The timeless classic story of Oz expands once more with the visually dazzling “Wicked: For Good.” Our J.P. gives a quick take on his thoughts about the highly anticipated Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo sequel.
Wicked: For Good
Universal Pictures
- Directed by Jon M. Chu
- Screenplay by Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox
- Based on Wicked by Stephen Schwartz, Winnie Holzman
- Wicked by Gregory Maguire
- Produced by Marc Platt, David Stone
- Starring Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum
Studio Synopsis:
Last year’s global cinematic cultural sensation, which became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all time, now reaches its epic, electrifying, emotional conclusion in Wicked: For Good.
Directed once again by award-winning director JON M. CHU and starring the spectacular returning cast, led by Academy Award® nominated superstars CYNTHIA ERIVO and ARIANA GRANDE, the final chapter of the untold story of the witches of Oz begins with Elphaba and Glinda estranged and living with the consequences of their choices.
J.P.’s Quick Take:
L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” was first published in the 1900s and has since captivated new generations across the globe. This classic story led to a series of follow-up novels that further expanded the world and its lore.
It was first adapted into a stage play in 1902, before the invention of film, and was then turned into a silent movie in 1925. From there, the premier of talking films emerged, marked by another film reimagining of “The Wizard of Oz,” starring the larger-than-life Judy Garland in 1939. The first of the modern retellings was made into a Broadway play in 2003, which was reignited in 2023 as a stage play. “Wicked” (2024) is the first of a new generation of films carrying on this children’s parable.
Enter “Wicked for Good,” a sparkling sequel, with pre-teen drama antics, primed for the social media generation. When we last met, Galinda Upland a.k.a. Glinda the Good (Ariana Grande) and Elphaba Thropp a.k.a The Wicked Witch of the West (Cynthia Erivo), their relationship began to fracture, as the pressures of the government of Oz and Madam Morrible’s (Michelle Yeoh) denouncement of Elphaba deepened their rift. Elphaba’s defiance of Mr. Oz’s orders was perceived to be “wicked,” yet this was not the viewpoint Galinda shared, seeing as the two of them were great friends.
The strength of this continuation, directed again by Jon M. Chu, lies in its commitment to authentic storytelling. The enchanting land of Oz faces new turmoil as its inhabitants uncover the true motives of the great and powerful Oz (Jeff Goldblum). Elphaba finds herself at the heart of the uproar once more, cautioning the citizens that their real concern should not be her, but rather the Wizard himself, who poses a greater threat. This sentiment is kept afloat by the citizens of Oz’s growing perception that Elphaba is simply “wicked” and must be captured at all costs.
What will draw viewers to this sequel is the moral dilemma that has been bouncing around between the characters. The story relies heavily on the perception of those in power, mainly that of which otherizes those who don’t fit their mold. You can see the writing on the wall as the plot surges along, as political manipulation takes its course, leading to a shift in Galinda’s ideals, as Elphaba’s rightful rebellion takes shape. Yet, their loyalties are put to the test as Oz continues to lie to the citizens, pitting the adoptive sisters, Galinda and Elphaba, against one another. The conclusion is both touching and revealing of the deeper narrative behind the original “The Wizard of Oz” tale.
“Wicked: For Good” has a fantastic cast. Along with Grande and Erivo, the key cast members include Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar (who becomes the Scarecrow); Yeoh as Madame Morrible, the Wizard’s employee and former Dean of Sorcery; and Goldblum as the Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The Thropp family is represented by Marissa Bode as Nessarose, with Ethan Slater as her servant Boq (the future Tin Man). Supporting players include Glinda’s assistants, Bowen Yang as Pfannee and Bronwyn James as ShenShen. The film also features voice roles: Colman Domingo as Brrr the Cowardly Lion, Sharon D. Clarke as Dulcibear, and Dee Bradley Baker as Chistery, the winged monkey leader.
This fantasy world comes to life through its vibrant and intricately designed set pieces and imaginative costumes. The characters are dynamic, each embodying a set of values that reflect a society grappling with social and political discord. It all feels strikingly relevant.
I have to admit, I wouldn’t have been able to sit through “Wicked: For Good,” as I’m not a major fan of musicals per se, but it’s the fantastic vocal prowess and acting talents of its main characters, particularly Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s on-screen chemistry. I was glad to experience this ongoing saga.
Official Site: Wicked: For Good
