SPOILER WARNING: This review contains some spoilers for the film; read at your own risk.
Ever since the release of the magical, musical phenomenon, Wicked, audiences from across the globe have been eagerly waiting for the release of its tie-in sequel, Wicked: For Good! Fans once again get to dive deeper into the wonderful world of Oz through the eyes of the fantastical world’s most spellbinding characters, Elpheba (the Wicked Witch) and Glinda (the Good Witch), and watch as they finally reach the final act of their journey and uncover the corruption and forced prejudice their manipulative Wizard has wrought on the seemingly perfect land of Oz.
After the events of the first film, the iconic pink-and-green duo have been forced on different sides of an unjust political scandal caused by the power-hungry fraud, Oz, who has secretly been caging animals across the land. Oz has stripped them of their rights and has caused them to lose their ability to speak under severe oppression. In the Wizard’s haste of deceit and fear of being found out, he frames Elpheba for using unspeakable dark magic for wicked purposes. He convinces the people of Oz that she is the enemy, while he uses Glinda as a symbol of peace and justice. Now, their friendship is being tested as they’re pushed to embrace their newfound identities and struggle to maintain their promised bond.
Inherently, this film seems to indulge in a variety of frantic ups and downs, and it’s clear it holds a smaller candle to its predecessor as it tries to incorporate a surplus of exciting, thematic elements. In its aim to uphold the title of an “endgame”, it fails to replicate the thoroughness and practicality that the first film had adapted so well. However, aside from its messy plot and quick pacing, the film still has some impressive qualities. To start, the acting in this film is uite impressive, with both Cynthia Erivo and Arianna Grande sending audiences into a spiral as Oz’s most intriguing and undoubtedly moving characters. The opposites masterfully nail their chemistry, creating an undeniably fun atmosphere with every moment they share on screen. Additionally, Jonathan Bailey gives an outstanding performance as the Wizard’s spiteful soldier, and his romantic chemistry with Elpheba feels genuine and passionate. However, aside from the impressive performances from the cast, he film still lacks quite a few important aspects that would have put it on par with the original.
A recent survey of the students of Herrin High School helps to show the conflicting opinions on Hollywood’s biggest musical spectacle. Only 28% of students polled claimed they enjoyed it, 19.5% of students claimed it was decent, and 52.5% of students claimed they didn’t like it at all. In comparison, the first film averages around 33.9% of students claiming they liked it, 21.2% of students claiming it was decent, and only 44.9% of students claiming they disliked it, showcasing its more positive reception than its second installment.
However, despite the film’s ups and downs in its theatrical aspects, it should still be recognized as a magnificent display of talent and creativity, especially amongst the hundreds of skilled actors, dancers, and designers who clearly enjoyed every minute of their time on set.
