
What? What are you staring at? Oh--
do I have something in my teeth?
Galinda is silent, flummoxed by this confrontation.
GALINDA
But... you're... green.
ELPHABA
I am?
Elphaba looks around, as if to confirm this.
E LPHABA (CONT'D)
Fine. Let's get this over with--
(addressing them all)
No, I'm not seasick; yes, I've
always been green; no, I didn't eat
grass as a child.
Galinda feels everyone watching, musters up her best self--
GALINDA
Well, I for one am so sorry that
you're forced to live with--
(gestures)
This--
ELPHABA
Is that so?
GALINDA
Yes, and it's my intention to major
in sorcery, so-- if at some future
time you wanted to-- address the
problem? Perhaps I could-- help.
15
ELPHABA
Offering to help someone you don't
know with a skill you don't have.
I'm sure everyone's duly impressed.
Galinda, proudly virtuous, makes sure all can hear--
GALINDA
I could care less what other people
think.
ELPHABA
Couldn't.
GALINDA
What?
ELPHABA
You "couldn't" care less what other
people think.
(looks her up and down)
Though I doubt that's true.
A ripple of tension courses through the crowd, when- -
GOVERNOR THROPP (O.S.)
Elphaba--!
Governor Thropp appears, with NESSA. Now also in her 20's;
Nessa is beautiful, seemingly shy compared to Elphaba, but
with her own brand of inner fierceness.
ELPHABA
Oh, and this is my younger sister,
Nessarose-- as you can see, she's a
perfectly acceptable color--
As Nessa, embarrassed, tries to disappear, Thropp yanks
Elphaba aside, hisses in her ear--
GOVERNOR TH ROPP (O.S.)
Stop making a spectracle of
yourself!
Governor Thropp presents a gift-wrapped bundle to Nessa--
GOVERNOR THROPP (CONT'D)
My precious little girl-- a parting
gift.
NESSA
Father--!
16
With a self-conscious glance at Elphaba, Nessa opens the
gift, revealing...
NESSA (CONT'D)
Jeweled shoes?
GOVERNOR THROPP
So they'll all see how beautiful
you are-- right down to your toes.
Elphaba comes close, as Nessa takes her old shoes off and
puts the jeweled ones on, Elphaba whispers to her, contrite.
ELPHABA
I shouldn't have sprouted off like
that.
NESSA
(a gentle reproof)
No, you shouldn't have. Today is --
(she breaks off)
ELPHABA
The start of your new life.
The sisters regard each other-- they've never been apart
before. Saying goodbye is hard... for both of them.
NESSA
I'll miss you.
Elphaba takes her younger sister's hand.
ELPHABA
No you won't. You'll be having too
good a time.
TOWER BELLS RING. All around them, Students bid goodbye to
their loving families, and head for the Main Hall.
Governor Thropp reaches out for Nessa's chair, but--
ELPHABA (CONT'D) NESSA
Don't help her-- Don't help me--
Nessa waves, and rolls away. Elphaba, happiness for her
sister mixed with a private ache, watches Nessa head off with
the others. Then-- Elphaba glances over at her father.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
She'll be fine.
GOVERNOR THROPP
Go with her.
17
ELPHABA
What?
GOVERNOR THROPP
Just until she's safely settled in
her room. Make sure she has
everything she needs.
ELPHABA
Father, she's on her own now, I
can't just--
GOVERNOR THROPP
Stop jabbering and do as I say!
Elphaba is startled-- not by his harshness, she's used to
that. By the tears in his eyes. He lowers his voice.
GOVERNOR THROPP (CONT'D)
Please. If anything should happen
to her--
She can't refuse.
20-21 20-21
OM ITTED
22 22
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD
Elphaba approaches the impressive quad, pausing to admire: an
archway carved with a striking fresco depicting historical
Ozian Animals. Then, above this, she spots--
A CARVING OF THE WIZARD. Elphaba stares up at it, in awe. His
carved arm is outstretched, as if reaching out to her... She
steps through the archway to find--
The SHIZ PRESIDENT, at a podium, surrounded by seated (human)
FACULTY MEMB ERS. A well-dressed SHOEBILL-BIRD and a
distinguished-looking, bespectacled Goat, DOCTOR DILLAMOND,
the only Animal faculty members, are positioned at the edge
of the platform, a slight distance from the others.
SHIZ PRESIDENT
...and rounding out the rest of our
faculty, we have two scholars,
eminent in their respective fields
of Forestry and Agriculture...
TWO HUMAN PROFESSORS stand, to POLITE APPL AUSE.
IN THE AUDIENCE: Among the STUDENTS, we find Nessa, in one of
the aisles. Boq is seated not far behind her and nearby,
Galinda sits with Pfannee and ShenShen.
18
IN THE BACK OF THE QUAD: Elphaba enters quietly, unnoticed...
SHIZ PRESIDENT (CONT'D)
As well as Professor Mombi, of the
Biological Arts... And of course,
the head of our History department,
Doctor Dillamond.
Mombi, the Bird, and Doctor Dillamond, the Goat, step
forward. But-- there's no applause.
IN THE BACK OF THE QUAD, Elphaba takes this in, as UP AT THE
PODIUM: The President CLEARS HIS THROAT...
SHIZ PRESIDENT (CONT'D)
Finally... In today's Oz, a real
sorceress, one who possesses true
magic, has become all too rare...
A ripple of excitement spreads across the room. Galinda sits
up straighter, in anticipation.
SHIZ PRESIDENT (CONT'D)
Which is why we are so privileged
to have, here at Shiz, our esteemed
Professor Emeritus and Dean of
Sorcery Studies... Madame Morrible.
EXCITED APPLAUSE. Everyone leaps to their feet, as--
An elegant woman appears in the back of the hall, charisma
radiating from her like a magnetic charge. This is MADAME
MORRIBLE. As she makes her way down the aisle and up the
steps of the platform, all eyes are on her.
Nessa, her view now blocked by everyone standing up, cranes
to ge t a glimpse of Morrible. Her eyes meet Boq's, also
struggling to see. They share a wry smile...
Galinda stares, starstruck, at Madame Morrible.
GALINDA
It's really her!
(whispers to her friends)
Madame Morrible is why I applied to
Shiz! They say she's been looking
for someone to mentorize, and it's
my dream to someday fill her shoes!
(clocking her shoes)
Which are amazing.
Morrible, now at the podium, looks out at the students.
19
MORRIBLE
Welcome new students. And
congratulotions, on having been
accepted to Shiz. Whether you'll be
studying Law, Logic, or
Linguification, I know I speak for
my fellow faculty members when I
say that we have nothing but the
highest hopes. For some of you.
Galinda perks up, positive Morrible is speaking only of her.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
And now-- Miss Coddle, if you
please...
The perennially anxious Miss Coddl e steps up to the podium--
MISS CODDLE
I am Miss Coddle, Head Shizstress.
And these are your dormitory
designations and room assignments!
Miss Coddle signals, and five ASSISTANTS appear at the sides
of the room, holding ornate poles with scrolls attached to
the top. In unison, they pull a ribbon-- scrolls unfurl,
revealing the room assignments.
BUZZING excitedly, the Students rush to locate themselve s on
the lists. All except Galinda, who (tailed by Pfannee and
ShenShen) moves purposefully toward Madame Morrible.
GALINDA
Madame Morrible?!
Morrible, steps down from the platform and sees--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
I am Galinda Upland. Of the Upper
Uplands?
MORRIBLE
If this is regarding room
assignments--
GALINDA
Oh, no... Thank you so much for
asking, but I've already been
assigned a private suite.
Then, realiz ing that Pfannee and ShenShen are listening--
20
GALINDA (CONT'D)
But you can of course come visit me
whenever you want!
Impressed by her generosity, they murmur to each other--
SHENSHEN PFANNEE
Awww!! She's so good!
PFANNEE (CONT'D)
(to Galinda)
You're so good!
Morrible, unimpressed, heads for the exit. Undauntable,
Galinda follows determinedly after her--
GALINDA
No, it's about my application to
your sorcery seminar!
MORRIBLE
I do not teach my seminar every
semester. Of course, if someone
very special were to come along---
Morrible starts to walk away from Galinda.
GALINDA
Well, naturally! Which is why I
wanted to talk to you...
But Morrible just keeps walking. Galinda frowns at Pfannee
and ShenShen, frustrated, as...
BY THE LAST ROOM ASSIGNMENT SCROLL:
Nessa is searching for her name, when--
MISS CODDLE
There you are! Miss Nessarose,
isn't it? The Governor's daughter ?
(taking Nessa in)
How tragically beautiful you are.
It's an honor to-- AHHH!
Miss Coddle involuntarily yelps, startled by the sight of
Elphaba, who has just appeared.
Hearing this yelp, Morrible turns and observes, as--
ELPHABA
I'm the other daughter. I'm
beautifully tragic.
21
NESSA
Elphaba--?
MISS CODDLE
(rattled)
The other daughter? I wasn't-- made
aware, but-- not to fret, just a
slight gulch, we'll find someplace
to hide you-- I mean house you!
ELPHABA
No, I'm not enrolled.
MISS CODDLE
Oh good. Though I'm sure you're...
very bright.
Galinda overhears this, turns to Pfannee and ShenShen--
GALINDA
Bright? She's phosphorescent!
Everyone LAUGHS, including Boq. Elphaba hears them and her
eyes flash with anger. Nessa, embarrassed, whispers--
NESSA
Why are you still here?
ELPHABA
Forgive me Nessa, Father insisted--
MISS CODDLE
(interrupts)
Oh, the Governor made his concern
for your sister quite apparent--
Please assure him I'm honored to
help her.
Miss Coddle moves towards Nessa.
NESSA
Wait, what?
ELPHABA
Oh, no, she doesn't need your help.
NESSA
(to Elphaba)
Or yours.
(to Coddle)
I just need to find my room.
MISS CODDLE
I'll bring you there myself!
22
Miss Coddle takes hold of Nessa's chair--
NESSA
No, I meant-- wait--! I can find my
own way...
But Miss Coddle starts to push Nessa's chair--
ELPHABA
Miss Coddle-- no!
But Coddle keeps pushing. Elphaba sees Nessa's distress...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Stop! She doesn't need you to--
As Miss Coddle struggles to push Nessa's wheelchair-- it
starts to move backwards, as if pulled by some unseen force.
Nessa sees light fixtures begin to bend off the wall. Water
from a nearby fountain starts to lean.
NESSA
(a frightened whisper)
Oh no! Elphaba--
Miss Coddle struggles to lift her feet off the ground. She's
stuck, weighed down by a sudden, forceful gravity.
Pfannee and ShenShen clutch each other in fear but Galinda
can't take her eyes off what's happening.
The chairs in the quad begin sliding towards Elphaba, whose
anger mounts as Miss Coddle struggles, until--
ELPHABA
LET. HER. GO!!
Nessa's wheelchair breaks out of Miss Coddle's hands and
rises into the air.
People watch in shock. Elphaba's eyes are locked on Nessa.
The wheels of Nessa's chair begin to spin until they suddenly
stop. Nessa drops back down to earth. Coddle can finally walk
again-- her feet freed from the gravitational pull.
Elphaba grabs the wheelchair and helps pull it back down. She
EXHALES, Nessa is safe...
FROM HIGH ABOVE: we see Elphaba and Nessa at the center of
the group of st unned students, the chairs of the quad piled
up around them.
23
ON MORRIBLE: She's been observing all this closely...
NESSA
(devastated)
This was my chance. My new start.
ELPHABA
Oh Nessa-- I'm so sorry--
The students who haven't fled now stare at Elphaba with shock
and fear. Morrible clocks this and quickly calls out--
MORRIBLE
Magic is merely the mind's attempt
to wrap itself around the
impossible. Yes: I did that...
(everyone reacts)
...to prepare you to expect th e
unexpected here at Shiz.
The students regard Morrible with awe, and break into
APPLAUSE, as Nessa and Elphaba share a private look of
surprised relief. Then Nessa heads out, on her own...
ON GALINDA: She's blown away--
GALINDA
(to Pfannee and ShenShen)
Did you visually see that? I simply
must get into her seminar!
MORRIBLE
And speaking of the unexpected...
Morrible turns to Galinda and the other gi rls--
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Which of you young ladies will
volunteer to share with--
GALINDA
(calls out)
Madame Morrible--?
MORRIBLE
Oh, thank you dear. That is very
good of you.
GALINDA
Wait, what?
MORRIBLE
Miss-- Elphaba, is it--? You can
room with Miss Galinda!
24
ELPHABA
What?!
GALINDA
But, Madame Morrible--
MORRIBLE
Go now. All of you.
The Students leave the quad. Galinda stops, turning back to
look again-- first at Morrible, then at Elphaba, because...
there must be some mistake... and then she hears--
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
You. Come with me.
Galinda smiles, relieved and thrilled--
GALINDA
Well, of course!
Galinda starts towards Morrible--
MORRIBLE
No. Not you.
(turns to Elphaba )
You.
Galinda stops short. Both girls are deeply confused.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
(to Elphaba)
I shall tutor you privately. And
take no other students. Now come.
And with that, Morrible sweeps out the back exit. Elphaba
hesitates, then follows as Galinda stands there in shock.
23 23
EXT. SHIZ - ENTRANCE COURTYARD - COLONNADE - DAY
Morrible walks briskly, as Elphaba hurries to keep up.
ELPHABA
Madame, thank you, for covering for
me. And I'm-- humbled, by your
munificent offer, but my father
would never allow it!
MORRIBLE
(with utter assurance)
Just leave your father to me. I
shall speak to him post haste!
25
As Elphaba attempts to process all this-- Morrible stops,
fixes Elphaba with a penetrating look.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
How long have you had this...
talent?
ELPHABA
Talent? No. Something just-- comes
over me, sometimes. Something I
can't control... And when it
does... bad things happen.
MORRIBLE
If you can learn to use your
powers... in the right way...
Morrible, deeply moved, regards her new student--
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Oh, Miss Elphaba...
SONG: "THE WIZARD AND I"
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
MANY YEARS I HAVE WAITED
FOR A GIFT LIKE YOURS TO APPEAR
WHY I PREDICT THE WIZARD
MIGHT MAKE YOU HIS
MAGIC GRAND VIZIER
ELPHABA
The Wizard!?
MORRIBLE
MY DEAR, MY DEAR
I'LL WRITE AT ONCE TO THE WIZARD
TELL HIM OF YOU IN ADVANCE
WITH A TALENT LIKE YOURS, DEAR
THERE IS A DEFIN-ISH CHANCE
IF YOU WORK AS YOU SHOULD
YOU'LL BE MAKING GOOD...
(then)
Welcome to Shiz!
Morrible smiles, leaves her.
Elphaba is now al one-- and thunderstruck, trying to absorb
what just transpired.
ELPHABA
DID THAT REALLY JUST HAPPEN?
HAVE I ACTUALLY UNDERSTOOD?
THIS WEIRD QUIRK I'VE TRIED
26
TO SUPPRESS OR HIDE
IS A TALENT THAT COULD
HELP ME MEET THE WIZARD
IF I MAKE GOOD
SO I'LL MAKE GOOD...
Elphaba hop stones across a rivulet, Frogs leaping off the
stones as she lands on the other side...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
WHEN I MEET THE WIZARD
ONCE I PROVE MY WORTH
AND THEN I MEET THE WIZARD
WHAT I'VE WAITED FOR SINCE -- SINCE BIRTH!
She arrives at some steps, climbs them...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
AND WITH ALL HIS WIZARD WISDOM
BY MY LOOKS, HE WON'T BE BLINDED
DO YOU THINK THE WIZARD IS DUMB?
OR LIKE MUNCHKINS, SO SMALL-MINDED?
NO!
She finds a bench at the top of the steps... as Crickets jump
out of her path...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
HE'LL SAY TO ME:
"I SEE WHO YOU TRULY ARE
A GIRL ON WHOM I CAN RELY!"
AND THAT'S HOW WE'LL BEGIN
THE WIZARD AND I...
She crosses into a garden in front of the library, alive with
Ozian flowers swirling in the w ind...
23A 23A
EXT. SHIZ - ENTRANCE COURTYARD - LIBRARY GARDEN - DAY
ELPHABA
ONCE I'M WITH THE WIZARD
MY WHOLE LIFE WILL CHANGE
'CUZ ONCE YOU'RE WITH THE WIZARD
NO ONE THINKS YOU'RE STRANGE!
Bees fly out from among the flowers.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
NO FATHER IS NOT PROUD OF YOU
NO SISTER ACTS ASHAMED
AND ALL OF OZ HAS TO LOVE YOU
WHEN BY THE WIZARD, YOU'RE ACCLAIMED
AND THIS GIFT -- OR THIS CURSE --
I HAVE INSIDE
27
MAYBE AT LAST, I'LL KNOW WHY
AS WE WORK HAND IN HAND
THE WIZARD AND I!
AND ONE DAY, HE'LL SAY TO ME:
"ELPHABA, A GIRL WHO IS SO SUPERIOR
SHOULDN'T A GIRL WHO'S SO GOOD INSIDE
HAVE A MATCHING EXTERIOR?
AND SINCE FOLKS HERE TO AN ABSURD DEGREE
SEEM FIXATED ON YOUR VERDIGRIS
WOULD IT BE ALL RIGHT BY YOU
IF I DE-GREENIFY YOU?"
There's a kinetic wind-sculpture. She sees her reflection in
multiple colors.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
AND THOUGH OF COURSE THAT'S
NOT IMPORTANT TO ME
"ALL RIGHT, WHY NOT?" I'LL REPLY
She joyfully spins the sculpture and the wind picks up.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
OH, WHAT A PAIR WE'LL BE
THE WIZARD AND I...
WHAT A PAIR WE'LL BE
THE WIZARD AND--
The wind picks up. The flowers in the garden start to wave.
She comes to an ancient, giant Wisteria tree.
Elphaba hears ECHOES OF CHEERS from somewhere far off. Sh e
crosses under the hanging branches to find another, larger
sculpture, this one of the Wizard's head.
She stares into the moving sculpture, almost trancelike.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
UNLIMITED
MY FUTURE IS UNLIMITED
AND I'VE JUST HAD A VISION
ALMOST LIKE A PROPHECY
She heads behind the sculpture, towards the source of the
wind, which now sounds like-- applause.
23B 23B
EXT. SHIZ - FIELD & EDGE OF CLIFF - DAY
ELPHABA
I KNOW -- IT SOUNDS TRULY CRAZY
AND TRUE, THE VISION'S HAZY
BUT I SWEAR, SOMEDAY THERE'LL BE
A CELEBRATION THROUGHOUT OZ
28
THAT'S ALL TO DO--
WITH ME!
Elphaba crosses into an open field, the grass almost becoming
the cheering crowd... Birds take flight around her.
Elphaba runs through this "cheering crowd," drinking in this
"acclaim," this celebration happening (in nature) around her.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
AND I'LL STAND THERE WITH THE WIZARD
FEELING THINGS I'VE NEVER FELT
AND THOUGH I'D NEVER SHOW IT
I'LL BE SO HAPPY, I COULD MELT
AND SO IT WILL BE
FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE
AND I'LL WANT NOTHING ELSE
TILL I DIE
HELD IN SUCH HIGH ESTEEM
WHEN PEOPLE SEE ME, THEY WILL SCREAM
FOR HALF OF OZ'S FAV'RITE TEAM:
Elphaba looks into the distant horizon. We see she's standing
at the edge of a dramatic cliff overlooking waves that are
made of not water but sand, moving with the wind. This is the
very edge of Oz. She takes in the exhilarating sig ht.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
THE WIZARD--
AND I!
As Elphaba walks away, blowing leaves and flowers whip past
her and fly off the edge of the cliff, fluttering down
towards the sandy shore below.
23C 23C
INT. SHIZ - DORMITORY CORRIDOR - EVENING
Elphaba looks around at the room numbers, looking for hers.
She spots the right door, lets herself in--
24 24
INT. SHIZ - THE GIRLS' DORM ROOM - EVENING
Elphaba's POV: Galinda. The two girls regard each other
warily, like two natural enemies in the wild. Then Elphaba
pushes brusquely past her into the room. She surveys
Galinda's fluffy possessions-- nearly everywhere.
ELPHABA
Do you really think this is fair?
GALINDA
I do not, as I was promised a
private suite. But thanks for
asking!
29
Elphaba moves toward Galinda, who backs away uneasily.
Elphaba moves past Galinda, towards the balcony door...
ELPHABA
(her patience fraying)
I'm just shutting the door!
Galinda moves peremptorily to the door.
GALINDA
Oh, do you mind leaving it open? I
so enjoy... air!
Galinda eyes Elphaba with carefully feigned casualness--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
I saved you some space, by the way.
Galinda gestures grandly to one c orner: where there's a
diminutive daybed next to a tiny table with one drawer.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
(as if she's been thanked)
It was nothing. Roommates do these
things for each other.
As Galinda continues, Elphaba goes to her bed. Sits.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
For instance, and this is just an
example, I could lend you some
clothes, til your luggage arrives.
(Elphaba stares at her)
Since you've-- nothing to wear.
ELPHABA
(jus t honest)
I'll have nothing to wear even
after my luggage arrives.
GALINDA
And in return, perhaps you could--
let's see-- put in a good word for
me? With Madame Morrible? Deal?
Elphaba decides to ignore this. Galinda studies her. Then--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
That was you. Down there. Who made
all that happen.
Elphaba grows uncomfortable.
30
ELPHABA
You heard Madame Morrible.
Galinda moves closer to Elphaba, fascinated.
GALINDA
How did you do it? Tell me.
(Elphaba doesn't answer)
Please? I can keep a secret.
(still nothing)
Fine. Be that way. But it's a bit
selfish on your part, I asked
really nicely, plus, I saved you a
drawer--
ELPHABA
I don't know! I'VE NEVER KNOWN!
Suddenly the DOOR SLAMS SHUT, a pane of glass cracks, then
shatters. Gali nda stares at it, then-- at Elphaba.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
There. A compromise.
25 25
EXT. SHIZ - DORM - LATER THAT NIGHT
All of the windows in the dorm go dark one by one as happy
new ROOMMATES click off their lights for the night. All but
one. In that last window, A PINK LIGHT GOES ON--
26 26
INT. SHIZ - GIRLS' DORM ROOM - NIGHT
By the glow of her pink Ozian lamp, Galinda writes at her
bedside table. She darts a glance over to: Elphaba's bed,
then resumes writing, muttering--
GALINDA
Dearest darlingest Momsie and
Popsical...
And now we see, Elphaba too, is surreptitiously writing home;
also muttering to herself--
ELPHABA
"My dear Father... Thank you for
agreeing to let me stay."
GALINDA
"Guess what?"
ELPHABA
"In regards t o your request that I
move in with Nessa--"
31
GALINDA
"I can't hear your guesses because
this is a letter."
ELPHABA
"I know she wouldn't want me to--"
(crosses that out)
"I know how much she wants to be--"
(crosses that out)
GALINDA
"So I'll just tell you."
Both girls pause: how to phrase this--?
SONG: "WHAT IS THIS FEELING?"
As both girls quietly, yet urgently, compose their letters...
ELPHABA/GALINDA
THERE'S BEEN SOME CONFUSION
OVER ROOMING HERE AT SHIZ
ELPHABA
BUT OF COURSE, I'LL CARE FOR NESSA
GALINDA
BUT OF COURSE, I'LL RISE ABOVE IT
ELPHABA/GALINDA
FOR I KNOW THAT'S HOW YOU'D WANT ME
TO RESPOND
YES, THERE'S BEEN SOME CONFUSION FOR YOU
SEE, MY ROOM-MATE IS...
GALINDA
(searches for words)
UNUSUALLY AND EXCEEDINGLY PECULIAR
AND ALTOGETHER QUITE IMPOSSIBLE TO
DESCRIBE...
Elphaba, too, struggles to describe her roommate. Finally:
ELPHABA
BLONDE.
Both girls sign their letters.
We see them from above, in their respective beds, unable to
sleep. Galinda, in a frilly pink nightie, turns off (in Ozian
manner) her pink bedside night-lamp. Elphaba, clad in worn
underthings, punches her pillow. Both girls suddenly fling
off their cover s, as if hot--
32
GALINDA
WHAT IS THIS FEELING
SO SUDDEN AND NEW
ELPHABA
I FELT THE MOMENT
I LAID EYES ON YOU
They toss and turn on their beds--
GALINDA
MY PULSE IS RUSHING...
ELPHABA
MY HEAD IS REELING..
GALINDA
MY FACE IS FLUSHING...
BOTH
WHAT IS THIS FEELING?
FERVID AS A FLAME
DOES IT HAVE A NAME?
Both sit up, experiencing a private, astounding revelation...
BOTH (CONT'D)
YES!
LOATHING!
They rise, energized-- and come face to face i n the middle of
the room-- what a relief to admit it!
BOTH (CONT'D)
UNADULTERATED LOATHING!
GALINDA
FOR YOUR FACE...
ELPHABA
YOUR VOICE...
GALINDA
YOUR CLOTHING...
Each studies the other, marvels at the depth of revulsion--
BOTH
LET'S JUST SAY-- I LOATHE IT ALL!
Elphaba moves to Galinda's side and turns off the pink lamp.
Galinda is pissed. This is war.
33
27 27
INT. SHIZ - GIRLS' DORM ROOM - MORNING
Elphaba awakes to find herself surrounded by GALINDA'S STUFF.
GALINDA
EV'RY LITTLE TRAIT, HOWEVER SMALL
As Elphaba struggles to get through this pink barricade--
ELPHABA
MAKES MY VERY FLESH BEGIN TO CRAWL
BOTH
WITH SIMPLE UTTER LOATHING
Elphaba emerges disheveled and furious to find Galinda
serenely putting the final touches on her perfect look--
BOTH (CONT'D)
THERE'S A STRANGE EXHILARATION
IN SUCH TOTAL DETE STATION
IT'S SO PURE! SO STRONG!
Galinda exits with a smug smile--
28 28
INT. SHIZ - GIRLS' DORM ROOM - LATER THAT DAY
Galinda enters with Pfannee and ShenShen to find:
HER PINK BELONGINGS now piled haphazardly on Galinda's side
of the room.
Elphaba emerges from the balcony, smiles her own smug smile--
BOTH
THOUGH I DO ADMIT IT CAME ON FAST
STILL I DO BELIEVE THAT IT CAN LAST
AND I WILL BE LOATHING LOATHING YOU
MY WHOLE LIFE LONG!
Elphaba exits, slamming the door, causing the pile of
precious pink stuff to crash down and go everywhere--
Galinda's anger boils over into a scream, as we CUT TO:
29 29
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD/JUST OUTSIDE DINING HALL - DAY
Galinda confidently strides towards the dining hall, trailed
by her many friends.
STUDENTS
DEAR GALINDA YOU ARE JUST TOO GOOD
HOW DO YOU STAND IT? I DON'T THINK I COULD!
SHE'S A TERROR! SHE'S A TARTAR!
34
WE DON'T MEAN TO SHOW A BIAS
BUT GALINDA, YOU'RE A MARTYR!
GALINDA
WELL--
Galinda stops at the entrance to the dining hall, turns back
to her friends--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
THESE THINGS ARE SENT TO TRY US!
Galinda realizes they're all staring past her, through the
glass. She spins around, to see what they're staring at:
GALINDA'S POV: ELPHABA, in the dining hall.
As the Students enter the dining hall...
STUDENTS
POO R GALINDA, FORCED TO RESIDE
WITH SOMEONE SO DISGUSTIKAFIED
WE JUST WANT TO TELL YOU: WE'RE ALL ON YOUR
SIDE!
30 30
INT. DINING HALL - CONTINUOUS
Elphaba looks up from getting her food, to find Galinda and
company all staring coldly at her.
STUDENTS
WE SHARE YOUR--
Elphaba tries to find a seat, but people keep sitting where
she's about to sit.
STUDENTS (CONT'D)
GALINDA AND ELPHABA
WHAT IS THIS FEELING? L OATHING
SO SUDDEN AND NEW? UNADULTERATED LOATHING FOR
I FELT THE MOMENT HER FACE, HER VOICE HER
I LAID EYES ON YOU CLOTHING
MY PULSE IS RUSHING LET'S JUST SAY:
MY HEAD IS REELING WE LOATHE IT ALL! EV'RY
OH, WHAT IS THIS FEELING? LITTLE TRAIT HOWEVER SMALL
DOES IT HAVE A NAME? YES... MAKES OUR VERY FLESH BEGIN TO
AHHH... CRAWL AHHH...
ALL
AHHH--!
Finally Elphaba, defiant, plunks herself down right opposite
Galinda. Galinda's pals, anticipating unpleasantness, take
off, leaving the two roommates to deal with each other.
35
31 31
INT. / EXT - SHIZ CLASSROOM / SPORTS AREA (INTERCUT)
GALINDA AND ELPHABA STUDENTS
LOATHING
THERE'S A STRANGE LOATHING!
EXHILARATION LOATHING!
IN SUCH TOTAL DETESTATION LOATHING!
IT'S SO PURE, SO STRONG! SO STRONG!
ELPHABA/GALINDA
THOUGH I DO ADMIT IT CAME ON FAST
STILL I DO BELIEVE THAT IT CAN LAST
32 32
EXT. SHIZ CAMPUS - QUAD - DAY
Galinda, along with virtually the entire student body,
dances, claiming her victory--
GALINDA AND ELPHABA STUDENTS
AND I WILL BE LOATHING FOR LOATHING
FOREVER LOATHING TRULY, LOATHING
DEEPLY LOATHING YOU LOATHING, LOATHING YOU!
MY WHOLE LIFE LONG!
Suddenly Galinda spots Elphaba, up above, at the entrance to
Morrible's quarters, being greeted by Morrible--
STUDENTS (CONT'D)
LOATHING! UNADULTERATED LOATHING!
33 33
INT. SHIZ - GIRLS' DORM ROOM - EVENING
Galinda enters their room, relieved to find herself alone,
until-- Elphaba pops out at her from the balcony--
ELPHABA
Boo.
Galinda YELPS. Elphaba CACKLES.
33A 33A
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD - EARLY MORNING
Students rush across campus to get to class on time.
34 34
INT. SHIZ - DR. DILLAMOND'S CLASSROOM - DAY
Elphaba enters the History class. As Students, including
Galinda, Pfannee, ShenShen, Boq and Nessa take their seats...
AVARIC (attractive, bookish) goes to take the open seat next
to Nessa, but another STUDENT sits there first, as--
36
DILLAMOND (O.S.)
Settle down, ladies and gentlemen;
settle down now--!
Doctor Dillamond enters...
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
I have read your most recent
essays, and I am amazed to report
some progress. Although some of us
still tend to favor form over
content--
(hands Galinda her paper)
Miss Glllinda.
GALINDA
It's Ga-linda. With a "Ga."
DILLAMOND
Yes, of course.
(he tries, but...)
Glllinda.
GALINDA
(huffily)
I don't see what t he problem is--
every other professor manages to
pronouncify my name.
ELPHABA
Maybe the pronuncifi-cation of your
precious name is not the sole focus
of Doctor Dillamond's life. Maybe
he's not like every other
Professor, maybe some of us are
different!
Nessa shoots her sister a look: quiet!
GALINDA
It seems the artichoke is steamed.
Everyone LAUGHS; Boq LAUGHS a beat too long. Nessa clocks
Boq's amusem ent, starts to LAUGH with him, but then-- she
sees Elphaba's hurt expression and quickly stops herself.
DILLAMOND
We Goats lack upper front teeth.
Which accounts for the
mispronunciation, Miss-- Glllinda.
37
Using an Ozian slide projector (involving mirrors and
sunlight coming through a hole in a window shade) Dillamond
shows them A SUCCESSION OF IMAGES: Animals, contributing to
Ozian society, alongside humans.
On one slide, A FROG AND A RABBIT SCIENTIST, IN GOGGLES AND
LAB COATS, CONDUCT AN EXPERIMENT. In the last slide, we see A
MUCH YOUNGER DILLAMOND, IN SHIZ HALL, LECTURING TO HUMAN AND
ANIMAL STU DENTS-- as WE HEAR:
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
Some of us are different. And there
was a time, before you were born,
when life in Oz was different. When
one could walk these halls, and
hear-- a Snow Leopard, solving an
equation, or an Antelope,
explicating a sonnet. So... when,
and why-- did this change?
Elphaba raises her hand.
ELPHABA
From what I've read, it began with
the Great Drought.
DILLAMOND
Precisely. Food gre w scarce. When
people are hungry, and-- angry,
they begin to look for--
ELPHABA
Someone to blame. [Alt: A
scapegoat.]
Elphaba's eyes meet Dillamond's. Galinda raises her hand.
DILLAMOND
Yes, Miss Gllll--
GALINDA
It's GA-linda. And why can't you
just teach us history, instead of
always harping on the past?
Other students, except Elphaba, MURMUR their agreement.
DILLAMOND
Because we cannot escape the past.
A nd we ignore it at our own peril.
The past helps explain our present
circumstances. For instance, if we
examine this timeline--
38
He flips the chalkboard over: The entire CLASS GASPS.
SCRAWLED IN BLOOD RED PAINT ACROSS DILLAMOND'S TIMELINE:
"animals should be seen and not heard."
Dillamond, shaken, stares at the disturbing words. Elphaba,
horrified, looks from the words, to her teacher...
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
Who is responsible for this?
He waits. Elphaba's anger grows as the shocked students look
at each other, silent, uncomfortable; until finally--
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
Very well, class dismissed.
Elphaba looks like she's going to explode. Seeing this, Nessa
anxiously puts her hand on Elphaba-- when suddenly-- CRASH!
Everyone jumps!
Dillamond has backed into his desk, a vase holding an array
of poppies has fallen-- and lies shattered on the floor.
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
I said class dismissed!
The students scramble out of there, except for Elphaba. She
quietly gathers the poppies that fell from his desk.
ELPHABA
Your lovely poppies!
Elphaba carefully gathers them up, sees a watering can, on
his window le dge, places the poppies in it...
DILLAMOND
(still shaken)
Thank you, you're very kind.
(re: poppies)
They're my favorite. They keep me
cheerful... in these dark times.
She glances again at those awful words on the board, as
Dillamond opens a cupboard, takes out a little broom...
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
Miss Elphaba-- please. Go and join
your friends
ELPHABA
It's alright, I have no friends.
He can't help but LAUGH. Th en...
39
DILLAMOND
Well. Maybe... one.
He smiles. She smiles back. He starts to sweep up the broken
glass as Elphaba walks past the blood red words... and exits.
MORRIBLE (PRE-LAP)
Try again.
35 35
INT. SHIZ - MORRIBLE'S QUARTERS - DAY
Elphaba stands in front of a table with an Ozian coin placed
on it. Morrible, nearby, provides quiet guidance...
MORRIBLE
Eyes shut. Toes clenched. Are your
toes clenched?
ELPHABA
I-- think so.
MORRIBLE
And picture it. Are you picturing?
Elphaba nods... eyes shut... clenching... picturing...
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Now... levitate the coin.
Elphaba takes a deep breath... tries. Then-- opens her eyes:
The coin hasn't b udged. Elphaba slams the table with her fist
in frustration. Morrible grabs her hand, concerned, motherly.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
I hear there was an unfortunate
disturbance in Doctor Dillamond's
class today. That must have been
distressful for you.
Elphaba nods, relieved: she understands.
ELPHABA
Someone wrote those horrendible
words, on purpose, for him to see--
I just wish--
She breaks off, pacing now, fists clenched, rage building--
MORRIBLE
(egging her on)
What. You wish-- what?
40
ELPHABA
That there was something I could
do! Because no one should be--
Elphaba breaks off, stares at the coin, like she's thinking--
if only I could levitate that, maybe I could do something.
MORRIBLE
No one should be what?
ELPHABA
Scorned, or laughed at, or looked
down upon, or told to stop
jabbering AND KEEP QUIET!
The coin suddenly FLIES from the table at high speed, like a
BULLET, smashing into the mirror on Morrible's mantle.
Madame Morrible stares at her with admiration. Even... awe.
MORRIBLE
Remarkable. Absolutely remarkable.
Elphaba stares at the shattered glass, shocked.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Once you learn to harness your
emotions... the sky's the limit.
Elphaba absorbs this. Inspired by it.
36 36
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD - DUSK
Elphaba exits Morrible's quarters, lost in thought, heading
back to her dorm when she catches sight of:
Doctor Dillamond, hurriedly crossing the quad.
ELPHABA
Doctor Dillamond! Did you find out
who--
But he either doesn't hear or is too intent on where he's
going to stop... He races off. She rushes after him.
37 37
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF SHIZ CAMPUS - DUSK
Elphaba, breathless, approaches a remote area of campus,
passing a dilapidated sign: "Faculty Housing -- ANIMAL."
Nestled amongst a few small, odd buildings that have fallen
into disrepair, Elphaba finds... one light on, in one house.
41
38 38
INT./EXT. DILLAMOND'S DWELLING - DUSK
Elphaba approaches, hesitates-- is about to knock when she
hears her teacher's voice:
DILLAMOND (O.S.)
This is much bigger than just some
words on a chalkboard.
Elphaba freezes, listens--
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
We Animals are now being blamed for
everything that goes wrong. Forced
from our jobs. Told to keep silent.
Elphaba moves to the window, peers through the crack in the
curtain. (She hears snippets, sees on ly pieces...)
ELPHABA'S POV: Dillamond huddles with the Bird Professor, and
other Animals: a LEOPARD, a DEER, an OWL, a FROG, TAMARIN,
and a SQUIRREL, all speak in tense, urgent WHISPERS...
DEER
We can still converse in private,
thank Oz.
LEOPARD
Not after dark. Not without a
speech permit.
Outside, Elphaba is troubled by what she's hearing...
DILLAMOND
A dear friend of mine--
DEER
A Deer?
DILLAMOND
A Co w, actually. She's been
speaking out, at protests, and
recently wrote me, asking to meet
at a cafe. She said it was
urgent... That day, I was shown to
their new non-speaking section.
Dillamond, using an Ozian contraption, lights his pipe...
BIRD
And? What did your Deer friend--
SQUIRREL/FROG
Cow--
42
LEOPARD
What did she tell you?
DILLAMOND
She never showed. And no one's seen
her since.
A silence, as this sinks in. Then...
TAMARIN
Yesterday a Badger acquaintance, a
solicitor, was sacked. Just for
arguing a case!
OWL
Who?
DILLAMOND
At least he can still argue.
LEOPARD
What do you mean??
Dillamond puffs his pipe. Then looks back at them, grave.
Outside, Elphaba is riveted...
SONG: "SOMETHING BAD"
DILLAMOND
I'VE HEARD OF AN OX
A PROFESSOR FROM QUOX
NO LONGER PERMITTED TO TEACH
WHO HAS LOST ALL POWERS OF SPEECH!
Shocked by this, the Bird, Deer, Tamarin, Owl, Leopard,
Squirrel and Frog all MURMUR to each other...
Outside, Elphaba, also deeply shaken by this, peers closer--
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
AND AN OWL IN MUNCHKIN ROCK
A VICAR WITH A THRIVING FLOCK
FORBIDDEN TO PREACH
NOW HE ONLY CAN SCREECH
ONLY RUMORS -- BU T STILL --
ENOUGH TO GIVE PAUSE
TO ANYONE WITH PAWS
SOMETHING BAD IS HAPPENING IN OZ--
As the other Animals MURMUR anxiously:
ANIMALS
SOMETHING BAD, HAPPENING IN--
43
LEOPARD
That's it! I'm leaving Oz! While I
can still speak the word "goodbye."
DEER
Leave Oz?
The Owl, Tamarin, Squirrel and Frog all react, alarmed.
Outside, Elphaba, equally shocked, takes a step backwards,
steadies herself against the window for a moment. And then--
AN IMAGE FLASHES before her eyes in BLACK AND WHITE: it looks
like a barnyard. Animals, unclothed, fenced in , emitting
PLAINTIVE SOUNDS...
Elphaba GASPS. Then, she blinks, coming back to reality,
confused and troubled by what she's just seen.
Inside, hearing her gasp, the Animals freeze-- ears twitch,
fur and feathers stand at attention. Dillamond moves swiftly
to his door, sticks his head out, and sees...
DILLAMOND
Miss Elphaba?! What are you doing
here?
Before she can respond, he looks around; motions h er inside.
Elphaba enters and is startled to find: The other Animals are
gone-- the back window flung open. Dillamond quickly shuts
it, drawing the curtains.
ELPHABA
Doctor Dillamond, what you were
describing just now-- could
something like that really happen?
He regards her, his wise eyes grave.
DILLAMOND
It is happening.
He removes his spectacles to clean them, drops them, rattled.
Elphaba picks them up, hands them to him. Their eyes meet.
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
If you make it discouraging enough,
you can keep anyon e silent.
ELPHABA
But, Doctor Dillamond, if Animals--
44
DILLAMOND
Shhh!
There's a SOUND-- is someone out there? Elphaba rushes to the
window and peeks out: Sees nothing. But Dillamond's nervous.
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
You'd better go.
He moves to the door. She follows him, then--
ELPHABA
If Animals are losing the ability
to speak-- leaving Oz-- someone's
got to tell the Wizard.
DILLAMOND
Listen to me. You cannot tell
another soul what you've heard and
seen here tonight!
ELPHABA
But-- that's why we have a Wizard!
(sings softly)
SO NOTHING BAD
He looks at her. And actually appears to be considering this.
Or is he just trying to mollify her--?
DILLAMOND
Perhaps you're right.
BOTH
NOTHING ALL THAT BAD
NOTHING TRULY--
DILLAMOND
(suddenly BLEATS)
BAAAAAD.
They're both completely unnerved by this frightening,
unfamiliar sound. The Goat CLEARS HIS THROAT, tries to cover--
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
Sorry. I must be-- catching a cold.
She nods, troubled. He opens the door, she starts out, turns
back; something makes her say...
ELPHABA
Oz bless you, Doctor Dillamond.
He abruptly shuts the door.
45
OUTSIDE, ELPHABA STANDS THERE, her head reeling with
everything she's witnessed, she SINGS SOFTLY TO HERSELF...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
IT COULDN'T HAPPEN HERE
IN OZ ....
39 39
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF SHIZ CAMPUS - NIGHT
As Elphaba heads back towards her dorm, THE WIND PICKS UP
AROUND HER. Spooked, she glances around-- is she being
followed? She listens. Is that someone WHISPERING, or just
the leaves? Suddenly-- HOOF BEATS! She looks up--
A powerful multicolored HORSE is galloping straight towards
her, about to trample her!
Elphaba leaps out of the way, stumbles, falls into a thicket--
The Horse stops short, turns to his rider, a strikingly
beautiful young man in casual (yet princely) attire: FIYERO
TIGELAAR.
HORSE
(to Fiyero)
I didn't see her!
FIYERO
Nor did I--
Fiyero dismounts, goes to Elphaba--
FIYERO (CONT'D)
I'm sorry, Miss, we didn't--
She looks up, the moonlight hits her face, he's taken aback
by the green-- but not judgmental. He holds out his hand--
FIYERO (CONT'D)
--see you. You must've-- blended in
with the foliage.
S he scrambles to her feet, leaving his hand untouched,
brushes herself off, as, to cover her self-consciousness--
ELPHABA
Is this how you go through life,
running amok, nearly trampling
anyone in your path?
FIYERO
Well, sometimes I'm asleep.
He studies her. She sighs--
46
ELPHABA
Here we go...
ELPHABA (CONT'D) FIYERO
No, I'm not seasick! Me either.
ELPHABA (CONT'D) FIYERO (CONT'D)
Nor did I eat grass, as a You didn't? I did.
child!
ELPHABA (CONT'D) FIYERO (CONT'D)
And yes, I've always been And the defensiveness-? Is
green! that a recent development?
Elphaba looks at him a moment then turns, and stalks off.
Fiyero WHISTLES a distinctive whistle, and his Horse
immediately comes over to him, then... WHISPERS to him.
FIYE RO (CONT'D)
(to the Horse)
I'll ask.
(calling out to Elphaba)
I'm off for more trampling; may we
offer you a ride?
ELPHABA
(without looking back)
Get stuffed.
FIYERO
(to his Horse)
Well, Feldspur, we've been spurned
by a girl. I guess there's a first
time for everything!
He climbs on. They gallop past Elphaba. She watches them go--
40 40
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD - DAY
--SLAP! An OZIAN PAPERBOY drops a stack of newspapers:
"PRINCE FIYERO OF WINKIE COUNTRY SPOTTED AT SHIZ!"
A FAST-PACED MONTAGE of sound and images as we follow the
news of Fiyero's arrival getting passed along campus with an
upbeat, rhythmic feel:
--SWICK! The boy cuts the twine. WHOOSH. The wind picks up a
single newspaper, which floats away until--
--SWACK! STUDENT 1 catches it in the air. DING! He tosses an
Ozian coin at the Paperboy and reads as he walks until--
47
--The wind grabs it, and as Boq rides by on an Ozian bicycle,
it gets caught in the spokes -- FUP, FUP, FUP -- Boq pulls it
out, surprised by the headline, but then--
--Pfannee and ShenShen walk by, SEE FIYERO'S PICTURE, grab
the newspaper out of his hands.
--ShenShen and Pfannee yank the paper back and forth until
the wind grabs it again, and it flies UP, UP, UP, and the
RHYTHM CRESCENDOS all the way to...
--the open dorm-room window, where Galinda is greeting the
day. SMACK! The paper hits her in the face. She peels it off,
annoyed, but then instantly riveted...
--In the last beats of the rhythm, we speed through Galinda
feverishly prepping herself: makeup, eyes, hair, and...
SMASH TO:
41 41
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD - DAY
Galinda explodes out the door, dressed to the nines,
surveying her surroundings like a shark seeking out its prey.
She sees a group of Students WHISPERING. Then-- she spots
Fiyero. He's studying a campus map, seemingly oblivious to
those Students stealing glances at him. As Pfannee, ShenShen
and a few others edge hesitantly towards Fiyero--
Galinda strides right up to him, like they know each oth er.
GALINDA
Were you looking for something? Or--
someone?
He looks at her, first confused, then amused.
FIYERO
No, I was... what was I doing?
GALINDA
How should I know?
FIYERO
Our first fight.
They assess each other, pleased by what they see.
GALINDA
Well, I promised to give a guided
tour to any recently arrived
students, so...
(MORE)
48
GALINDA (CONT'D)
(as if just realizing)
Oh, wait... are you...?
FIYERO
I am. Though I'm sure I won't last
longer at this school than at any
of the others.
She smiles her Galinda smile.
GALINDA
But I wasn't at any of your other
schools.
He smiles back.
42 42
INT. SHIZ UNIVERSITY LIBRARY - DAY
Elphaba, seated alone with her sister at a study table, looks
up from her history textbook, whispers, to Nessa:
ELPHABA
I met the rudest person last night.
But Nessa is preoccupied, glancing surreptitiously over at--
Boq, who is searching the stacks...
NESSA
Uh-huh.
As Elphaba watches, Avaric approaches Nessa's table, points
to an open chair--
AVARIC
May I?
Nessa pulls her attention from Boq, nods yes to Avaric.
AVARIC (CONT'D)
I'm Avaric. From history.
They share a smile, then... Nessa glances back at Boq.
AVARIC (CONT'D)
The class?
Nessa looks back at Avaric, distracted.
NESSA
What? Oh. Yes.
...just as Galinda enters, with Fiyero...
49
GALINDA
And this is the-- book place!
Students look up, notice Fiyero-- AN EXCITED BUZZ STARTS UP.
ELPHABA
(to Nessa)
And there he is, with Galinda of
course. They deserve each other.
BACK ON GALINDA AND FIYERO:
GALINDA
There's a collection of rare books,
somewhere... and I guess some
medium-rare books too...
Fiyero is checking out the female students...
FIYERO
I see! So many to choose from.
As Fiyero chec ks out girls, his eyes accidentally meet
Elphaba's. He recognizes her, starts to wave hello-- but
Elphaba quickly looks away. Flustered, she takes refuge in
the Alchemy section, as Galinda guides Fiyero into...
ANOTHER SECTION. They're alone, except for Boq, who climbs a
nearby library ladder, pretending to peruse an upper shelf.
FIYERO (CONT'D)
What do you do for fun around here?
GALINDA
Nothing. Until now.
F IYERO
Ever been to the Ozdust Ballroom?
GALINDA
(impressed)
But isn't it somewhat-- exclusive?
I mean illegal? I mean--
scandalacious?
Galinda tosses her hair again, possibly hitting herself a
little too hard in the face, in her excitement.
FIYERO
It's all of those things! Also not
far from here. Another plus!
He notices Boq, at his eye level, on the ladder.
50
FIYERO (CONT'D)
(to Boq)
Right?
(friendly)
Fiyero Tigelaar. Winkie Country.
Boq's a bit thrown by his hard-to-resist friendliness--
BOQ
Boq Woodsman. Of Munchkinland.
They shake, Boq nearly falls. Fiyero helps him down, as...
GALINDA
(to Fiyero; more hair
tossing)
What were you saying, about the
Ozdust, and fun, and you and me...?
Boq tries desperately to derail their fledgling plans--
BOQ
Unfortunately it's again st Shiz
rules to go into town after dark...
FIYERO
Well, I see that, once again, the
responsibility to corrupt my
fellow students falls... to me.
He throws an arm around his new pal, Boq, moves off with him,
Galinda hurries after them--
SONG: "DANCING THROUGH LIFE"
FIYERO (CONT'D)
(to Boq)
THE TROUBLE WITH SCHOOLS IS
THEY ALWAYS TRY TO TEACH THE WRONG LESSON
BELIEVE ME, I'VE BEEN KICKED OUT
OF ENOUGH OF THEM TO KNOW
THEY WANT YOU TO BECOME LESS CALLOW
LESS SHALLOW
BUT I SAY: WHY INVITE STRESS IN?
STOP STUDYING STRIFE
AND LEARN TO LIVE `THE UNEXAMINED LIFE'
Fiyero hops onto a table...
FIYERO (CONT'D)
DANCING THROUGH LIFE
SKIMMING THE SURFACE
GLIDING WHERE TURF IS SMOOTH
LIFE'S MORE PAINLES S
51
FOR THE BRAINLESS
WHY THINK TOO HARD?
WHEN IT'S SO SOOTHING
Books are shutting, tumbling off shelves-- tossed aside--
FIYERO (CONT'D)
DANCING THROUGH LIFE
NO NEED TO TOUGH IT
WHEN YOU CAN SLUFF IT OFF AS I DO
NOTHING MATTERS
BUT KNOWING NOTHING MATTERS
IT'S JUST LIFE
SO KEEP DANCING THROUGH...
Fiyero leaps into a circular book-case... as Elphaba, unable
to concentrate, slams her Alchemy book shut.
ELPHABA
What are you doing?!
Various Students SHUSH her, as--
GALINDA
(to Elphaba)
Do you mind? Some of us are trying
to learn something?!
FIYERO
DANCING THROUGH LIFE
SWAYING AND SWEEPING
AND ALWAYS KEEPING COOL
LIFE IS FRAUGHT LESS
WHEN YOU'RE THOUGHTLESS
THOSE WHO DON'T TRY
NEVER LOOK FOOLISH
DANCING THROUGH LIFE
MINDLESS AND CARELESS
MAKE SURE YOU'RE WHERE LESS
TROUBLE IS RIFE
WOES ARE FLEETING
BLOWS ARE GLANCING
WHEN YOU'RE DANC ING...
THROUGH LIFE...
The Librarian tries to restore order, but Fiyero tosses her a
romance novel. She starts to read it, becomes engrossed; as--
FIYERO (CONT'D)
LET'S GO DOWN TO THE OZDUST BALLROOM
WE'LL MEET THERE LATER TONIGHT
WE CAN DANCE TILL IT'S LIGHT
FIND THE PRETTIEST GIRL
GIVE `ER A WHIRL
52
RIGHT ON DOWN TO THE OZDUST BALLROOM
COME ON-- FOLLOW ME
YOU'LL BE HAPPY TO BE THERE...
ALL
DANCING THROUGH LIFE
DOWN AT THE OZDUST...
FIYERO
IF ONLY BECAUSE DUST
IS WHAT WE COME TO...
ALL
NOTHING MATTERS
BUT KNOWING NOTHING MATTERS
IT'S JUST LIFE...
STUDENTS
AHHHH...
FIYERO
SO KEEP DANCING THROUGH...
Galinda, breathless from dancing (and from proximity to
Fiyero) fans herself.
BOQ
Galinda--?
He offers her a handke rchief. She takes it, dabs her face,
then offers it back to him, he shakes his head--
BOQ (CONT'D)
Keep it, I've got many.
(beat)
I cry a lot.
Boq immediately regrets this admission, gathers his nerve--
BOQ (CONT'D)
I hope you'll save a dance for me
tonight. I'll be right there.
Waiting. All night.
GALINDA
Oh-- that's so kind, Bick.
BOQ
Technically it's Boq.
Galinda hesitates. She doesn't want to hurt his feelings
but... just then, Galinda notices Nessa, at the other end of
the library, and a lightbulb goes off.
53
GALINDA
But you know what would be even
kinder?
(pointing to Nessa)
SEE THAT TRAGIC'LY BEAUTIFUL GIRL
THE ONE IN THE CHAIR
IT SEEMS SO UNFAIR
WE SHOULD GO ON A SPREE
AND NOT SHE
GEE--
I KNOW SOMEONE WOULD BE MY HERO
IF THAT SOMEONE WERE
TO GO INVITE HER...
BOQ
Well, maybe I could invite her.
GALINDA
OH, BICK, REALLY?
YOU WOULD DO THAT FOR ME?
BOQ
I would do anything for you.
Boq rushes off. Galinda exhales, relieved . She turns: there's
Fiyero, watching her. Appreciating her moves.
FIYERO
(game recognizes game)
You're good.
GALINDA
It was nothing. I love helping
others. Oh, and I happen to be free
tonight. After all--
(sings)
NOW THAT WE'VE MET ONE ANOTHER...
FIYERO/GALINDA
IT'S CLEAR WE DESERVE EACH OTHER
GALINDA
YOU'RE PERFECT...
FIYERO
YOU'RE PERFECT...
BOTH
SO WE'RE PERFECT TOGETHER
BORN TO BE FOREVER...
DANCING THROUG H LIFE!
Galinda and Fiyero exit the library together.
54
43 43
OMITTED
44 44
INT. SHIZ UNIVERSITY LIBRARY - ANOTHER PART - CONTINUOUS
Elphaba, annoyed, picking up scattered books, glances up to
see: Boq, waving goodbye, to a beaming Nessa--
Elphaba goes over to her. Nessa turns to her, in happy shock.
NESSA
That perfectly adorable Munchkin
boy finally asked me out!
ELPHABA
Oh Nessa...! I had a feeling Avaric
was interested!
NESSA
Who? Oh, no, not Avaric. Boq!
ELPHABA
Oh.
NESSA
Elphaba, he's everything I ever
wanted!
ELPHABA
Well-- good! I just thought--
NESSA
He said he was too shy to ask me,
at first, but then, Galinda
emboldened him--
ELPHABA
What? Galinda?!
But Nessa won't tolerate any more Galinda bashing--
NESSA
Don't! Don't you dare say another
word against her! I'm about to have
the happiest night of my life,
thanks to Galinda!
(sings)
FIN'LLY FOR THIS ONE NIGHT
I'M ABOUT TO HAVE A FUN NIGHT
WITH THIS MUNCHKIN BOY
GALINDA FOUND FOR M E
AND I ONLY WISH THERE WERE
SOMETHING I COULD DO FOR HER
TO REPAY HER
55
ELPHABA, SEE?
WE DESERVE EACH OTHER
AND GALINDA HELPED IT COME TRUE
WE DESERVE EACH OTHER
ME AND BOQ...
Please, Elphaba, try to understand.
Elphaba, seeing her joy, takes Nessa's hand; reminding us of
that moment when Little Elphaba held her baby sister's hand.
ELPHABA
I DO.
OFF ELPHABA, her surprise and emotion, at Galinda's kindness--
45 45
OMITTED
46 46
EXT. SHIZ CAMPUS - DORMITORIES - EVENING
Inside each window, STUDENTS prepare for a wild night.
47 47
INT. THE GIRLS' DORM ROOM - EVENING
Galinda is being fastened into her party frock by Pfannee--
as ShenShen looks through one of Galinda's many trunks.
PFANNEE
Uh... Galinda...?
ShenShen pulls out a tall pointy black hat, holding it at a
distance, like it smells.
PFANNEE (CONT'D)
Explain!
SHENSHEN
Ew! What even is that?
Galinda grabs the hat, laughs to mask her embarrassment.
GALINDA
Oh dear, my granny makes me the
most hideoteous hats!
(off their judge-y looks)
I'd give it away, but-- I don't
hate anyone that much.
They just keep looking at her, a mischievous challenge.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Oh no. I couldn't. Could I?
56
Suddenly Elphaba enters, with an armful of books. Pfannee and
ShenShen give a private smirk to Galinda, then--
PFANNEE
Well, we should--
SHENSHEN
--go, we have to--
PFANNEE/SHENSHEN
--accessorize each other! See you
soon!
(like they're all friends)
See you, Elphaba!
They exit. Galinda turns, surprised to see Elphaba, still
clutching her books, enter her territory.
ELPHABA
Galinda-- Nessa and I were talking.
About you, and--
She takes a breath, puts down her alchemy and magic books. On
top of this stack is her notebook with "Sorcery Seminar"
written on it. Galinda eyes this with a stab of envy. Then--
GALINDA
And we were just talking about you!
How you should join us tonight!
ELPHABA
(after a beat)
I don't follow.
GALINDA
(with charades gestures)
You. Join. Us. A t the Ozdust.
I'm inviting you!
ELPHABA
Why.
GALINDA
Because everyone will be there. And
don't tell me you've nothing to
wear, you could wear-- let's see--
She looks around, then-- holds the black hat out to Elphaba.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
--this!
Elphaba's taken aback. Galinda seems really sincere.
57
GALINDA (CONT'D)
I mean, it goes with everything you
own!
(sings)
IT'S REALLY, UH, SHARP, DON'T YOU THINK?
YOU KNOW BLACK IS THIS YEAR'S PINK!
YOU DESERVE EACH OTHER
THIS HAT AND YOU
YOU'RE BOTH SO-- SMART
YOU DESERVE EACH OTHER
SO HERE, OUT OF THE GOODNESS OF MY HEART.
Elphaba takes the hat, thrown by this second, unexpected show
of generosity: have I misjudged this girl...?
48 48
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD - NIGHT
Students, including Galinda and Fiyero, all dressed for a
night on the town, move stealthily through the quad--
48A 48A
EXT. SHIZ CAMPUS - ENTRANCE COURTYARD - NIGHT
The Students hurry to the water's edge, pile into waiting
boats...
Except Fiyero. He waits, and now we see why: Boq and Nessa
appear. Fiyero greets Boq like they're old friends, then
makes sure Nessa gets safely into a boat--
Galinda takes this in. Falling a little in love.
49 49
EXT. SHIZ - MORRIBLE'S QUARTERS - NIGHT
Elphaba hesitates, then-- KNOCKS. After a beat, Morrible
opens the door, dressed for bed, and surprised to see her
prize student.
50 50
EXT. LAKESIDE FOREST - NIGHT
Fiyero confidently leads the group along the lake's edge and
through the woods.
As they pass some night-blooming flowers, Fiyero leans down
to a pink flower, politely--
FIYERO
May I--?
The Flower graciously dips its petals, and he gently picks
it, presents it to Galinda. She's blown away.
The group follows Fiyero towards a giant LOTUS LEAF, with a
large Turtle standing beside it.
58
The Turtle sees Fiyero, and immediately holds out a paw, they
"shake," and the Turtle snaps onto an enormous lotus leaf,
and pulls it back, revealing
A door. Fiyero tosses the Turtle a coin, and the impressed
Students follow him-- Galinda and Nessa trading excited looks
as they move through the door, into... Darkness.
It's dark. Led by Fiyero; Galinda, Boq, Nessa, and the others
make their way dow n, into--
51-52 51-52
OMITTED
53 53
INT. THE OZDUST - NIGHT
A WAVE OF SOUND and UNUSUAL SIGHTS welcome the group as they
enter this BALLROOM.
The atmosphere is deliciously illicit. A pumped CROWD (some
ANIMALS, some PEOPLE) animates the dance floor.
A SWINGING BAND -- (a mix of ANIMAL and HUMAN MUSICIANS)
BLASTS AWAY on the make-shift stage.
Fiyero procures a pitcher of punch... and everyone toasts!
Fiyero pulls Galinda out onto the dance floor, and the others
join them, dancing with wild abandon. All except--
Boq and Nessa, who are off to the side... silent. Until--
NESSA
What's in the punch?
BOQ
Lemons and melons and pears.
NESSA
Oh my.
BOQ
And... a boatload of liquor.
Boq gulps down the entire glass as Nessa takes another small
sip. Neither knows what to say next. Boq sneaks a look at
Galinda, dancing close, with Fiyero. It hurts. He feels like
a frau d, tries to come clean--
BOQ (CONT'D)
Listen, Nessa...
NESSA
Yes?
59
BOQ
UH, NESSA
I'VE GOT SOMETHING TO CONFESS-- A
REASON WHY-- WELL-- WHY I ASKED YOU HERE
TONIGHT
AND I KNOW IT ISN'T FAIR--
NESSA
Oh Boq. I know why.
BOQ
You do?
NESSA
IT'S BECAUSE I'M IN THIS CHAIR
AND YOU FELT SORRY FOR ME--
WELL? ISN'T THAT RIGHT?
BOQ
(genuinely surprised)
What? No! I don't feel sorry for
you. You're great! I just... I
asked you because...
He looks at Galinda and just then-- she kisses Fi yero for the
first time.
BOQ (CONT'D)
Because...
Boq turns back to Nessa... but can't bring himself to tell
her the whole truth--
BOQ (CONT'D)
BECAUSE YOU ARE SO BEAUTIFUL!
NESSA
OH BOQ, I THINK YOU'RE WONDERFUL
AND WE DESERVE EACH OTHER
DON'T YOU SEE, THIS IS OUR CHANCE?
WE DESERVE EACH OTHER
DON'T WE, BOQ?
Galinda and Fiyero dance past Boq.
BOQ
YOU KNOW WHAT?
Desperate to overcome this heartache, he turns to Nessa--
BOQ (CONT'D)
LET'S D ANCE!
60
NESSA
What?
BOQ
LET'S DAAAAANCE!
He pulls her onto the dance floor, and they dance! It's
exuberant, and joyous; Nessa's having the time of her life.
Avaric, dancing with another GIRL, is distracted by Nessa's
beauty and exuberance-- partly happy for her, partly wishing
she was dancing with him...
Galinda clocks Boq and Nessa, happily dancing, relieved:
everything worked out. Thanks to me!
54 54
EXT. LAKESIDE FOREST - NIGHT
Morrible, wrapped in a dramatic cape, emerges with
difficulty, and somewhat the worse for wear, from the tangle
of foliage... and comes face to face with the snapping
Turtle. He starts to SNAP at her-- but she draws herself up
and glares at him, and the Turtle folds like a cheap suit.
55 55
INT. THE OZDUST - SAME
A SONG ENDS-- everyone on the dance floor APPLAUDS. Just
then, Morrible appears. Our group stops in their tracks.
Morrible approaches a stunned Galinda.
MORRIBLE
You.
Galinda is frozen with fear, but also-- a little tipsy.
GALINDA
Me?
Morrible takes her hand, leads her away, as...
MORRIBLE
The rest of you can go on doing--
whatever this is.
The others breathe sighs of relief as Galinda, with an
anx ious backward glance to her friends, follows Morrible to:
A PRIVATE NOOK, NEARBY--
Galinda regards her idol, and (due to tipsiness and fandom)
can't hold back--
61
GALINDA
Madame Morrible, you are-- no,
seriously, I admire you so, soooo--
MORRIBLE
Enough.
Morrible reaches into her cape, pulls out... a wand.
GALINDA
A magic wand!? It's-- It's--
(a teeny bit disappointed)
It's so small.
MORRIBLE
It's a training wand.
GALINDA
(takes it, overwhelmed)
Oh, Madame-- how can I express my
gratitution?! It is my heart's
desire to become a sorceress. Thank
you. For having faith in me!
MORRIBLE
I have no faith in you, dear. This
was your roommate's idea, not mine.
Galinda's confused.
GALINDA
I'm confused.
MORRIBLE
Miss E lphaba has requested that I
include you in our sorcery seminar--
she insisted I tell you this very
night, or she would quit.
GALINDA
She did? But why?
MORRIBLE
I'm a sorceress, not a mind reader!
I've no idea why! But I cannot risk
losing her. So-- here I am.
Morrible regards Galinda, tries her best to be-- kind.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
My personal opinion, dear, is that
you do not have-- what it takes. I
hope you pr ove me wrong. I doubt
you will.
(MORE)
62
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
(beat)
You might want to thank her. She's
on her way.
Suddenly Galinda is stone cold sober.
GALINDA
What?
MORRIBLE
Well, you invited her.
(looks around, mutters)
I need a drink.
Morrible sweeps away. Galinda starts back to her friends,
stops short, seeing:
GALINDA
(a guilt-ridden whisper)
Oh no.
Elphaba appears in the entryway, wearing the black pointy
hat.
There's a RIPPLE OF REACTION; as others spot her-- S NICKERS
AND WHISPERS, the students stop dancing, stare, point. Even
the Musicians STOP PLAYING, staring... at the weird, green
girl in the ridiculous eyesore of a hat.
Elphaba takes in the reaction around her, realizing: she's
been tricked. She yanks the hat off, locks eyes with:
Galinda, who stares back at her, flooded with remorse.
Elphaba starts to leave. But then--
She suddenly strides angrily to the center of the dance
floor, and defiantly slams the hat ba ck on her head.
Backing away, Nessa whispers to Boq...
NESSA
I can't watch.
Elphaba starts to slowly dance by herself. In an
idiosyncratic manner all her own.
FIYERO
I'll say this much, she doesn't
give a twig what anyone thinks.
GALINDA
Of course she does. She just
pretends not to.
(MORE)
63
GALINDA (CONT'D)
(looking at the wand)
I feel awful.
FIYERO
Why? It's not like it's your fault.
Galinda looks at him, then hands him the wand, and crosses to
Elphaba, still dancing alone. Galinda taps her shoulder.
GALINDA
May I cut in?
Elphaba turns, Galinda hesitates, then, as best she can,
imitates Elphaba's unique moves. The MUSICIANS START UP
AGAIN, matching her moves. Elphaba watches, coldly.
But as Galinda conti nues to dance in Elphaba's style-- it
becomes an offering of friendship.
As Galinda dances, she whirls and comes face to face with
Pfannee and ShenShen. Disgusted, they whisper harshly...
PFANNEE SHENSHEN
What are you doing? Stop!
Galinda hesitates, but then-- she turns her back on them, and
returns to Elphaba.
The two roommates dance together. It's fluid,
interconnected... inspired...
Other students gradually pick up the moves until everyone,
even Pfannee and ShenShen, are dancing, Elphaba-style.
Nessa, Boq, and Fiyero join Galinda and Elphaba, and suddenly
the five of them are dancing together, as though they'd known
each other all their lives...
ALL
DANCING THROUGH LIFE
HERE AT THE OZDUST
IF ONLY BECAUSE DUST
IS WHAT WE COME TO
AND HERE 'S A STRANGE THING:
YOUR LIFE COULD END UP CHANGING
WHILE YOU'RE DANCING
THROUGH!
56 56
INT. SHIZ - GIRLS' DORM ROOM - LATER THAT NIGHT
Elphaba shrugs out of her clothes, Galinda brushes her teeth
at the washbasin, as they continue bonding...
64
GALINDA
That was your very first party?
(spits)
Ever?
Elphaba yanks her worn nightgown over her head--
ELPHABA
Do funerals count?
Galinda takes the pink flower Fiyero gave her from her hair,
places it carefully in a glass of water...
The girls flop on Elphaba's bed, regard each other.
GALINDA
I couldn't remotely sleep.
ELPHABA
Me neither.
GALINDA
I know! Let's each tell the other
something we've never told an yone!
I'll go first: Fiyero and I are
getting married!
ELPHABA
He asked you already?
GALINDA
Oh, he doesn't know yet.
(beat)
Now you tell me a secret.
ELPHABA
Like what?
GALINDA
Like-- why do you sleep with this--
(grabs it)
--little green bottle under your
pillow?
ELPHABA
Give that back!
GALINDA
(holding it out of reach)
Come on-- tell!
A beat, Elphaba manages to control her emotions...
65
ELPHABA
It was my mother's, that's all.
Elphaba grabs the bottle, shoves it back under her pillow.
GALINDA
Well that's not fair, I told you a
really good one.
Galinda stands, and crosses to her side of the room, and
turns on her pink light. Elphaba rises, and moves to
Galinda's side. After a beat--
ELPHABA
My father hates me.
Galinda GASPS. Elphaba's amused.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
That's not the secret. The secret
is. .. He has a good reason.
(a statement of fact)
It's my fault.
GALINDA
What, what is?
ELPHABA
That my sister is-- the way she is.
(a beat)
When our mother was carrying Nessa,
our father began to worry. That the
new baby might come out...
GALINDA
Green?
Elphaba nods. She's never spoken about this-- to anyone.
ELPHABA
He was so worried, he made our
mother chew milk flowers, day and
night. Only it made Nessa c ome too
soon... with her little legs all
tangled. And our mother... never
woke up.
Galinda takes this in.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
None of which would ever have
happened... if not for me.
66
GALINDA
But that was the milkflowers'
fault, not yours.
Galinda looks at Elphaba and for the first time-- sees her.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
That may be your secret, Elphaba.
But it doesn't make it true.
She also sees that Elphaba still believes it. To lighten
things, Galinda looks out the window: the sun is rising.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Look-- it's tomorrow! And Elphie--
may I call you Elphie?
ELPHABA
It's a little perky.
GALINDA
And you can call me... Galinda.
ELPHABA
It's your name.
GALINDA
Let's not quarrel. Because Elphie--
now that we're friends, I've
decided to make you my new project!
ELPHABA
You really don't have to do that.
GALINDA
I know! That's what makes me so
nice!
SONG: "POPULAR"
GALINDA (CONT'D)
WHENEVER I SEE SOMEONE
LESS FORTUNATE THAN I
(AND LET'S FACE IT--WHO ISN'T
LESS FORTUNATE THAN I?)
MY TENDER HEART
TENDS TO START TO BLEED...
AND WHEN SOMEONE NEEDS A MAKEOVER
I SIMPLY HAVE TO TAKE OVER
I KNOW I KNOW EXACTLY WHAT THEY NEED
AND EVEN IN YOUR CASE
(removing Elphaba's
glasses)
67
THO' IT'S THE TOUGHEST CASE I'VE YET TO
FACE
(putting Elphaba's glasses
back on her)
DON'T WORRY-- I'M DETERMINED TO SUCCEED
FOLLOW MY LEAD
AND YES, INDEED
YOU WILL BE...
She hops up, and hits the top of a wardrobe case-- it pops
open, revealing an array of garments.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
POPULAR!
YOU'RE GONNA BE POPULAR!
I'LL TEACH YOU THE PROPER PLOYS
WHEN YOU TALK TO BOYS
LITTLE WAYS TO FLIRT AND FLOUNCE
I'LL SHOW YOU W HAT SHOES TO WEAR
HOW TO FIX YOUR HAIR
EVERYTHING THAT REALLY COUNTS
TO BE POPULAR!
I'LL HELP YOU BE POPULAR!
YOU'LL HANG WITH THE RIGHT COHORTS
YOU'LL BE GOOD AT SPORTS
KNOW THE SLANG YOU'VE GOT TO KNOW
SO LET'S START
She pops another trunk: there's another explosion of apparel--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
`CAUSE YOU'VE GOT AN AWF'LLY LONG WAY TO
GO...
Galinda shines a bright light in Elphaba's face like a police
interrogati on, examines her complexion with a magnifying
glass--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
DON'T BE OFFENDED BY MY FRANK ANALYSIS
THINK OF IT AS PERSONALITY DIALYSIS
NOW THAT I'VE CHOSEN TO BECOME A PAL, A SIS-
TER AND ADVISER
THERE'S NOBODY WISER
NOT WHEN IT COMES TO POPULAR --
Galinda opens more trunks and bags, revealing more and more
clothes, shoes, accessories, and scary beauty devices, as--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
I KNOW ABOUT POPULAR
AND WITH AN ASSIST FROM ME
TO BE WHO YOU'LL BE
68
INSTEAD OF DREARY WHO-YOU-WERE...WELL,
ARE...
THERE'S NOTHING THAT CAN STOP YOU
FROM BECOMING POPU-
LER... LAR..
Galinda dances around the room, in sheer anticipation...
GALINDA (CONT'D)
LA LA LA LA
WE'RE GONNA MAKE
YOU POPULAR...
ELPHABA
This won't end well.
GALINDA
Elphie! You mustn't think that way--
your whole life is going to change!
And all because of me!
Galinda pulls Elphaba out on the balcony...
GALINDA (CONT'D)
WHEN I SEE DEPRESSING CREATURES
WITH UNPREPOSSESSING FEATURES
I REMIND THEM ON THEIR OWN BEHALF
TO THINK OF
CELEBRATED HEADS OF STATE OR
SPECIALLY GREAT COMMUNICATORS
DID THEY HAVE BRAINS OR KNOWLEDGE?
Galinda steers Elphaba back into their room, then Galinda
jumps onto her bed, danceing and waving her training wand...
GALINDA (CONT'D)
DON'T MAKE ME LAUGH!
THEY WERE--
POPULAR! PLEASE--
IT'S ALL ABOUT POPULAR!
IT'S NO T ABOUT APTITUDE
IT'S THE WAY YOU'RE VIEWED
SO IT'S VERY SHREWD TO BE
VERY VERY POPULAR
LIKE ME!
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Now then. Let us begin. Hair. We
toss our hair. See? Toss! Toss!
She demonstrates. Elphaba tries-- with minimal success.
69
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Well-- you'll practice! And now--
(picks up her magic wand)
I shall transform your simple
"frock" into a magnificent ball
gown!
ELPHABA
Oh no.
Galinda readies herself-- points her wand...
GALINDA
Ball gown.
They wait. Nothing happens. Galinda rolls her head, jabs with
the wand, like a fighter in her corner, then-- points again.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Ball gown!
More nothing. Galinda warms up again, even more vi gorously,
then-- points her wand yet again, with fierce determination.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Ball gown!
(she examines her wand)
Is this on?
ELPHABA
I can't wear things like that
anyway.
Galinda, struck by Elphaba's words, forgets about her wand.
GALINDA
Of course you can. We'll just
start... smaller.
Galinda moves to her pink flower, and carefully pins it into
Elphaba's hair.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
(a discovery)
Pink goes good wit h green.
ELPHABA
It goes well with green.
GALINDA
It so does.
Galinda regards Elphaba with wonder; makes another discovery.
70
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Why, Miss Elphaba-- you're
beautiful.
She guides her to the mirror. Elphaba looks-- at her own
reflection. And for a split second, she allows herself to
like what she sees. But then--
ELPHABA
I-- I have to go--
She rushes out. Galinda calls after her--
GALINDA
You're welcome!
(then)
AND THO' YOU PROTEST
YOUR DISINTEREST
I KNOW CLANDESTINEDLY
YOU'RE GONNA GRIN AND BEAR IT
YOUR NEW-FOUND POPULARI TY --
LA, LA, LA, LA...
YOU'LL BE POPULAR
The rising sun turns Galinda's silhouette pink as she
triumphantly climbs her tower of luggage--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
JUST NOT QUITE AS POPULAR AS ME!
57 57
EXT. SHIZ - QUAD NEAR DINING HALL - DAY
Galinda breezes off with her friends... When the coast is
clear, Elphaba peeks cautiously out from an archway, sees:
More students coming towards her. Self-conscious, Elphaba
ducks back into the archway, takes a breath, then: certain
she's alone, she tries some covert hair tossing...
FIYERO (O.S.)
You've been Galinda-fied.
She whirls around. There's Fiyero, studying her.
FIYERO (CONT'D)
You don't need to d o that, you
know.
Before she can summon a snappy response, or any response, he
saunters on. Off Elphaba, discombobulated by this...
71
58 58
MONTAGE: VARIOUS LOCATIONS
Elphaba enters the dining hall, self-conscious, to see:
Galinda, Nessa, Boq, and Fiyero all seated together, in
animated conversation. Without skipping a beat, they all make
room for her to sit.
Elphaba looks at Galinda, who smiles. See? Elphaba gives her
best hair-toss, and they all CRACK UP; (as before, Elphaba's
laugh is a distinctive CACKLE.)
WE HEAR a new "needle-drop" version of "DANCING THROUGH
LIFE." It's coming from--
AN OZIAN RADIO, The five friends sit around a crackling
CAMPFIRE. Nessa helps Boq toss kindling on the fire,
crackling in the fireplace. Galinda and Elphaba laugh until
they cry. Fiyero is immersed in one of Elphaba's books.
Elphaba takes notice. The SONG (and the MONTAGE) CONTINUES:
--IN THE QUAD: Boq leads the friends through throngs of
students--
--IN THE WOODS: Elphaba, Fiyero, and Nessa continue to follow
Boq-- Galinda, in high heels, can't keep up... Elphaba
circles back, pulls off Galinda's shoes; Galinda sprints off
after her friends, with a few backward glances at her
abandoned heels...
A SECLUDED CLEARING: Boq leads them to a huge, rotting tree.
The friends look around, then back to Boq, puzzled-- why have
you brought us here? I n answer, Boq pulls out... an axe.
--LATER. The dead tree is partly cleared. Fiyero takes off
his shirt. Wow. Boq takes off his shirt. Wow? REVEAL Nessa,
Elphaba and a somewhat distracted (by Fiyero) Galinda, as the
three girls chop and haul away the rest of the tree.
--LIBRARY: They're at one table, leaves still stuck to their
hair and clothes. Elphaba studies. Nessa shares her notes
with Boq. Galinda is studying an enormous tome-- but there's
a fashion magazine hidden inside. Fiyero's asleep.
--THAT SAME FOREST AREA: A badminton-type net, strung between
two trees. Nessa slams an amazing shot.
--PICTURESQUE HILLSIDE: As the sun rises, the tribe trudge up
a hill. Galinda now wears a pair of Elphaba's boots. Elphaba
stumbles and a hand reaches out to help her . It's Nessa
Elphaba takes it; the sister's eyes meet... and all five
burst into SONG:
72
ELPHABA/GALINDA/FIYERO/NESSA/BOQ
ALL OF OUR LIFE
WE'LL BE TOGETHER
FIVE FRIENDS FOREVER
ME, YOU, YOU AND YOU...AND YOU
SUCH A QUINTET
THERE HAS NEVER BEEN YET!
BRING ON LIFE
AND WATCH US DANCE ON THROUGH...
They see... A field of poppies. Excited, they link arms one
by one...
END MONTAGE.
59 59
INT. DILLAMOND'S CLASSROOM - DAY
The tribe enters. Various students are already standing
there, CHATTING before class... All at once, Dillamond rushes
in. Elphaba goes to him, holds out a bunch of poppies--
ELPHABA
Doctor Dillamond, I picked some
poppies for you--
But Dillamond ignores the poppies--
DILLAMOND
Not now, Miss Elphaba--
(to everyone)
Please, everyone, take your seats,
I've something to say, and very
little time.
Surprised by his urgency, the students quickly take seats;
the tribe sits in one row, together...
DILLAMOND (CONT'D)
My dear students, this is my last
day here at Shiz. You see, Animals--
are no longer permitted to teach.
Elphaba rockets to her feet.
ELPHABA
What?
DILLAMOND
It's alright, Miss Elphaba... I'll
be alright.
Suddenly a WHISTLE BLAST. Elphaba and the others startle--
73
TWO UNIFORMED GUARDS enter-- they're followed by the Shiz
University President, and an anxious Miss Coddle--
MISS CODDLE
Students, remain calm, please,
there's no cause for alarm--
ELPHABA
What is this, what's happening?
As the Guards approach him--
DILLAMOND
Don't worry! They can take away my
job, but I shall continue speaking
out!
FIRST GUARD
Come on, Goat.
Elphaba rushes up to the President, and Miss Coddle--
ELPHABA
You can't permit this!
MISS CODDLE
Miss Elphaba, I'm afraid it's out
of our hands.
ELPHABA
But--
As the Guards start to lead him away, Dillamond calls out--
DILLAMOND
Listen to me--!
(to Elphaba)
You're not being told the whole
story!
The Guard shoves him, Dillamond's spectacles fall to the
floor-- the Guard's boot is about to crush them--
Elphaba grabs the spectacles just in time, starts after him--
ELPHABA
Doctor Dillamond--!
But the President blocks her, and Dillamond is led away.
Elphaba turns in desperation to the other students--
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Are we all just going to sit here,
in silence?!
74
SHIZ PRESIDENT
That's quite enough, Miss Elphaba.
Take your seat.
Elphaba stands there, the poppies she picked for Dillamond
still clutched in her hand... Galinda goes to her, and gently
leads her to her seat, as--
MISS CODDLE
Students, your new history
professor has prepared a special
presentation!
PROFESSOR NIKIDIK, somber, human, enters. He carries a
rectangular, cloth-covered package, pushes Dilla mond's vase
of poppies roughly to one side, and places the package on
Dillamond's desk.
The package shakes slightly on its own. The students leans
forward, curious.
PROFESSOR NIKIDIK
Good afternoon, students.
MISS CODDLE
Good afternoon!
THE STUDENTS
Good afternoon.
PROFESSOR NIKIDIK
In times such as these, it behooves
us all, not merely to study the
past, but to look to the future...
Nikidik pulls t he cloth off with a flourish, revealing: a
small cage with a LION CUB inside.
PROFESSOR NIKIDIK (CONT'D)
This is called-- a "cage"
Elphaba's eyes widen in horror and shock. But the other
students coo, charmed: "AWWW."
The CUB TREMBLES; HISSES, baring sharp, tiny teeth.
NIKIDIK
This remarkable innovation is for
the good of all Oz, as well as for
the Animal's own good. You see--
75
ELPHABA
(loudly)
If it's so good, why is he
trembling?
Galinda catches Elphaba's eye: Shhh. As--
NIKIDIK
He's just excited to be here!
Elphaba turns to Nessa, who looks back, imploring her: don't
make a scene!
NIKIDIK (CONT'D)
One benefit of caging an animal
this young is: he will likely never
learn to speak!
The Students MURMUR, intrigued.
ELPHABA
Oh no...
NIKIDIK
Now, the dimensions of the cage
will vary, depe nding on the animal.
But here is the basic design...
As Nikidik draws on the chalkboard-- Elphaba surveys the
other Students in furious disbelief: They're listening
avidly, dutifully taking notes--
ELPHABA
(to her friends)
Can you imagine a world where
Animals are kept in cages, and
never speak?!
(turns to Fiyero)
What are we going to do?!
FIYERO
We?
ELPHABA
Well somebody's got to DO
SOMETHING!!
She throws down the poppies in her hand. The poppies rise,
begin to spin. It's beautiful, and strange. Those present
notice these rising, spinning poppies, look up at them, when
suddenly-- the poppies release a green-gold pollen...
FIYERO
What's happening?
76
ELPHABA
I don't know, I got mad, and--
The pollen is making it hard for Elphaba to see-- people are
panicking, then-- dropping into a sudden sleep.
FIYERO (O.S.)
Well, are you coming?
Elphaba turns and, through the poppy pollen, she sees:
Fiyero, at the door, the sleeping Cub in his arms. Elphaba
moves to him, glances back nervously to the collapsed bodies--
ELPHABA
Are they-- alright?
FIYERO
They're falli ng asleep! Poppy dust.
Come on!
She shakes herself to attention, and they rush out--
60 60
OMITTED
61 61
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF CAMPUS - DAY
Elphaba and Fiyero, with the Cub, run as fast as they can--
she spots, up ahead-- TWO BICYCLES, PROPPED AGAINST A TREE.
ELPHABA
Look!
Elphaba grabs one bike, Fiyero puts the Cub in its basket,
then hops on the other bike, pedals off, and she follows,
peddling at top speed, with the Cub in the bicycle basket.
62 62
OMITTED
63 63
INT. CLASSROOM - DAY
Morrible enters the classroom to find: everyone still fast
asleep. And the cage, empty.
MORRIBLE
What in the name of Oz...?
Nikidik wakes up, sees: the Cub is missing! He's baffled.
Just then, the Students start to stir. They're dazed, with no
idea what happened.
As Galinda opens her eyes, she looks around at her friends
and sees... Elphaba and Fiyero are gone.
77
CLOSE ON Morrible, her gears turning. She rushes out...
64 64
EXT. SHIZ WOODS - CLEARING - DUSK
They abandon the bikes. Fiyero wraps the sleeping Cub in his
jacket in front of two diverging paths. Fiyero points--
FIYERO
So-- this way? Or--
He points in the other direction--
FIYERO (CONT'D)
(adjusts Cub in his arms)
Of course, we could go this way--
ELPHABA
Don't shake him!
FIYERO
I'm not!
(studying the Cub)
I think he's waking up.
ELPHABA
Well, we can't let him loose just
anywhere, we've got to find
someplac e safe!
FIYERO
I realize that!
(then)
You think I'm really stupid, don't
you.
ELPHABA
No! Not really stupid.
Suddenly they hear VOICES in the distance. Fiyero points to
one path; lushly overgrown--
FIYERO
This way. Come on--
Fiyero pulls the Cub from his jacket. Elphaba leans close to
check the Cub, but it trembles and draws back, afraid--
ELPHABA
You don't need to be scared of me--
Fiyero gently puts t he frightened Cub down. As Elphaba
studies it, concerned... Fiyero studies her.
78
FIYERO
Why is it you're always causing
some sort of commotion?
ELPHABA
I don't cause commotions, I am one!
FIYERO
That's for sure.
ELPHABA
So I should just keep my mouth
shut?! Is that what you're saying?
FIYERO
No, I'm saying--
ELPHABA
You think I want to be this way?
You think I want to care this much?
FIYERO
I just meant--
ELPHABA
You think I don't know how much
easier my life would be if I
didn't?!
FIYERO
D o you ever let anyone else talk?
ELPHABA
Oh. Sorry.
(beat)
But can I just say one more thing?
FIYERO
Uh, I think you are--
ELPHABA
You could've walked away back
there.
FIYERO
So?
ELPHABA
So no matter how shallow and self-
absorbed you pretend to be--
79
FIYERO
Excuse me, there's no pretense
here: I happen to be genuinely self-
absorbed and deeply shallow.
ELPHABA
No, you're not. Or you wouldn't be
so unhappy.
She looks at him, and sees him. He's suddenly uncomfortable.
FIYERO
Fine. Look-- if you don't want my
help--
ELPHABA
No. I do--!
She grabs his arm. It's a charged moment. She quickly lets
go, turns back to the Cub, covering.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
His heart is poundi ng. I didn't
mean to frighten him.
FIYERO
What did you mean to do, back
there? And why was I the only one
you didn't do it to?
They're looking at each other.
ELPHABA
You're bleeding.
FIYERO
(still looking at her)
I am?
ELPHABA
(looking back at him,
mesmerized)
It must've scratched you.
Fiyero nods, staring at her.
FIYERO
Yeah... Or maybe it scratched me,
or something.
Elphaba reaches out to touch his face. Fiy ero abruptly moves.
80
FIYERO (CONT'D)
I better get to safety. I mean--
the Cub--
ELPHABA
Yes, of course--
FIYERO
Get the cub to safety...
He runs off with the Cub. She instinctively starts after him--
ELPHABA
Fiyero--!
SONG: "I'M NOT THAT GIRL"
She looks down at her hand. The hand that touched-- his face.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
HANDS TOUCH, EYES MEET
SUDDEN SILENCE, SUDDEN HEAT
HEARTS LEAP IN A GIDDY WHIRL
HE COULD BE THAT BOY
BUT I'M NOT THAT GIRL
Elphaba leans on a branch and it bends along with her,
dipping her, as if it's her dancing partner.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
DON'T DREAM TOO FAR
DON'T LOSE SIGHT OF WHO YOU ARE
DON'T REMEMBER THAT RUSH OF JOY
HE COULD BE THAT BOY
I'M NOT THAT GIRL
EV'RY SO OFTEN WE LONG TO STEAL
TO THE LAND OF WHAT-MIGHT-HAVE-BEEN
BUT THAT DOESN'T SOFTEN THE ACHE WE FEEL
WHEN REALITY SETS BACK IN
Determined to return to reality, Elphaba starts back--
64A 64A
EXT. OUTSKIRTS OF SHIZ CAMPUS
ELPHABA
BLITHE SMILE, LITHE LIMB
SHE WHO'S WINSOME, SHE WINS HIM
GOLD HAIR WITH A GENTLE CURL
THAT'S THE GIRL HE CHOSE
AND HEAVEN KNOWS
I'M NOT THAT GIRL...
81
65 65
EXT. SHIZ QUAD - NIGHT
Elphaba enters the quad, and suddenly-- there's Fiyero,
coming towards her.
ON ELPHABA: Her heart leaps-- But then she sees: Galinda.
hurrying towards him.
Elphaba ducks behind an archway, watching: as they embrace.
Forcing herself to look. To accept.
ELPHABA
DON'T WISH, DON'T START
WISHING ONLY WOUNDS THE HEART
I WASN'T BORN FOR THE ROSE AND PEARL
THERE'S A GIRL I KNOW
HE LOVES HER SO
Elphaba watches covertly as, across the quad, Fiyero and
Galinda meet up with Boq and Nessa. The two couples go off
together. And she lets go of the dream-- of being like them.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
I'M NOT THAT GIRL...
Elphaba turns and heads in the opposite direction... alone.
FADE TO BLACK:
66 66
OMITTED
82
We hear over black:
MORRIBLE (O.S.)
MISS ELPHABA-- COME AT ONCE!
67 67
EXT. SHIZ - ENTRANCE COURTYARD / BALCONY - DAY
Elphaba and Galinda burst through the doors of Madame
Morrible's quarters onto the balcony.
THEIR POV: Below, on the lawn, AN EXCITED CROWD has gathered.
And in the middle of it stands a beaming Morrible-- who spots
Elphaba on the balcony, motions to her...
The girls rush down to Morrible, who points...
MORRIBLE
Miss Elphaba-- Look!
Elphaba and Galinda look up to see...
IN THE SKY: A MINIATURE HOT AIR BALLOON
...with the words "Omaha State Fair" painted on the side,
attached to a tiny basket. As it gets closer, they hear the
TINKLING of a MUSIC BOX.
Elphaba looks from the little balloon, back to Morrible.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
I finally heard back from the
Wizard. And look--!
83
The MUSIC BOX TUNE SLOWS DOWN, as the little balloon lands...
at Elphaba's feet. Galinda and Elphaba exchange a look of
total wonder. The Student onlookers are riveted.
Elphaba kneels down to examine it, and sees: Nestled in the
balloon's basket-- a bright green envelope. It reads: "For
Miss Elphaba Thropp" in exquisite calligraphy.
As the Students jostle each other and lean in, Galinda is
pushed aside. She stands at the back of the crowd. For the
first time, she's not the center of attention.
Elphaba opens the note and reads aloud:
ELPHABA
"His Royal Ozness, the Wonderful
Wizard of Oz, summons you most
ceremony-ishly to his personal
Palace in the Emerald City."
El phaba squints, to read the fine print:
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
"This invitation is non-
transferable."
(looking up, in wonder)
Oh Madame!
This news RIPPLES through the Students, including Pfannee and
ShenShen. Morrible picks up the hot air balloon. There's a
crank attached to the music box. Morrible winds it back up,
and sends it back into the air, as...
Pfannee, ShenShen, and Other Students surround Elphaba,
congra tulating her. Elphaba is giddy; it's like her fantasy!
Morrible pulls her aside, speaks quietly, confidentially...
MORRIBLE
This is your chance. To make good.
Of course, you'll have to prove
yourself first.
ELPHABA
(brought up short)
Prove myself?
MORRIBLE
Prove yourself worthy. Dearie, this
is the Wizard of Oz! If he's going
to grant your heart's desire--
ELPHABA
But-- prove myself how?! It's too
soon, I'm not ready--!
84
MORRIBLE
Don't be so pessi-mystical. You'll
find a way. I have faith in you.
As Elphaba takes this in. It starts to rain.
Galinda makes her way through the crowd of Students over to
Elphaba-- just as Morrible, protective, hastily opens an
umbrella, holds it over Elphaba.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Mustn't let you get wet! Not when
you're on the cusp of greatness!
Morrible makes a few bold, sorceress-y gestures, and the rain
stops instantly. Elphaba, Galinda, and the students are
stunned, then impressed.
GALINDA
(to Pfannee and ShenShen)
What did Madame Morrible just say?
PFANNEE/SHENSHEN
That Elphaba mustn't get wet!
Galinda looks at Elphaba-- their eyes meet. Galinda goes to
embrace her roommate, but Morrible pulls Elphaba aside again,
whispers to her--
MORRIBLE
My powers are purely
meteorological. I can stop and
start rain, make a bit of wind. But
you, Dearie, I believe--
Morrible regards Elphaba with motherly pride, then gently
tilts Elphaba's chin up, till she meets her gaze.
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Your powers could be...
ELPHABA
(hardly dares say it)
Unlimited?
MORRIBLE
NOW YOU'RE OFF TO MEET THE WIZARD
MAKE ME PROUD...
ELPHABA
I will--
(sings)
I'LL TRY.
85
MORRIBLE
AND THERE YOU'LL FIN'LLY BE:
THE WIZARD--
ELPHABA
AND I...
68 68
EXT. TRAIN STATION - PLATFORM - DAY
Charmingly old fashioned, bustling with HUMANS and ANIMALS...
A gleaming green TRAIN sits beside the platform.
FIND: Elphaba, in stylish black travel garb, being fussed
over by Galinda.
GALINDA
Now, you're sure you have
everything?
(no response)
Elphie!
ELPHABA
(staring past Galinda)
I can't believe it.
Galinda follows her gaze, to see:
Nessa, with their father, Governor Thropp, coming towards
them. Elphaba stares, stunned, as
Nessa and Governor Thropp approach--
NESSA
Look who's come to see you off!
ELPHABA
Father! I-- I never dreamed--
Now Elphaba sees Dulcibear, her former Nanny--
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
And Dulcibear! How are you?
Dulcibear starts to reply, then-- gives Elphaba a Bear hug
instead, just as Madame Morrible joins them, breathless--
MORRIBLE
Governor Thropp-- you received my
message! So good of you to come!
GOVERNOR THROPP
Of course! I treasure any chance to
see my dear daughter.
86
Governor Thropp kisses Nessa on the cheek. Morrible,
Dulcibear, and Galinda all clock the effect this has on
Elphaba. Morrible turns to Governor Thropp.
MORRIBLE
And such an honor, that your other
daughter be welcomed by the Wizard.
GOVERNOR THROPP
Yes. Let's just hope she makes a
good impression.
This lands hard on an already nervous Elphaba--
GALINDA
I'm sure she will.
Just then--
PFANNEE/SHENSHEN (O. S.)
Elphaba--!
Suddenly Elphaba is engulfed by a group of Students,
showering her with hugs and good wishes.
Boq appears from out of this crowd. Nessa brightens--
NESSA
There you are! Father, this is Boq,
the boy I wrote to you about!
BOQ
(distracted)
What? Oh, yes, Governor Thropp...
good to meet you.
Governor Thropp shakes Boq's hand.
GOVERNOR THROPP
I've heard so much about you. My
Nessarose is very pre cious to me...
You'd better take good care of her.
Boq's collar suddenly feels tighter. He gulps, backs away--
BOQ
I understand. Well. I should-- uh--
(abruptly, to Galinda)
May I speak with you? Privishly?
Before she can answer, Boq pulls her aside. Elphaba and
Nessa, startled, watch as Boq moves off, with Galinda.
Boq continues quietly, with deep emotion, to Galinda...
87
BOQ (CONT'D)
That day. When you asked me to ask
Nessa out... you said I'd be your
hero. You gave me hope!
GALINDA
But-- I give everyone hope.
Overcome, Boq bolts.
NESSA
Boq!
Nessa moves to Galinda, upset--
NESSA (CONT'D)
What did you say to him?
Galinda is tongue tied. Elphaba sees her sister's distress--
ELPHABA
I'll find him--
Elphaba rushes after Boq. Galinda, twinged with guilt, kneels
to face Nessa, and somehow repai r this.
GALINDA
Nessa...
Nessa, upset, turns away from her. Galinda spots: Avaric, in
the crowd of Students. She watches as Avaric glances over at
Nessa, takes a step in her direction.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
There are other boys. Who you may
not have noticed. Who've noticed
you.
NESSA
(a beat)
But-- they're not Boq.
69 69
EXT. TRAIN STATION - TICKETING STRUCTURE - MOMENTS LATER
Elphaba sees Boq inside this structure. She enters--
70 70
INT. TRAIN STATION - TICKETING STRUCTURE - SAME
ELPHABA
Boq...?
He turns to her, in tears-- it makes her want to cry.
88
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Oh, Boq.
BOQ
I still have hope.
ELPHABA
You shouldn't.
BOQ
You don't know that! Your dreams
are coming true, why not mine?!
TICKET BUYERS are staring at them... Elphaba pulls him aside.
ELPHABA
(can't help herself)
Why can't you just love my sister?
BOQ
Because I can't!
(a beat)
You think I like seeing Nessa hurt?
I hate hurting anyone, but I can't
just change my feelings. Could you
change yours, f or Fiyero?
ELPHABA
What?! I-- I have no feelings for
Fiyero!
He looks at her: suddenly alarmingly calm.
BOQ
Oh, I'm sorry, I misunderstood. I
thought we were being honest.
And before she can respond, he exits.
71 71
EXT. TRAIN STATION - PLATFORM
GALINDA
Elphie!
ELPHABA
Where's Nessa?
GALINDA
She left with your father. She said
to wish you safe travels.
(off Elphaba's concern)
She'll be fine, Elphie. She'll have
to manage without you. We all will.
89
ELPHABA
Oh, you'll barely notice I'm gone.
You have Fiyero!
(trying to sound casual)
Where is he, anyway? Not that I
expected him to say goodbye to me.
I mean, we barely know each other.
GALINDA
I barely know him either, anymore!
He's-- different. Distant, and
moodified... and he's been
thinking, which really worries me.
Elphaba's trying to absorb this, as Galinda continues...
GALINDA (CONT'D)
It all started th at day Doctor
Dillamond was fired. I never knew
Fiyero cared so much about that old
Goat.
As Elphaba struggles to shove down the emotions this stirs in
her... Galinda suddenly waves excitedly--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
Oh, there he is! He did come!
Fiyero! Over here, dearest!
Fiyero approaches, a poppy in his lapel. The students who
arrived with Galinda, now enjoying the MUSIC, wave to him.
FIYERO
Elphaba. I'm happy for you.
GALINDA
(takes his arm)
Yes, we are both so happy for you!
FIYERO
(awkward pause, then)
I've been thinking.
ELPHABA
Yes, I-- heard.
FIYERO
About Dillamond. And that Lion Cub.
I think about that day a lot.
ELPHABA
So do I.
Galinda looks from one, to the other, then--
90
GALINDA
Oh, me too! I think about it
constantly. Poor Doctor Dillamond--
it makes one want to take a stand.
In fact-- attention, everyone!
She signals, and the CHATTERING STUDENTS obediently go
SILENT. Galinda has zero idea what she's going to say, her
desperation, added to her charm, equals: riveting.
GALINDA (CONT'D)
(to the assembled throng)
I am-- changing my name.
FIYERO
Your name?
GALINDA
Since Doctor Di llamond had his own,
Goat-like way of pronouncifying my
name-- in solidarity, and to
express my... uh... outrage...
Both Fiyero and Elphaba watch her in amazement as Galinda
continues loudly, in a desperate bid for Fiyero's attention--
GALINDA (CONT'D)
(a noble sacrifice)
I will henceforward be known-- no
longer as "Ga-linda"... but as
simply: "Glinda."
Elphaba's jaw drops in shock. Then-- APPLAUSE from the
St udents, as well as random TRAVELERS, who overheard.
SHENSHEN
She's so good.
PFANNEE
She so is.
In the very back of the station-- FIND Morrible: watching
from afar, and registering the power Galinda has, to charm
and affect a crowd. Then, as she turns and moves off--
Galinda, now GLINDA, turns to Fiyero, hopeful... but he's
backing away--
FIYERO
Very-- admirable, uh-- "Glinda."
GLINDA
Fiyero--!
91
Fiyero awkwardly thrusts the poppy at a disconcerted Elphaba.
FIYERO
Elphaba. Good luck.
Elphaba takes the flower from him. Neither knows what to say.
Then-- Fiyero rushes off, as the other students call out
(with admiration) to Elphaba:
VARIOUS STUDENTS
Good fortune, Elphaba!/Our best to
the Wizard!/Don't forget us!
They follow Fiyero. Glinda, devastated, turns to Elphaba.
GLINDA
There! You see?
Elphaba is flooded with both compassion and secret guilt--
ELPHABA
Don't cry, Galinda...
GLINDA
It's Glinda now! Stupid idea, I
don't even know what made me do it!
ELPHABA
It doesn't matter what your name
is, everyone loves you!
GLINDA
I don't care! I want him! I don't
even think he's perfect anymore,
and I still want him!
(a revelation)
This must be what other people feel
like. How do they bear it?
As WE HEAR--
CONDUCTOR (OS.)
All aboard for the Emerald City
Unlimited!
Glinda hastily wipes her tears--
GLINDA
Come on, you'll miss your train!
As Elphaba steps onboard--
GLINDA (CONT'D)
Oh! I almost forgot!
92
Glinda hands her a small guidebook. Elphaba reads the cover:
ELPHABA
"If You Have Just One Day in The
Emerald City."
She looks back at Glinda, visibly touched.
GLINDA
Now don't you cry! You're going to
have the wonderfullest time.
The locomotive begins to slowly chug forward. Glinda walks
beside it, tears in her eyes, watching Elphaba. A beat, then--
ELPHABA
Come with me.
Glinda is now almost running be side the train.
GLINDA
What?!
ELPHABA
To see the Emerald City, and meet
the Wizard!
GLINDA
But--
ELPHABA
(reaching out her hand)
Come on!
Glinda runs faster-- grabs Elphaba's hand, then terrified;
exhilarated, she leaps, and Elphaba pulls her onto the train.
72 72
INT. TRAIN - PASSENGER CAR - SAME
The girls topple over, breathless; LAUGHING... As they get to
their feet, brush each other off... Glinda pulls her friend
into a grateful hug--
SONG: "ONE SHORT DAY"
73 73
INT. TRAIN - PASSENGER CAR - LATER
The girls sit next to each other, Glinda's perfect veneer now
askew from her mad dash. Both girls look out the window.
The train WHISTLE BLASTS and when Elphaba looks up--
Glinda suddenly turns green.
93
Elphaba stares at her in shock, then realizes: that it's the
reflection of the Emerald City, shining through the windows!
They've arrived!
TRAVELERS
ONE SHORT DAY
IN THE EMERALD CITY...
The girls gaze out the window, marveling at the city, off in
the distance, carved out of giant mounds of emerald.
TRAVELERS (CONT'D)
ONE SHORT DAY
IN THE EMERALD CITY...
EMERALD CITY...
As the train pulls into the city, Elphaba and Glinda catch
their breaths, and press their faces against the window, in
happy anticipat ion-- they're so close to the Wizard now!
74 74
EXT. EMERALD CITY - DOWNTOWN - DAY
OTHER TOURISTS
ONE SHORT DAY
IN THE EMERALD CITY
ONE SHORT DAY
FULL OF SO MUCH TO DO
EV'RY WAY
THAT YOU LOOK IN THIS CITY
THERE'S SOMETHING EXQUISITE
YOU'LL WANT TO VISIT
BEFORE THE DAY'S THROUGH!
Elphaba and Glinda step off the train and take in the
sparkling, glorious Downtown.
An array of well-dressed OZIANS bustle about merrily. And all
around, images of hot air balloons ...
75 75
SERIES OF QUICK CUTS: QUOXWOOD TREES, A DRESS SALON, A
LIBRARY, A STREET VENDOR, A MUSEUM
ELPHABA
THERE ARE BUILDINGS TALL AS QUOXWOOD TREES
GLINDA
DRESS SALONS
ELPHABA
AND LIBRARIES
GLINDA
PALACES!
94
ELPHABA
MUSEUMS!
BOTH
A HUNDRED STRONG...
THERE ARE WONDERS LIKE I'VE NEVER SEEN
GLINDA
IT'S ALL GRAND
ELPHABA
AND IT'S ALL GREEN
BOTH
I THINK WE'VE FOUND THE PLACE WHERE WE
BELONG!
They arrive at the heart of the city. It pulses with life.
The shops glitter, the people sparkle. CRAZY RICH OZIANS
stroll by. And everywhere the girls look, they're seeing:
SUCCESSFUL WOMEN-- ARTISTS, ENTREPRENEURS, MOTHERS. Her e,
you can be respected for who you are, or who you want to be.
Elphaba and Glinda take it all in, utterly mesmerized.
(CONT'D)
BOTH
I WANNA BE
IN THIS HOI POLLOI
ELPHABA
SO I'LL BE BACK FOR GOOD SOMEDAY
GLINDA
TO MAKE MY LIFE AND MAKE MY WAY
BOTH
BUT FOR TODAY WE'LL WANDER AND ENJOY...
They pass: A BEAUTY SALON. The sign in the window reads: "OFF
TO SEE THE WIZARD? SEE US FIRST!" Glinda looks at Elphaba,
who s tarts to back away, but then...
76 76
INT. EMERALD CITY SALON / DRESS SHOP - DAY
Using outlandish (and humorous) Ozian beauty treatments,
HUMAN and ANIMAL BEAUTICIANS perform a makeover on our girls.
HUMAN BEAUTICIANS
ONE SHORT DAY
IN THE EMERALD CITY
ONE SHORT DAY
95
TO HAVE A LIFETIME OF FUN
ONE SHORT DAY...
77 77
EXT. EMERALD CITY - LATER
The girls, now made-over, hit the street again-- (Elphaba's
had her nails done, and Glinda's had everything done.)
ELPHABA/GLINDA
AND WE'RE WARNING THE CITY:
NOW THAT WE'RE IN HERE
YOU'LL KNOW WE'VE BEEN HERE
BEFORE WE ARE DONE!
Elphaba studies the sights, fascinated; Glinda studies... the
contents of Elphaba's envelope from the Wizard, and finds:
GLINDA
Free passes to Wiz-o-mania!
78 78
OMITTED
79 79
INT. EMERALD CITY - WIZ-O-MANIA
It's like a theme park "ride," Ozian style. Elphaba and
Glinda are seated in a little car, (we glimpse a car or two
behind them, containing TOURISTS.) The car travels our Girls
up to the entrance of the ride. They read the sign on the
doors aloud, together--
ELPHABA/GLINDA
"Wizomania! How our Wonderful
Wizard Saved Oz: a Histor-istical
Journey."
The doors swing open and they ride into a mysterious setting,
with stage-effect fog. A SINGER and CHORUS begin the show.
NARRATOR
LONG LONG AGO
LONG BEFORE WE CAN RECALL
THERE LIVED HERE IN OZ
THE MAGICAL WISE ONES
CHORUS
AHH AHH AHH
THE MAGICAL WISE ONES
Two mysterious figures emerge out of the fog...
NARRATOR
THE WISEST OF THEM ALL!
96
Now we make out that the figures are TWO WISE WOMEN...
WISE WOMAN ONE
WE WILL NOT LIVE FOREVER
THAT I CAN FORESEE
WISE WOMAN TWO
SO LET US SET DOWN ALL OUR MAGIC...
WISE WOMAN ONE
IN A STRANGE AND SECRET LANGUAGE...
BOTH WISE WOMEN
IN A BOOK:
ALL
THE GRIMMERIE!
The Wise Women somehow make an oversized replica of the
Grimmerie appear...
BOTH WISE WOMEN
AND WITH THIS MAGIC BOOK WE'LL BLESS
ALL OZ WITH MERRY- NESS!
The ride moves them into a new area, bright and colorful--
The Merry Land of Oz. Smiling DANCERS, some dressed as
ANIMALS, cavort.
ELPHABA
(whispers to Glinda)
Why aren't they using real Animals?
Before Glinda can answer, the music and atmosphere turns
somber--
NARRATOR
BUT TIME TICKED EVER ONWARD, DAY BY DAY
AND ALL THOSE WHO COULD READ IT PASSED AWAY
The Wise Women, now perhaps costumed to look "o ld", abruptly
"pass away" by collapsing into a prone position.
ALL
TILL ONE DAY NO ONE COULD...
The Wise Women pop their heads up for one last comment--
BOTH WISE WOMEN
AND WITHOUT OUR ANCIENT WISDOM
THERE TOOK ROOT THE SEEDS OF WOE...
CHORUS
WOE... WOE... WOE... WOE...
97
NARRATOR
AND DISCONTENT AND DISCORD...
CHORUS
DISCORD!
ALL
BEGAN TO GROW!
NARRATOR
But! There was a prophecy...
They ride into the next area-- a large field. THE TWO WISE
WOMEN now float as spirits (suspended from visible wires) in
the "clouds" above...
WISE WOMAN ONE
IN OZ'S DARKEST HOUR
THOUGH WE CANNOT SAY WHEN...
WISE WOMAN TWO
THERE WILL COME ONE WITH THE POWER
TO READ THE GRIMMERIE AGAIN!
CHORUS
AHH AHH AHH AHH AHH
AND OZ ONCE MORE WILL BE SO MERRY THEN!
BOTH WISE WOMEN
(pointing up)
Look!
An animatronic "Wizard" is lowered, a bit jerkily, in a two-
dimensional cardboard balloon.
CHORUS
THIS MAN WHO COMES OUT OF THE BLUE
IS HE THE PROPHECY?
THERE'S ONE WAY WE'LL KNOW IF IT'S TRUE...
NARRATOR
FETCH THE GRIMMERIE!
The Grimmerie is brought to the "Wizard."
WIZARD
("reading" the book)
O ... ma ... hah! O... ma ... ha h!
AN ACTOR (SS?)
He can read it!
ANOTHER ACTOR (WH?)
He must be a Wizard!
98
WISE WOMAN ONE
THE PROPHECY FULFILLED!
WISE WOMAN TWO
WHAT MERRYNESS HE'LL BRING!
ALL (V.O.)
NOW EV'RY OZIAN RAISE A VOICE
AND SING! AND SING! AND SING:
The ride has arrived in an expansive, colorful area-- and the
ENTIRE COMPANY surrounds them, breaking into a joyous dance
number, and backing the Two Wise Woman (now back from the
dead) as confetti falls from the "sky" above--
WISE WOMAN TWO
WHO'S THE MA GE
WHOSE MAJOR ITINERARY
IS MAKING ALL OZ MERRIER?
WISE WOMAN ONE
WHO'S THE SAGE
WHO SAGELY SAILED IN TO SAVE
OUR POSTERIERS?
ENTIRE COMPANY
WHOSE ENTHUSE FOR HOT AIR BALLOONING
HAS ALL OF OZ HONEYMOONING?
WOO--OO--OO
ISN'T HE WONDERFUL?
(OUR WONDERFUL WIZARD!)
BOTH WISE WOMEN AND OTHERS ELPHABA, GLINDA & TOURISTS
WHO'S THE MAGE (in counterpoint)
WHOSE MAJOR ITINERARY ONE SHORT DAY
IS MAKING ALL OZ MERRIER? IN THE EMERALD CITY
WHO'S THE SAGE ONE SHORT DAY
WHO SAGELY SAILED IN TO SAVE TO HAVE A LIFETIME OF FUN
OUR POSTERIORS
80-81 80-81
OMITTED
82 82
EXT. EMERALD CITY - LATER
Elphaba and Glinda glide along the streets, headed for the
Wizard's Palace, up ahead, as they sing with the Crowd--
ELPHABA, GLINDA & CROWD
WHAT A WAY
TO BE SEEING THE CITY...
There's a huge GROUP OF HOPEFULS, all trying to see the
Wizard, held back by a green gate, and a GATEKEEPER.
99
Elphaba steps forward, holds up her personal invitation--
The Crowd and the gate parts, revealing:
THE PALACE STEPS, leading up to the entrance. TWO GUARDS are
stationed on balconies on either side of the entrance door.
As Elphaba and Glinda ascend these stairs...
ELPHABA/GLINDA
WHERE SO MANY ROAM TO
WE'LL CALL IT HOME TOO
AND THEN, JUST LIKE NOW WE CAN SAY:
WE'RE JUST TWO FRIENDS...
ELPHABA
TWO GOO D FRIENDS...
GLINDA
TWO BEST FRIENDS...
ELPHABA/GLINDA/CROWD
SHARING ONE WONDERFUL
ONE SHORT--!
GUARD
The Wizard will see you now!
The Palace doors open!
ELPHABA/GLINDA/CROWD
DAY!
83-84 83-84
OMITTED
85 85
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - HALL OF GRANDIOSITY - NIGHT
It's (almost comically) ornate. Identically uniformed MONKEY
GUARDS stand at attention against either wall.
More doors open, revealing CHISTERY, a more impressively
uniformed Monkey, with a commanding, dynamic energy. Chistery
nods solemnly to Elphaba, and motions her to follow him, but
then-- stops, noticing Glinda. Elphaba takes Glinda's hand.
ELPHABA
She's with me.
Chistery hesitates, then no ds again, giving his permission.
Glinda shoots Elphaba a look of intense gratitude, and the
girls look at each other in excited anticipation, then follow
Chistery, drinking in the opulence as they move into...
100
Suddenly Elphaba stops walking, frozen with fear. Glinda
takes Elphaba's shoulders, looks into her eyes.
GLINDA
Listen to me, Elphaba Thropp. You
can do this. You can do anything!
She holds out her hand, Elphaba takes it, gratefully, and
they go forward together, turn the corner-- then stop short.
86 86
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - THRONE ROOM - CONTINUOUS
AN ENORMOUS HEAD, ON A THRONE, looms over them. The girls
summon their courage, move closer, into this DARK SPACE--
Suddenly, the HEAD LIGHTS UP-- and SPEAKS!
OZ HEAD
I. AM. OZ!
The girls, terrified, clutch each other--
GLINDA
Oh, Elphie!
OZ HEAD
I. AM. OZ! The Great and Terrible.
Who are you and why do you seek me?
ELPHABA
Uhhh--
GLINDA
(petrified, to Elphaba)
Say something, say something--
OZ HEAD
SAY SOM ETHING!
Elphaba bravely steps forward.
ELPHABA
I am Elphaba. Thropp. Your Oz-ness.
And this is--
Suddenly the Head "TURNS OFF," and from behind the curtain
that surrounds it we hear:
WIZARD (OS.)
Oh, is that you, Elphaba?
A MAN peeks out from behind the curtain. This is the WIZARD!
Extraordinarily ordinary, with an inner motor-- like he's
been elected, but is still trying to get your vote.
101
Now he greets Elphaba with genuine warmth, pumps her hand--
WIZARD (CONT'D)
Hope I didn't startle you-- it's so
hard to make out people's faces
when I'm back there!
Elphaba stares, star struck.
WIZARD (CONT'D)
(disarmingly sincere)
It's so good to meet you, Elphaba.
Everyone turns to Elphaba. She's utterly overwhelmed, just
trying to breathe. The Wizard studies her, then--
WIZARD (CONT'D)
Well, what have we here?
The Wizard tak es a coin out of Elphaba's ear, magician style.
It breaks the ice. Elphaba laughs, Galinda claps. The Wizard
winks at Elphaba, presents the coin to her with a flourish.
WIZARD (CONT'D)
For you. My special guest.
ELPHABA
(finally manages to speak)
Thank you, your Ozness.
WIZARD
(to Glinda)
And this is--?
He turns to Glinda, who performs an impressive curtsey.
GLINDA
Glinda. The "GA" is silent.
He sees them glancing nervously at the intimidating Oz Head.
WIZARD
I know, it's a bit much. But folks
expect this sort of thing--
(half sings, dances this)
--and ya gotta give the people what
they want!
(re: the Oz Head)
And if you think that's big--
He claps his hands together, excited, turns to Elphaba...
102
WIZARD (CONT'D)
Wait'll you see this! Walk with
me...
He takes her arm, and as they walk-- LIGHTS COME UP; we see:
Chistery, along with the other (Monkey) Emerald Guards,
standing at attention... and now it's clear--
That what appeared to be a small dark room is actually
enormous, and filled with various, eccentric inventions.
Elphaba stares, fascinated, at everything-- then notices: A
life-sized portrait of the Wizard, 20 years younger.
The Wizard steers her toward an incredibly detailed,
miniature model of the Land of Oz with a red brick road
running through it.
WIZARD (CONT'D)
The Oz of Tomorrow!
As the girls, agog, move closer, charmed by the details--
WIZARD (CONT'D)
Girls-- this road will change the
future of Oz. Folks need direction.
Once it's built, they'll always
know, if they just follow the road,
it'll lead `em right to me!
GLINDA ELPHABA
Look, there's Shiz! And Munchkinland!
WIZARD
And get a load of this!
The Wizard presses a button on an odd remote control dev ice
and suddenly the model's red brick road changes to blue!
WIZARD (CONT'D)
Can't decide what color the bricks
should be.
(to Elphaba)
Here, you try it--
Elphaba presses the button, and the blue bricks turn purple!
Elphaba, excited, presses the button again, then again, and
the bricks turn orange, then yellow, then red...
GLINDA
Wait, go back one...
The Wizard presses the button, now the bricks are yellow .
103
WIZARD
Really? The yellow?
GLINDA
It just says "road" to me.
(looking closer)
There's the palace! And-- oh,
Elphie, look!
Glinda points-- and we, along with Elphaba, see: A perfect
replica of the Palace. The girls peer through a tiny window.
THEIR POV: In the miniature throne room, a tiny replica of
the Wizard himself!
WIZARD
Oh! Almost forgot--
The Wizard reaches into his pocket, and, to Elphaba's utter
amazement, holds out a tiny replica of... herself.
Elphaba looks at it, then at him-- speechless.
WIZARD (CONT'D)
I had it made special--
The Wizard hands Elphaba the replica/figurine.
WIZARD (CONT'D)
You keep that. And someday, we'll
put it inside there, next to mine.
And you'll call this place... your
home.
It's like Elphaba has waited her entire life to hear those
words. She stares down at the tiny Elphaba in her palm...
ELPHABA
(very softly, to herself)
It's gr een.
Then, acutely embarrassed to have spoken those words aloud,
she hastily turns away from them all, shoving the little
figurine into her pocket. Then-- feels something in there.
Elphaba quietly inches Doctor Dillamond's spectacles out of
her pocket. She stares down at them, as-- WE HEAR...
WIZARD
Well- it doesn't have to be.
She just stares down at the Goat's spectacles. The Wizard
speaks softly, just to her...
104
WIZARD (CONT'D)
Is that-- your heart's desire?
Elphaba places the spectacles back in her pocket, and turns,
coming face to face with him--
ELPHABA
(with great conviction)
No. My heart's desire is for you to
help the Animals.
GLINDA
But-- Elphie--
(takes her aside)
Are you sure you don't want to ask
for something more personal, like--
But Elphaba cuts her off, continues to the Wizard--
ELPHABA
Something bad is happen ing to them.
They need you.
WIZARD
(after a beat)
I thought you might say that. It's
the darndest thing, it's almost
like-- I already know you.
ELPHABA
(flooded with relief)
Oh, your Ozness-- I knew you'd
understand! That makes me so happy.
WIZARD
Well, that's what I love best.
Making people happy.
SONG: "A SENTIMENTAL MAN"
WIZARD (CONT'D)
(sings, guileless; humble)
I AM A SENTIMENTAL MAN
WHO ALWAYS LONGED TO BE A FATHER THAT'S WHY
I DO THE BEST I CAN
TO TREAT EACH CITIZEN OF OZ AS SON--
(beams at Elphaba)
OR DAUGHTER--!
SO ELPHABA, I'D LIKE TO RAISE YOU HIGH 'CUZ
I THINK EV'RYONE DESERVES THE CHANCE TO FLY
Elphaba is now at ease, drinking in his every word...
105
WIZARD (CONT'D)
AND HELPING YOU WITH YOUR ASCENT ALLOWS ME
TO FEEL SO PARENTAL
FOR I AM-- A SENTIMENTAL MAN...
As the Wizard has been singing, he's led them back to the Oz
Head. And we notice, beneath the enormous head: drapes--
At the Wizard's signal, Chistery opens the drapes,
revealing... A plain wooden bookstand. On it: an impossibly
old, worn book. And we hear the GRIMMERIE THEME...
Suddenly, from behind the drapes, steps...
ELPHABA
Madame Morrible!
MORRIBLE
Oh Dearie, I couldn't miss your big
moment.
(noticing Glinda, dryly)
Neither could you, I see.
GLINDA
I don't believe it. Is that...?
ELPHABA/GLINDA
The Grimmerie...?
Both Elphaba and Glinda move toward it, as if magnetized...
MORRIBLE
Yes. Our Ancient Book of Wisdom,
Thaumaturgy and Enchantmen ts.
GLINDA
(whispers)
Can I touch it?
MORRIBLE
(whispers)
No.
The Wizard starts to lead Elphaba towards it then-- stops--
WIZARD
Wait.
(to Morrible)
She may not be ready. Casting a
spell from the Grimmerie-- that's a
tall order! I should know!
Elphaba freezes... cast a spell? Where would she even start?
106
MORRIBLE
You're right. We mustn't rush her.
Perhaps today has been too
overwhelming...
Elphaba, her future at stake, wills herself to say...
ELPHABA
No. Let me prove myself... Please.
At least, let me try!
She waits, tries to breathe. The Wizard seems to be weighing
this. Then he looks over to Morrible; still uncertain. But--
Morrible nods.
Elphaba moves closer and closer to the book... and then...
It opens itself to her.
Elphaba's stunned. This mystical, timeworn entity seems to
recognize her; wants to be read-- by her.
She looks back at Glinda, whose eyes are wide. The Wizard and
Morrible are equally stunned. The Wizard turns to Elphaba--
WIZARD
So. Which spell will you start
with?
MORRIBLE
Well, we've been working on
levitation--
WIZARD
Have you? You know, Chistery, here--
(he motions to Chistery)
You've met Chistery , leader of my
Emerald Guards?
Elphaba meets Chistery's penetrating gaze, is about to speak
to him. But the Wizard pulls Elphaba aside, speaks low--
WIZARD (CONT'D)
He'd never admit it; hates to talk
about himself-- but he watches the
birds so longingly every morning--
ELPHABA
Oh. But-- how could I-- ever--
GLINDA (O.S.)
Elphie--? Look!
107
They turn, Glinda is pointing in amazement at The Grimmerie.
Its pages are turning by themselves, a whirl of
indecipherable symbols. Until... they stop at:
A PAGE WITH A DRAWING OF WINGS. Elphaba moves to it, gently
touches the wings, then the mysterious symbols, entranced...
ELPHABA
Are these-- words?
MORRIBLE
A lost language... our lost
language of spells.
As Elphaba moves closer to the Grimmerie--
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Don't be discouraged if you can't
decipherate it, Dearie, I myself
can only read a word or two, and
that took years and years of--
Elphaba, transfixed, BEGINS TO CHANT, haltingly at first--
ELPHABA
Ah-- tay...? Tah... tay?
MORRIBLE
(can barely speak)
Praise Oz!
GLINDA
(in awe)
Oh, Elphie...
The Wizard and Morrible take each others hands, thrilled.
Glinda stares; proud of her friend (but also-- envious).
And now Elphaba CHANTS, fluently, feverishly-- as the symbols
in the Grimmerie begin to glo w.
WIZARD
(whispering to Morrible)
She can read it!
MORRIBLE
What did I tell you?
The CHANTING seems to emanate from so deep inside her that
the Wizard, Morrible, and Glinda involuntarily back away,
stunned by this wild, fierce power she's channeling.
108
But Elphaba becomes aware of... is that MOANING--? Then
suddenly: A YELP OF PAIN! Elphaba turns, startled, to see
Chistery; he's twitching...
ELPHABA
Chistery! Are you all right?
Chistery tears frantically at his waistcoat; MOANS. Elphaba
starts towards him, but Morrible guides her back...
MORRIBLE
It's just the transition, Dearie...
GLINDA
(to Elphaba)
It's just the transition.
ELPHABA
But it's hurting him !
Elphaba breaks free-- rushes to Chistery--
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Chistery, what's wrong?
Chistery GROANS, writhing, then his waistcoat rips open.
Morrible and the Wizard are now studying Chistery, like two
scientists; Glinda is silent, frozen. Then Elphaba GASPS as
WINGS BURST OUT OF CHISTERY'S BACK.
As his new wings flap, Chistery rises off the ground for a
moment, before falling back down.
WIZARD
Glory-osky!
GLIND A
You... did it, you actually...
ELPHABA
He's in pain--!
(to Morrible, desperate)
Quick, how do I reverse it?
MORRIBLE
Reverse it? A spell from The
Grimmerie can never be reversed,
did we not cover that--?
THE SOUND OF FLAPPING WINGS drowns her out. Elphaba rushes
past her, towards the SOUND...
87 87
OMITTED
109
88 88
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - HALL OF GRANDIOSITY - SAME
...where she discovers: the other Monkey Guards struggling,
writhing-- SPROUTING WINGS.
ELPHABA
Oh no... no...!
Unable to control their new wings, the Monkeys start to zoom
into the air, careening like bats with no radar. Elphaba
backs away, horrified.
The Wizard, Morrible, and Glinda appear, staring, amazed. The
Wizard and Morrible turn to each other-- unable to hide their
joy.
MORRIBLE
(to the Wizard)
I knew it! I knew she had the
power, I told you!
Glinda looks at Elphaba, manages to speak--
GLINDA
That was... astoundifying!
WIZARD
(to Morrible)
It's what we hoped for! Eyes in the
skies!
MORRIBLE
Yes, they'll make perfect spies!
Elphaba hears this, but-- can't make sense of it--
ELPHABA
Spies??!
The Wizard turns to Elphaba, and leads her back into...
88A 88A
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - THRONE ROOM
WIZARD
You're right. That's a harsh word.
How about... scouts? They'll fly
around Oz-- and report back any
seditious Animal activity!
Elphaba starts to put the pieces together.
ELPHABA
Seditious Animal activity? What are
you...?
110
GLINDA
I'm sure the Wizard has a good
reason...
Elphaba stares at the Wizard, realizing...
ELPHABA
It's-- you. You're behind it all.
People, turning against the
Animals... it's because of you.
MORRIBLE
We're doing this to keep people
safe. All of Oz will benefit.
ELPHABA
(to Morrible, realizing)
You've known all along... from the
moment you met me.
Morrible immediately tries to reassure her--
MORRIBLE
You w ill benefit, too, Dearie. You
must trust me--
WIZARD
Elphaba... when I first got here,
there was discord and discontent--
and back where I come from,
everyone knows the best way to
bring folks together is-- give them
a really good enemy.
Elphaba stares at both of them, seeing them with new eyes,
and then, almost against her will, she starts to understand.
That the two people she most admires-- used h er.
ELPHABA
(to herself)
But-- if you wanted spies... why
not just make them yourself?
Elphaba opens the Grimmerie, then turns the book around to
show him the page of indecipherable symbols.
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Read it. Cast a spell.
Glinda GASPS at Elphaba's insolence.
MORRIBLE
Miss Elphaba, you are talking to
the Wizard of Oz!
111
ELPHABA
(to the Wizard)
You can't read this book at all,
can you?
(off his silence)
CAN YOU?!
The Wizard walks slowly towards Elphaba, speaking gently to
her, as if calming a spooked horse...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
That's why you need spies. And
cages... and an enemy.
(a revelation)
You have no real power.
The Wizard looks at Elphaba. No pretense. No guile.
WIZARD
Exactly. That's why I need you.
She looks back at him, hor rified, everything she's ever been
taught, ever believed-- crumbling--
MORRIBLE
Think of your future, Dearie!
The Wizard and Morrible move closer and closer to her-- and
Elphaba's eyes darken with rage.
ELPHABA
Stay back!
Elphaba's eyes darken with rage. Startled, Chistery, along
with the two other Monkey Guards, flaps up to the ceiling--
Elphaba stares up at Chistery-- clearly frightened, and in
pain. She can HEAR THE BEATING OF THE OTHER MONKEYS' WING,
from out in the hall. All of it-- her doing.
The Wizard catches Glinda's eye-- Reason with her!
GLINDA
Elphie, listen to them. Please.
WIZARD
That's good advice, young lady.
He follows Elphaba's eyes: UP TO THE MONKEYS...
WIZARD (CONT'D)
If you can do this, first time
out... why, there's no telling how
far you can go!
112
Elphaba has stopped backing away.
WIZARD (CONT'D)
And I meant every word, about you
having a home here.
She's focused on the Wizard with every fiber of her being. Is
he persuading her?
WIZARD (CONT'D)
It'll be you, and me, and, hey-- if
it makes you happy-- maybe even
your friend here--?
Glinda's jaw drops. Her dream, coming true?
GLINDA
Really?
WIZARD
Why not?
(sings)
THE TWO OF YOU, IT'S TIME I RAISED YOU HIGH
THE TIME H AS COME
FOR YOU TO HAVE THE CHANCE TO--
ELPHABA
NO!
Elphaba, still holding the Grimmerie-- runs out!
MORRIBLE
Elphaba--!
The Wizard looks at Morrible in horror, who then turns to
Glinda, cold as ice--
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
You want to do yourself some good?
Get her back!
Glinda, scared, nods, then-- runs out. The door SLAMS.
88B 88B
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - HALL OF GRANDIOSITY - CONTINUOUS
Morrible enters the hall, addresses the Monkeys--
MORRIBLE
If you want to do yourselves some
good, and keep your families safe--
you'll stay loyal to our Wizard!
The Monkeys rise into the air...
113
MORRIBLE (CONT'D)
Don't let her get away...!
At that, the Monkeys explode out of every window, doorway,
and skylight.
89 89
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - EMERALD HALLWAY - SAME
Elphaba runs down a hallway made completely of emeralds as
Glinda chases after her--
GLINDA
Elphie, wait!!
Elphaba ignores her, tries various doors along the way-- all
locked. Elphaba keeps running, Glinda is falling behind.
The shadows of flying Monkeys dart across the semi-
translucent, emerald walls. Shit's getting real.
GLINDA (CONT'D)
Elphaba--! Please, just--
The SCREECHING of the Monkeys gets LOUDER, comes closer--
then a Monkey's arm grabs at Elphaba. Glinda screams--
Elphaba barely escapes its grasp, then runs down the hall and
skids around a corner-- where the hall comes to an abrupt
stop.
She bangs the dead end of the hallway in frustration, and a
narrow, hidden door springs open-- she slips through--
ON GLINDA: catching up to Elphaba, the Monkeys FLYING towards
her, gaining on her...
Glinda skids around the same corner, hits the same dead end,
when suddenly, a green hand appears and yanks her through the
secret door, and SLAM! The door shuts behind her.
90 90
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - THRONE ROOM/CONTROL ROOM - SAME
The Wizard stands behind the curtain, frantically pulls some
levers, and the Oz head comes to life--
OZ HEAD VOICE
GUARDS! GUARDS!
The human Guards race into the Throne Room and stand at
attention.
114
91 91
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - DARKENED ROOM - SAME
Elphaba LOCKS the door behind Glinda. It's dark, except for
the moonlight shining through a skylight in the roof. The
girls STRUGGLE TO CATCH THEIR BREATH.
GALINDA
Where are we? Elphie, please, just--
WIZARD'S OZ HEAD VOICE (O.S.)
Guards! There's a fugitive at large
in the palace! Bring her to me!
GLINDA
Elphie. Listen to me--
But Elphaba is staring at a piece of colorful fabric in the
distance, illu minated by the moonlight...
Elphaba steps closer, and realizes--
ELPHABA
Glinda, look.
Glinda follows Elphaba's gaze, GASPS. Suddenly, we see what
they do...
It's the Wizard's giant hot air balloon, deflated, hanging
from the ceiling by its basket.
Just then, the GUARDS BANG loudly against the door.
GUARD (O.S.)
Open up!!
The girls look at each other. Where can they go? They run
towards the balloon, grabbing onto its tethers, pulling
themselves up.
They struggle as they climb up the fabric, using decorative
hooks, webbing, and ropes to yank themselves higher.
Suddenly-- The Guards smash through the door with a battering
ram!
Elphaba and Glinda climb faster, finally reaching the wicker
basket hanging from the ceiling. They struggle to climb into
it, then look down to see:
The guards have started to climb the balloon. Glinda and
Elphaba look around, desperate...
Elphaba grabs for a sand-bag inside the basket, to throw at
them, accidentally triggering the burner mechanism!
115
The balloon starts to rise-- to the very top of the palace.
92 92
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - LOWER ATTIC - SAME TIME
Elphaba and Glinda scramble from the balloon's basket onto
stairs that lead into
An attic space, cluttered with cobwebs and various dust-
covered objects from the Wizard's carny past: a unicycle, a
set of juggling clubs, a push-cart labeled "Potions N'
Potables" with an old broom on top of it.
Elphaba swiftly pulls a rope loose, and the balloon plummets
down, onto the Guards, below.
Elphaba pushes the cart against the door, barricading it,
while Glinda paces, fueled with adrenaline and fear.
GLINDA
Oh, this is not, not, not good...
But Elphaba is ignoring her. She's staring at the Wizard's
possessions, and we now see that many of them are rudimentary
prototypes of military uniforms, fantastical inventions, and
symbols of power we have seen throughout Oz. Symbols that
Elphaba o nce revered, now revealed to be so fake, so empty...
GLINDA (CONT'D)
Why couldn't you stay calm for
once?! Instead of flying off the
handle--?
SONG: "DEFYING GRAVITY"
GLINDA (CONT'D)
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY NOW
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY HOW
YOU HURT YOUR CAUSE FOREVER
I HOPE YOU THINK YOU'RE CLEVER
Elphaba whirls on her, equally furious--
ELPHABA
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY TOO
I HOPE YOU'RE PROUD HOW YOU
WOULD GROVEL IN SUBMISSION
TO FEED YOUR OWN AMBITION
BOTH
(glaring at each other)
SO THOUGH I CAN'T IMAGINE HOW
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY RIGHT NOW--
116
Suddenly both break off, HEARING--
MORRIBLE'S VOICE
Citizens of Oz! There is an enemy
who must be found and captured!
CUT TO:
93 93
EXT. WIZARD'S PALACE - PALACE STEPS - SAME
Morrible is broadcasting with an Ozian microphone:
MORRIBLE (INTO MICROPHONE)
Believe nothing she says!
94 94
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - LOWER ATTIC - SAME
Elphaba and Glinda listen, frozen, barely breathing, as
Morrible's voice is broadcast throughout the palace--
MORRIBLE'S VOICE
She is evil-- responsible for the
mutilation of these poor innocent
monkeys!
GLINDA
Oh no--
MADAME MORRIBLE (SPEAKERS)
Her green skin is but an outward
manifestorium of her twisted
nature. This-- distortion, this--
repulsion, this-- Wicked Witch!
Glinda, shaken by Morrible's wo rds, turns to her friend--
GLINDA
Don't be afraid.
ELPHABA
(after a beat)
I'm not. It's the Wizard who should
be afraid. Of me!
(then)
I've got the book. And I'm going to
tell everyone the truth.
Glinda sees her quiet; reflective, takes this as an opening--
GLINDA
Elphaba. Listen to me-- just say
you're sorry--
117
YOU CAN STILL BE WITH THE WIZARD
WHAT YOU'VE WORKED AND WAITED FOR
YOU CAN HAVE ALL YOU EVER WANTED...
ELPHABA
I know.
(sings)
BUT I DON'T WANT IT--
NO-- I CAN'T WANT IT
ANYMORE...
(with new understanding)
I'm not that girl.
(sings)
SOMETHING HAS CHANGED WITHIN ME
SOMETHING IS NOT THE SAME
I'M THROUGH WITH PLAYING BY THE RULES OF
SOMEONE ELSE'S GAME
She's backing away from his pathetic carny stuff, from all
the fraudulence and lies surrounding her...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
TOO LATE FOR SECOND GUESSING
TOO LATE TO GO BACK TO SLEEP
IT'S TIME TO TRUST MY INSTINCTS
CLOSE MY EYES AND LEAP
Elphaba backs into a narrow spiral stairway. She looks up: is
that a shaft of sunlight? She starts up...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
IT'S TIME TO TRY
DEFYING GRAVITY
I THINK I'LL TRY
DEFYING GRAVITY
AND YOU CAN'T PULL ME DOWN...
Glinda starts after her...
GLINDA
CAN'T I MAKE YOU UNDERSTAND, YOU'RE
HAVING DELUSIONS OF GRANDEUR...?
Elphaba's not listening, she's climbing; higher and higher--
the stairway starts trembling ever so slightly-- is it
because the steps are rickety--? Or because--
ELPHABA
I'M THROUGH ACCEPTING LIMITS
'CAUSE SOMEONE SAYS THEY'RE SO
SOME THINGS I CANNOT CHANGE BUT TILL I TRY,
I'LL NEVER KNOW
TOO LONG I'VE BEEN AFRAID OF
LOSING LOVE I GUESS I'VE LOST
118
WELL, IF THAT'S LOVE
IT COMES AT MUCH TOO HIGH A COST
I'D SOONER BUY
DEFYING GRAVITY
KISS ME GOODBYE
I'M DEFYING GRAVITY
AND YOU CAN'T PULL ME DOWN...
Elphaba reaches...
95 95
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - UPPER ATTIC - SAME
It's really just a platform, with a window, covered by a
tattered black drape. Elphaba kneels, opens the Grimmerie...
GLINDA (O.S.)
No!
Glinda reaches her. Elphaba ignores her, STARTS TO CHANT--
GLINDA (CONT'D)
Not that horrendible levitation
spell!?
ELPHABA
How else do we get out of here?!
Elphaba continues to CHANT. Glinda slams the Grimmerie shut.
GLINDA
STOP!
Elphaba STOPS CHANTING. Glinda braces herself for wings, but--
GLINDA (CONT'D)
Well? Where are your wings? Maybe
you're not as powerful as you--
Glinda stops, staring at something behind Elphaba, in shock--
GLINDA (CONT'D)
--think you are...
ELPHABA
Glinda...? What is it...?
Glinda can't speak, she's staring at whatever new, bizarre
entity is looming above Elphaba, just behind her head.
Elphaba turns... and sees...
A BROOM floating in the air. Slowly, purposefully... it
floats closer... her destiny, coming towards her.
Elphaba and Glinda HEAR POUNDING on the door below--
119
GUARD 1 (OS.)
Open up! In the name of the Wizard!
And the Broom snaps itself, as if magnetized, into her hand!
Elphaba stares at it, then rushes to the window, rips away
the drape, throws it open-- A GUST OF WIND BLOWS IN.
ELPHABA
Quick! Get on!
Glinda stares at her, speechless. Elphaba climbs out onto the
window ledge, turns back to Glinda--
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Come with me. Think of what we
could do-- together.
(sings)
UNLIMITED
TOGETHER WE'RE UNLIMITED
TOGETHER WE'LL BE THE GREATEST TEAM THERE'S
EVER BEEN
GLINDA-- DREAMS THE WAY WE PLANNED `EM
GLINDA
IF WE WORK IN TANDEM...
BOTH
THERE'S NO FIGHT WE CANNOT WIN
JUST YOU AND I
DEFYING GRAVITY
WITH YOU AND I
DEFYING GRAVITY
ELPHABA
THEY'LL NEVER BRING US DOWN...
Elphaba looks at Glinda, filled with hope--
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
Well? Are you coming?
Glinda stares at her, and for one glorious moment, it
feels... possible! Until she realizes: it's not. She can't.
And Elphaba sees her friend realize this... and is forced to
relinquish that dream. She clutches the Broom tighter.
GLINDA
Elphie, you're trembling. Here--
put this around you.
Glinda picks up the drape, and wraps it around her shoulders.
It's all she can give her now.
120
Another gust of wind makes the drape around her flutter. And
standing there, against the sky, cloaked in black, with her
pointy black hat and Broom, Elphaba becomes, before our eyes--
The Wicked Witch of The West.
MORE POUNDING, like the door is breaking. FOOTSTEPS. The two
young women regard each other. This is it.
GLINDA (CONT'D)
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY
NOW THAT YOU'RE CHOOSING THIS...
ELPHABA
YOU TOO--
GLINDA
I HOPE IT BRINGS YOU BLISS
BOTH
I REALLY HOPE YOU GET IT
AND YOU DON'T LIVE TO REGRET IT
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY IN THE END
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY, MY FRIEND...
The Guards reach the top of the stairs, muskets pointed at
them. Glinda tries to block their path to Elphaba--but two of
the guards grab Glinda, she SHRIEKS--
ELPHABA
Let her go! It's me, I'm the one
you want!
The Guards swarm onto the
UPPER PART OF THE ATTIC, Glinda climbs out there-- Elphaba is
moving toward edge-- as the Guards close in--
GLINDA
Elphie, nooo!
ELPHABA
It's me!
Elphaba runs-- leaps over the edge, and suddenly
SILENCE. IN HER POV. Eyes shut, she's falling, spinning: and
now she's hearing all the harsh, judgmental voices that have
echoed throughout her life-- the unkind whispers, the cruel,
condescending words of strangers, bullies-- her father...
Then she opens her eyes, and--
She sees HER CHILD SELF-- right there, reaching out a small,
green hand-- Elphaba grabs hold, and suddenly--
121
It's THE BROOM she's grasping! And just as she's about to hit
the ground-- she rights herself, and-- she's flying--!
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
IT'S MEE!!!
(sings)
SO IF YOU CARE TO FIND ME
LOOK TO THE WESTERN SKY
AS SOMEONE TOLD ME LATELY:
"EV'RYONE DESERVES THE CHANCE TO FLY"
She leaves it all behind-- the stupefied Guards, Glinda, her
entire previous life-- as she swoops and circles the palace--
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
AND IF I'M FLYING SOLO
AT LEAST I'M FLYING FREE
TO THOSE WHO'D GROUND ME
TAKE A MESSAGE BACK FROM ME:
TELL THEM HOW I
AM DEFYING GRAVIT Y
I'M FLYING HIGH
DEFYING GRAVITY
AND SOON I'LL MATCH THEM IN RENOWN
WE HEAR A THUNDEROUS BEATING OF WINGS-- Elphaba whips around:
Flying Monkeys, led by Chistery, are coming straight for her!
She soars higher-- higher-- out of their reach; looks down...
She can see it all now: the entire land. Everything--
And as the MUSIC BUILDS, we fly across Oz...
ELPHABA (CONT'D)
(sings)
UN-LIM-I-TED--
96 96
INT. MUNCHKINLAND - GOVERNOR'S MANSION - SAME
Governor Thropp and Nessa hear, over their Ozian radio--
MORRIBLE (V.O.)
She has stolen our Grimmerie!
Thropp stands, furious, then staggers, collapses... Nessa,
horrified, rolls to him...
97 97
EXT. SKY - NIGHT
ELPHABA
(sings)
UN-LIM-I-TED--!
122
98 98
EXT. SHIZ - ENTRANCE COURTYARD - NIGHT
Pandemonium. STUDENTS clutch suitcases, run in all
directions...
DOWN BY THE BOATS: Boq, alone, looks up and catches sight of:
FIYERO, on his HORSE. He turns away from Boq and gallops off.
98A 98A
EXT. SHIZ GATES
Fiyero rides away from Shiz...
99 99
EXT. THE SKY - SAME
Elphaba continues to fly...
ELPHABA
UN-LIM-I-TED!
100 100
OMITTED
101 101
INT. WIZARD'S PALACE - UPPER ATTIC - NIGHT
Glinda sits slumped, despondent, on the floor; flanked by two
Guards. She HEARS something, scrambles to her feet--
It's Morrible... who moves silently closer, and then-- pulls
Glinda into an embrace.
We glimpse both relief and fear in Glinda's eyes...
102 102
OMITTED
103 103
INT./EXT. SKY/PROPAGANDA ROOM - NIGHT
Elphaba, flies, then... suddenly hovers, mid-air, spotting:
THE WIZARD, at his window, staring out at her. For a split
second their eyes meet...
ELPHABA
AND NOBODY IN ALL OF OZ--
NO WIZARD THAT THERE IS OR WAS--
IS EVER GONNA BRING ME DOWN!
104 104
INT./EXT. UPPER ATTIC - SAME TIME
The Guards scan the skies. Near them, so does Glinda--
GLINDA
I HOPE YOU'RE HAPPY...
Morrible leads her away, as the Guards take aim--
123
GUARDS
LOOK AT HER, SHE'S WICKED!
KILL HER!
105 105
OMITTED
106 106
EXT. SKY - SAME TIME
ELPHABA
BRING ME DOWN!
Down below, Ozians stare up at her, horrified--
OZIANS (O.S.)
NO ONE MOURNS THE WICKED
SO WE'VE GOT TO BRING HER ...
But no one can touch her. Elphaba comes into her power, and
she's no longer afraid of that power-- she's embracing it.
ELPHABA
(a triumphant cry)
AHHHH!
And as we HEAR:
OZIANS (O.S.)
DOWN!
The flying Monkeys seem to be gaining on her-- but Elphaba
explodes into hyperdr ive! And disappears from our sight.
END PART ONE
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