Behind the Scenes of ‘Wicked’: Myron Kerstein Unveils the Emotional Core of Elphaba and Glinda’s Friendship
The enduring popularity of *Wicked*, the Broadway musical based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, has captivated audiences for over two decades. At the heart of this fantastical tale lies an unlikely but profound friendship between Elphaba, the misunderstood “Wicked Witch of the West,” and Glinda, the bubbly and seemingly perfect “Good Witch.” This bond between two seemingly opposing characters has not only been a central theme of the production but also a key emotional pillar of the story. Behind the scenes, editor Myron Kerstein plays a crucial role in shaping how these pivotal moments of connection are portrayed on screen, especially in the context of *Wicked*’s recent film adaptation.In a recent interview, Kerstein opens up about his work on the film and how he helped bring the emotional complexity of Elphaba and Glinda’s relationship to life. His insights reveal how editing and pacing enhance the human connection between the two characters, adding layers of depth to their bond. This exploration highlights the importance of the craft behind *Wicked*, shedding light on how technical aspects such as editing can elevate a performance and deepen the emotional resonance of a story.
The Core of the Friendship: A Study of Contrast and Complementation
From the very first moments of their encounter, Elphaba and Glinda’s dynamic is built on stark contrasts. Elphaba, with her green skin and rebellious nature, represents defiance against societal norms. In contrast, Glinda is the epitome of charm and social grace, often seen as the “good” counterpart. However, these two characters, who on the surface appear to be opposites, share a deep and transformative bond that evolves over time. This relationship stands as one of the most emotional and compelling elements of *Wicked*.Kerstein, who has worked on several high-profile films, explains that the strength of the Elphaba-Glinda connection lies in its complexity. As the editor, he had the responsibility of capturing the nuanced shifts in their friendship — moments of tension, compassion, and vulnerability. Whether it’s through a simple glance or a powerful duet, these emotional beats are crucial to the narrative, and editing plays a key role in pacing their interactions for maximum impact.
The Role of Editing in Shaping Emotional Depth
In the film industry, editing is often described as “the invisible art,” as it subtly guides the audience’s emotional response. In the case of *Wicked*, Kerstein’s meticulous editing style ensures that every interaction between Elphaba and Glinda carries emotional weight. Whether it’s a moment of bitter conflict or a shared moment of understanding, the timing and pacing of these scenes are pivotal.One of the most critical aspects of editing, as Kerstein points out, is selecting the right moments to linger on. When it comes to emotional scenes, especially those between Elphaba and Glinda, the power of silence and the space between lines can speak volumes. A lingering shot of Glinda’s face during a confrontation, or a pause before a heartfelt confession, allows the viewer to absorb the full emotional weight of the moment. By focusing on these intimate details, Kerstein gives the characters room to breathe, allowing the audience to feel the complexity of their relationship.
- Silent pauses are often used to heighten emotional tension.
- Close-up shots help convey internal struggles without words.
- Pacing between moments of conflict and resolution provides emotional relief and depth.
Key Moments in the Elphaba-Glinda Friendship: A Deeper Look
Several key moments in *Wicked* stand out as particularly significant to the development of Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship. One such moment is the iconic “For Good” duet, where both characters reflect on how much they’ve shaped one another’s lives. The editing in this sequence is especially important because it captures both the visual and emotional transition from rivalry to mutual respect and love. Kerstein reveals that the challenge was to ensure the scene felt both intimate and expansive. While the song’s lyrics convey a deep sense of gratitude, the way the scene is edited — alternating between close-ups and wide shots of the two characters — emphasizes the breadth of their shared history and the magnitude of their final, reconciliatory moment. The editing here not only supports the performance but also amplifies the emotional resonance of their journey together.
Another pivotal scene is the moment when Elphaba decides to stand up for her beliefs, even if it means going against Glinda. This confrontation, while initially a clash of ideals, ultimately becomes an expression of the love and respect they have for each other, despite their differences. The editing in this sequence is particularly significant in its ability to highlight the underlying tension while still maintaining the emotional foundation of their bond. The quick cuts between their emotional expressions and the moments of hesitation create a sense of urgency, yet there is always a tenderness underlying their conflict.
The Emotional and Technical Challenges of Bringing *Wicked* to the Screen
Adapting a beloved stage production into a cinematic experience is never without its challenges, and *Wicked* is no exception. Kerstein acknowledges the difficulty of translating the raw emotion and intimacy of the stage to the screen. On stage, the audience’s focus is directed by the actors’ performances and the physicality of the set, but film editing offers a different type of control. The camera allows for an intimacy and depth that the stage can’t always provide, making the timing and pacing of shots more critical than ever.The film adaptation of *Wicked* also brings a new set of emotional layers, as the visual medium allows for greater exploration of the characters’ internal worlds. The editing here, particularly in scenes involving the magical elements of the story, is key to blending the fantastical with the emotional. Kerstein emphasizes the importance of balancing spectacle with character-driven moments. In sequences where Elphaba uses magic or Glinda displays her more vulnerable side, editing helps to preserve the emotional integrity of these moments while still maintaining the grandeur of the world they inhabit.
The Broader Impact: Emotional Storytelling in Modern Cinema
The evolution of editing in modern cinema is closely tied to the growing emphasis on emotional storytelling. Filmmakers and editors today are increasingly aware of how their craft shapes the emotional journey of the audience. *Wicked*, with its complex relationships and larger-than-life characters, exemplifies the power of editing to enhance emotional storytelling. Kerstein’s work highlights an ongoing trend in cinematic editing: the prioritization of emotion over spectacle. While special effects and stunning visuals can certainly captivate an audience, it is often the quieter, more intimate moments that resonate long after the film ends. In this way, *Wicked* reflects a broader shift in cinema, where the audience’s emotional connection to the characters takes precedence over traditional action or plot-driven storytelling.
Conclusion: The Magic of Editing in Building Emotional Connections
The friendship between Elphaba and Glinda in *Wicked* is a testament to the transformative power of human connection. Through the art of editing, Myron Kerstein has helped to bring these characters to life in ways that resonate deeply with audiences. By focusing on the emotional beats, allowing moments of silence and vulnerability, and carefully pacing their relationship, Kerstein and the team behind *Wicked* have ensured that the friendship between the two witches is as unforgettable on screen as it is on stage.Ultimately, the success of *Wicked* — both as a musical and as a film — lies not just in its spectacular visuals and musical numbers, but in its ability to convey the emotional complexity of its characters. Through careful editing, these moments of connection are brought to the forefront, allowing audiences to experience the depth of Elphaba and Glinda’s bond in a way that transcends the stage and becomes a universal tale of friendship, acceptance, and growth.For further insights into the art of film editing and emotional storytelling, check out [Film Editing Techniques: The Invisible Art](https://www.filmediting.com) for more resources and in-depth articles.
See more CNET Live