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Wicked: Part Two Script Change Avoids Ableist Language
Marissa Bode, the first physically disabled actress to play Nessarose in "Wicked: Part Two," revealed a script change avoiding ableist language, focusing on the magic instead of "fixing" her character's disability; the film broke box office records.
- What role does Marissa Bode's personal experience play in shaping the portrayal of Nessarose and the film's reception?
- Bode's experience as the first physically disabled actress to play Nessarose highlights the film's commitment to authentic representation. The script change reflects a broader trend in media toward more sensitive portrayals of disability, shifting away from narratives that center on "fixing" impairments. This decision, combined with Bode's powerful advocacy against ableist online commentary, positions "Wicked: Part Two" as a significant step towards more inclusive storytelling.
- How does "Wicked: Part Two"'s script change regarding Nessarose's disability impact broader representations of disability in film?
- Marissa Bode, the actress portraying Nessarose in "Wicked: Part Two," revealed a script change made to avoid ableist language in a key scene. This alteration focuses on the magic of the story rather than portraying Nessarose's disability as something to be "fixed." The film's box office success, exceeding all previous Broadway musical adaptations, amplifies the impact of this inclusive change.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the film's approach to disability representation on audience expectations and future media productions?
- The positive reception of "Wicked: Part One" and the announced script change suggest a potential shift in audience expectations regarding disability representation in film. Future adaptations may increasingly prioritize authentic portrayal and inclusive storytelling, impacting how disability is depicted across various media. Bode's proactive response to online ableism underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and education.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative emphasizes Marissa Bode's personal experience and advocacy against ableism. While this is understandable given the context, the focus overshadows a deeper discussion on the artistic choices made in adapting the musical and the potential impact of those choices on wider audiences. The headline highlights a "deviation" from the musical, implying potential negativity, without fully exploring the positive change that it represents.
Language Bias
The article uses emotionally charged language such as "deeply uncomfortable," "gross and harmful comments," and "low-hanging fruit." While these terms reflect the gravity of the situation for Bode, they also potentially amplify the negative framing. More neutral alternatives could be used to maintain objectivity.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Marissa Bode's experience and response to online reactions, but omits perspectives from other actors, the film crew, or critics regarding the script changes and their impact. The lack of diverse viewpoints limits a complete understanding of the alterations made to the script and their overall effect.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by contrasting jokes about fictional characters with the real-world impact of ableist language. While the line is blurred with a fictional character played by a disabled actor, the article could better explore the nuances of this issue, acknowledging the potential for both valid critique of the character and harmful targeting of disabled people.
Gender Bias
The article does not exhibit overt gender bias. Both male and female perspectives (director, costume designer, actress) are presented. However, further exploration of how gender intersects with disability in this context could enrich the analysis.