Published December 8, 2025
BY CHOICE MUIVAH
Far from Kansas, “Wicked: For Good,” directed by Jon M. Chu, captivates audiences as they fall in love with Glinda (Ariana Grande), the Good Witch, revealing unexpected depth in a character often dismissed as simple.
Adapted from Gregory Maguire’s novel “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West,” a reimagining and prequel to “The Wizard of Oz,” the musical became a Broadway hit before its 2024 film adaptation. “Wicked: For Good” continues its story, returning audiences to the fantasy world of Oz, flying monkeys and magic shoes.
Where the first film centered on Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and her origin story into becoming the Wicked Witch of the West, the second film follows Glinda’s journey from a sheltered socialite to a leader forced to confront the wicked truth that hides beneath Oz’s mask.
Introduced as a spoiled girl eager to become a sorcerer despite lacking magic, Glinda gradually takes steps beyond her bubble. She begins to see Oz in a new light, maturing into someone fit to lead while delivering a heartbreaking yet satisfying conclusion.
While Grande has faced controversy since announcing her role as Glinda, due to her fame as a singer, she has certainly silenced any doubts of her capability as an actor. Grande delivers each scene meaningfully and disappears into the role while keeping her performance powerful and precise.
The film’s overall set and costumes were stunning, though Elphaba’s tattered cardigan was certainly a choice. The cast’s attire definitely matches the eccentric land of Oz, with vibrant colors and patterns extending to even background characters—a much-appreciated detail.
Unlike Glinda, Nessarose Thropp (Marissa Bode), the Witch of the East and Elphaba’s sister, becomes frustratingly one-note. Her resentment consumes her, making her more of an obstacle than a person.
Although Grande and Erivo are talented vocalists, the music side of the movie-musical is overall underwhelming. None of the tracks pop out the same as in the first film, with the most memorable songs being callbacks to the first, but overall failing to recapture their spark.
The film uses metaphors to touch on weighty topics such as propaganda and racism, making it more than just a children’s tale. Combined with its emotionally driven arcs, they give the film surprising resonance.
If you’re looking for something that expands on an original without feeling recycled and offers bittersweet yet beautiful character development, this movie might just be up your yellow brick road.
8/10
