By Mr. Will Wong
Jon M. Chu has gifted us with two spectacular, sweeping films, concluding his two-part epic with WICKED: FOR GOOD. Going to darker places, this is a perfect conclusion that will delight WICKED fans, old and new. You don’t need to have seen the Musical to appreciate the grand scale of this experience.
This installment focuses on themes of atonement, reconciliation and consequence after some of the damage done in the prior film. Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) has been banished from Oz and plots her return back to show the world that she isn’t an “evil witch”, and has good, pure intentions. Meanwhile Glinda (Ariana Grande) continues to see her rise as “the good queen”, being pit against her best friend, Elphaba. The public needs a hero and that must come at the expense of Elphaba being vilified and they want her gone for good. Glinda must reconcile secretly protecting Elphaba, yet also cope with the fact that Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) in fact loves Elphaba, just as Glinda and Fiyero are about to wed. All will get caught in the crossfires amidst this storm of emotions, but at what cost will it come for the public to get rid of Elphaba?
WICKED: FOR GOOD goes to darker places and has our two leads confronting perhaps their biggest obstacles – themselves and the things that are holding them back from becoming who they truly are meant to become. Even if it means things getting very uncomfortable and damaged between Glinda and Elphaba. While the first film felt lighter and more whimsical, this second film feels more grounded and has depth and substance. This, together with the outstanding set, production and costume design, plus CGI make this a real complete experience for the moviegoer.
What more can be said about Erivo‘s superb work as Elphaba that hasn’t been said. The Film gives her the space to showcase that mesmerizing voice and acting, while Grande dare I say, is even better here. Her performance feels even more grounded, and has us even more invested in Glinda. Truly magnificent work here from this pair who rightfully have again earned a place in awards discussion this season.
Fans will be delighted by this conclusion that proves well worth the price of admission. Two classic films which will cherished as classics for generations to come.
Universal Pictures Canada release WICKED: FOR GOOD November 21, 2025.
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