Big, ugly tears streamed down my face as I sat in the crowded Drexel Theater after watching “Wicked: For Good,” stunned by the remarkable story that had unfolded before me on the silver screen. The powerful songs, plot, incredible visuals and actors had me overwhelmed with emotion.
Since the release of the first movie last year, I longed to return to the wonderful world of Oz. Despite my enthusiasm, I was nervous the sequel would not live up to the high standards the first film set.
However, with my “Wicked” t-shirt on and friends and family by my side, I knew I was in for something truly special.
“Wicked: For Good” is set five years after the first film. The tonal shift from the first movie to the second is very noticeable. “Wicked: Part I” had a lighthearted quality to it and focused on Elphaba and Glinda’s growing friendship. The sequel, however, deals with more nuanced, darker topics as it follows the aftermath of Elphaba’s escape in the first movie.
The plot addresses themes of discrimination, political corruption and the dangers of unchecked power. Citizens in Oz cast Elphaba out because of her green appearance and, driven by Madame Morrible’s (Michelle Yeoh) and the Wizard’s (Jeff Goldblum) propaganda, exile her as the fugitive “Wicked Witch of the West.” Also, the Wizard manipulates the public by appearing as all-powerful, when he actually possesses no true magic.
The movie stands as a celebration of individuality and female friendship and a commentary on what defines “goodness.” “Wicked: For Good” is a timeless allegory for discrimination that is increasingly relevant in today’s society.
An intriguing element of the sequel is the addition of two new songs written by the original musical’s composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. The songs “No Place Like Home,” sung by Erivo, and “The Girl in the Bubble,” sung by Grande, premiere in the film.
Grande’s song gives viewers a look at Glinda’s emotional journey as she con-
templates standing up against Madame Morrible’s regime, while Erivo’s ballad is an empowering anthem that serves as an ironic parallel to lines Dorothy (Judy Garland) says in “The Wizard of Oz.” She sings about loving a place that doesn’t love her back, a theme that is deeply unsettling and
relevant today.
Although the songs are compelling, I do not think they were necessary to the plot sequence. I enjoyed the messages both songs presented, but I also felt some of the melodies were tired and bland.
The events of “Wicked: For Good” occur alongside Dorothy’s adventure through Oz. Everything that takes place in “The Wizard of Oz” is a result of actions taken in “Wicked: For Good,” creating a satisfying connection between the two films. Beloved characters like the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow are also given backstories in the sequel, offering an interesting twist to the plot.
One of the most magical moments of the movie is when Erivo and Grande sing “For Good.” It is inspiring to watch the remarkable women, hand in hand, expressing their love for one another through song. I couldn’t help but think of the people in my life who have put a “handprint on my heart.”
One thing I found myself missing in the sequel was the iconic choreography of the first movie. However, the vibrant routines of “Dancing Through Life” and “What is this Feeling” from the first movie would be inappropriate for the mature tone of “Wicked: For Good.” Viewers must be prepared for a jarring mood shift between the first and second parts of the “Wicked” saga.
Similarly, I was longing to see more elaborate costumes. It seemed like in every scene there were new intricate outfits during “Wicked: Part I,” but the second film was lacking in the costume department.
Stage-to-screen adaptations are challenging, and many attempts risk falling flat like the infamous 2019 musical movie “Cats.” Often, Broadway-inspired films can come off as cheesy and are not able to fully capture the impact stage productions have. I found “Wicked: For Good” was not only able to amplify the essence of the musical but also breathe new life into it.
“Wicked: For Good” wonderfully represents the original musical while also adding its own modern, cinematic spin. There is no question this film will leave you with a brand new catalog of music to get stuck in your head and a greater appreciation for the people you love most.
Published and digitized December 2025.
