For the Kids in the Back

This movie is about fascism, plain and simple. The Wizard is your archetypal fascist leader: all show, no substance. He’s a fraud, hiding behind smoke and mirrors, much like Donald Trump—a man who’s failed at nearly everything he’s touched, from bankrupt casinos to gimmicks like Trump Steaks and Trump Vodka. Yet, like the Wizard, he thrives on perception, convincing people he’s powerful when he’s really just a con artist in an ill fitting shiny suit. Fascism doesn’t need competence—it runs on lies.

Then there’s the scapegoating. In Oz, it’s the talking animals; in real life, it’s immigrants, minorities, or any group a demagogue can blame for society’s problems. This is classic fascist playbook stuff: redirect anger and fear away from the people in charge and aim it at someone weaker. It’s a cheap trick, but it works. The citizens of Oz—and plenty of people here in America—fall for it every time. It’s easier to hate a scapegoat than confront the fact that the so-called leader is a fraud.

And let’s not forget Madame Morrible, who embodies the media hacks and pundits who sell out to prop up the fascistic system. She knows the Wizard is powerless, but she benefits from his charade. Just like certain cable news personalities and political commentators, she trades truth for personal gain.

Lastly, these are the 14 Characteristics of Fascism by political scientist Lawrence Britt found in the musical Wicked

Lawrence Britt’s “The 14 Characteristics of Fascism” provides a framework for identifying fascist regimes, and elements of these can be found in Wicked. The musical’s portrayal of the Wizard’s regime in Oz aligns with most of these traits. Here’s how:

1. Powerful and Continuing Nationalism

• The Wizard promotes unity and patriotism around the idea of a “perfect” Oz, portraying himself as the savior who has brought order to the land. The propaganda reinforces loyalty to Oz and distrust of outsiders like Elphaba.

2. Disdain for the Recognition of Human Rights

• The Wizard’s regime systematically oppresses intelligent animals like Doctor Dillamond, stripping them of their rights and freedom to speak or teach. This mirrors the suppression of individual liberties.

3. Identification of Enemies/Scapegoats as a Unifying Cause

• Elphaba is painted as the “Wicked Witch,” a scapegoat to distract from the Wizard’s failings. This demonization unites the citizens of Oz against a common enemy. Not to mention the Wizards war against the smallest minority group, the sentient animals.

4. Supremacy of the Military

• While not overtly militaristic, the Wizard relies on enforcers like Madame Morrible and her magical abilities to maintain control, emphasizing power and dominance over opposition.

5. Rampant Sexism

• Madame Morrible’s manipulation of Glinda and Elphaba reflects the expectation that women should conform to roles serving the regime. However, this is subverted as both women rebel in their own ways.

6. Controlled Mass Media

• The Wizard uses propaganda to control the narrative, spreading false stories about Elphaba’s “wicked” deeds through mechanisms like Madame Morrible’s speeches.

7. Obsession with National Security

• The Wizard’s government fosters fear of Elphaba, portraying her as a threat to Oz’s security. This fear justifies harsh measures and the restriction of freedoms.

8. Religion and Government are Intertwined

• The Wizard presents himself as a god-like figure, blending religion with governance to legitimize his rule and demand unquestioning loyalty.

9. Corporate Power is Protected

• The Wizard’s collaboration with powerful figures, like Madame Morrible and other elites, ensures the maintenance of control. The citizens are expected to serve this hierarchy.

10. Labor Power is Suppressed

• Intelligent animals, like Doctor Dillamond, represent marginalized workers whose rights are systematically eroded, forcing them into submissive roles.

11. Disdain for Intellectuals and the Arts

• The persecution of Doctor Dillamond as a teacher demonstrates the regime’s disdain for intellectuals who might question its authority. Dr. Dillamond is not only persecuted, but so have all of the other talking animals.

12. Obsession with Crime and Punishment

• Elphaba is relentlessly hunted and punished for actions the regime deems “criminal,” even when these actions are rooted in justice or morality.

13. Rampant Cronyism and Corruption

• The Wizard surrounds himself with loyalists like Madame Morrible, who act in their own interests while maintaining the facade of serving the public.

14. Fraudulent Elections

• Though elections are not depicted, the Wizard’s rise to power is built on deceit, as he falsely claims to be the true leader of Oz, manipulating public belief to maintain his position.