Nessarose, known as the Wicked Witch of the East, takes center stage in her role as the authoritative figure in Munchkinland, a position she inherited after the passing of her and Elphaba’s father. The film adaptation aligns closely with the musical, where this transition of power is a pivotal plot point. However, in a slight divergence, the film has Elphaba already aware of her father’s demise, while the stage production reveals this through Nessarose herself.

Driven by unrequited love, Nessarose has enlisted Boq, played by Ethan Slater, as her servant. She clings to the hope that Boq will eventually reciprocate her feelings. In an intriguing twist, the film depicts Nessarose granting Boq the freedom to follow his heart towards Glinda, whom he still loves. Yet, Boq’s realization of the restrictions placed upon him becomes apparent when he discovers that traveling requires a permit, thwarting his plans at the train station.

Returning to Nessarose, Boq finds himself amidst family drama as Elphaba arrives seeking her sister’s assistance. The film enriches this moment with new lyrics in “The Wicked Witch of the East,” deepening Nessarose’s reflection on their shared past at Shiz and her grievances against Elphaba. In the stage version, Elphaba’s enchantment of Nessarose’s silver shoes allows her to walk, liberating her from her wheelchair. Conversely, the film opts for a magical twist, making Nessarose float, yet ultimately returning her to her wheelchair, adding a layer of complexity to her character’s journey.

He then returns to Nessarose before Elphaba appears to ask for her sister’s help. In new lyrics added to “The Wicked Witch of the East,” Nessarose reminisces about their past at Shiz as she blames Elphaba for her misfortune. In the musical, Elphaba enchants her sister’s silver shoes which helps Nessarose get out of her wheelchair and begin walking. In the movie, however, Elphaba enchants the shoes to make Nessarose float, as she returns to her wheelchair.