“Wicked” debuted in 2003 and quickly became a sensation. Originating on Broadway, the show has become the second-highest-grossing musical of all time, second to “The Lion King.” It was inevitable that such a popular musical would eventually be adapted into a movie, and now that mission has been completed. Directed by Jon M. Chu, “Wicked: For Good” brings the story of Oz to a close.
The decision to split the stage musical into two separate films was something that received mixed feelings from fans. Some fans appreciated the extra attention to detail that splitting the story allowed, while others did not see the point when the musical exists as a one-part show that lasts three hours. We believe that the choice to create two films — with “Wicked: For Good” clocking in at 2 hours and 17 minutes — was the correct one.
Both movies were beautifully executed and the amount of character development that was able to be explored in each film added to the overall story. We do recommend that any viewer indulge in both films, as they are two halves of one whole.
Now, as we step into reviewing “Wicked: For Good,” we want to preface with a spoiler warning. We will attempt to not share too many details, but if any viewer wants a full surprise, we advise that they turn away now.
As established in “Wicked,” Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) exist within the world of Oz. The first film ended with Elphaba discovering the hoax surrounding the Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum) and the oppression he is applying to the animals of their world. This discovery causes Elphaba’s world to flip and sets up the entire second installment.
Stepping away from Shiz University, “Wicked: For Good” involves a time skip of approximately five years and we find our characters in different parts of their lives.
Elphaba is hiding in the woods as she attempts to expose the Wizard and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) for their deception toward the citizens of Oz. Glinda has become a microphone for propaganda, feeding into the lies and villainous narrative that is being painted of Elphaba, all while falling in love with her eventual fiancee, Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey). Elphaba’s sister, Nessarose (Marissa Bode) has become the governor of Munchkinland following the death of her father, a struggle that Boq (Ethan Slater) has been supporting her through.
Different dynamics are put to the test throughout “Wicked: For Good.” Glinda and Elphaba, whose relationship grew from a rivalry to friendship in the first film, return back to their rivalry, their roles in Oz foiling each other. Even throughout the second installment, their relationship is a full-blown rollercoaster.
Connected in “love triangle” that emerges between the two and Fiyero, they reach a breaking point that results in a physical altercation. Viewers should prepare to watch Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West fight in both a moment of comedic relief, but additionally an example of just how distant they have become.
A fear that we had going into viewing this film was that the extended second half could have been made things less enticing, but the execution of changes/additions was done seamlessly. A notable change from the musical was the portrayal of Nessarose’s feelings toward Boq. Differing from the stage adaptation, Bode portrays Nessarose’s growing obsession with Boq and their connection in a darker aspect. She does everything in her power to keep them together. We appreciated Bode’s adaptation of Nessarose and her growing anger toward both Elphaba and Boq in this second film.
Although there had been hints of it, romance is more central to “Wicked: For Good.” Due to the love triangle that connected Elphaba to Fiyero and Glinda to Fiyero, Bailey spent most of his scenes opposite both Erivo and Grande. To put it simply, Bailey’s ability to have chemistry with anyone is on its own level, and we fully believe that he could manage to star opposite a wall and the chemistry would be just as strong.
Personally, both of us were eager to hear the musical numbers of the second installment, and they did not disappoint. Erivo’s rendition of “No Good Deed” and her duet with Bailey on “As Long As You’re Mine” exceeded expectations. Grande’s performance of “Thank Goodness” was perfect, and it was quite literally music to our ears.
“Wicked: For Good” also included two new songs, “Girl in the Bubble” and “No Place Like Home” sung by Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. Both songs add to each character’s story and, while some critics argue that they were not necessary, we believe they further explored the inner thoughts of both characters, with Glinda showcasing her realization of the facade she had been trapped in and the turning point in her journey, where Elphaba’s plan becomes understood. Elphaba attempts to convince the animals of Oz that they are valued and that Oz could return to the glory that it had once before, a true testament to her love and devotion to preserving the vision of their world that she had always had.
Outside of the acting and singing performances, the cinematography was remarkable. With Alice Brooks, who performed as the cinematographer for both “Wicked” and “Wicked: For Good,” the film captured the mystic and magic of Oz. Multiple times throughout the film, we were in awe of the shots and captures of scenery.
“Wicked: For Good” is rated PG, as it involves a few scenes of violence and things that some younger children may find fearful. One could argue that “Wicked: For Good” includes darker themes than its predecessor, combined with the deeper exploration of romance in the plot. As a result, parents should view the film first before introducing it to their children.
“Wicked: For Good” is a masterclass in storytelling, performance, and film construction. We believe that the second film, which feels faster paced due to more material in less time, is arguably better than the first. A true five out of five stars. The film shows all viewers how friendship changes people for good, which echoed through the friendship that formed between the two starring actresses.
We implore anyone to watch this movie and prepare for laughs, tears, and a message of resilience, acceptance, and love.
–Nov. 20, 2025–
