‘Wicked: For Good’ Splits Opinion Despite Standout Performances

Wicked: For Good, the much-anticipated sequel to last year’s successful musical adaptation, has finally arrived, returning audiences to the richly imagined land of Oz. Released on Friday, the film continues the intertwined story of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring how the two iconic characters evolved into the figures audiences have long known from the broader Wizard of Oz universe. While anticipation was high following the overwhelming success of the first film, the sequel has generated a notably divided critical response. Strong performances, particularly from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, have been widely praised, even as other aspects of the film drew mixed or negative reactions.

The new chapter expands on the origins of many familiar characters, offering fresh backstories for the Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, and Tin Man. These additions contribute to a darker and more emotionally complex narrative. The adaptation remains grounded in the ideas introduced by the original book, which reimagined the mythology of Oz with a more mature and introspective touch.

Jon M Chu returns as director, continuing the visual and emotional language established in the first installment. Both films were shot consecutively, ensuring consistency in design, tone, and character development. Chu’s experience with musical storytelling is evident throughout, and his work on this project has further cemented his position as a leading figure in large-scale musical cinema. He is already developing his next major musical adaptation, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, planned for release in 2027.

While reactions to the film have varied, one point of near-universal agreement is the strength of the principal cast. Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda has garnered particular attention. Critics and audiences alike note that the sequel allows her to explore a more layered and emotionally resonant version of the character. Her quieter moments of uncertainty, conflict, and inner turmoil stand out, offering a stronger emotional connection than in the first installment. Observers have also pointed out that her performance could position her as a potential award contender in the coming season.

Cynthia Erivo’s performance as Elphaba continues to impress, with many praising her commanding presence, extraordinary vocal power, and emotional depth. Her interpretation remains a central pillar of the film’s narrative strength, delivering intensity and vulnerability in equal measure. Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, and Michelle Yeoh also contribute strong supporting performances. Goldblum’s distinctive take on the Wizard adds an unexpected levity and eccentricity that contrast the sequel’s more somber tone, offering occasional moments of relief within the film’s dramatic arc.

Despite its strengths, Wicked: For Good has not escaped criticism. One of the most common concerns raised by viewers is the reduced musical impact compared to the first film. Many of the musical’s most famous and beloved songs, including “Popular” and “The Wizard and I,” appeared in Part One. As a result, the sequel presents newer songs that some viewers found less memorable and less emotionally resonant. This shift has influenced the overall perception of the film’s rhythm and energy, especially among fans who hoped for more standout musical moments.

Another area of critique is the film’s tone. Several reviewers described the sequel as more somber and subdued than its predecessor. While Part One was celebrated for its buoyant charm, vivid energy, and cinematic vibrancy, the sequel leans more heavily into emotional conflict, political tension within Oz, and the gradual unraveling of key relationships. Some found this transition compelling and appropriate for the story’s direction, while others felt it dampened the sense of magic that made the first film so appealing.

Pacing has also emerged as a point of contention. Some viewers noted that despite its nearly two-hour runtime, the film contains less narrative movement than expected. The corresponding section of the stage production unfolds more quickly, leading some critics to describe the film adaptation as overly stretched, with moments that feel padded or prolonged. The emotional dynamic between Elphaba and Glinda, which was one of the strongest aspects of the first film, is also viewed by some as less impactful this time, with their friendship and conflicts appearing slightly diluted.

The expectations surrounding this sequel were undeniably high, largely due to the overwhelming success of the first installment. Part One earned more than £750 million worldwide and collected major honors, including multiple awards for production and costume design. It also received top recognition at significant industry ceremonies, cementing its place as a modern musical phenomenon. With such achievements setting the standard, Wicked: For Good faced the challenge of living up to both fan enthusiasm and critical acclaim from the outset.

Even with its mixed reception, the Wicked film series remains a landmark achievement in contemporary musical cinema. Its large-scale production, imaginative design, and commitment to emotional storytelling continue to resonate with audiences around the world. The sequel may not surpass the first film for every viewer, but its strong performances — especially from Erivo and Grande — ensure that it remains an engaging and evocative addition to the growing legacy of this reimagined Oz.