Wicked: For Good

Review: Wicked: For Good (2025)

Hey everyone! As someone who’s been waiting with bated breath since the first part of Wicked hit screens, I finally got to see Wicked: For Good, and I’m so excited to share my thoughts. This is the second half of the grand cinematic adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, and it promises to wrap up Elphaba and Glinda’s epic journey. Did it deliver? Let’s dive in!

Story Overview

Wicked: For Good picks up right where the first film left us – with Elphaba famously "defying gravity" and solidifying her identity as the supposed "Wicked Witch of the West." The movie quickly thrusts us into a darker, more intense Oz, where the Wizard’s propaganda machine is in full swing, turning the public against Elphaba. We follow her as she navigates this new, isolated existence, grappling with the consequences of her choices and desperately trying to do good in a world determined to paint her as evil.

Her complex friendship with Glinda is still very much at the heart of the story. Glinda, now positioned as the popular, "Good Witch," finds herself caught between her loyalty to Elphaba and her desire to maintain her privileged status. The narrative weaves together themes of perception versus reality, standing up for what’s right even when it’s unpopular, and the enduring power of friendship. Expect to see the search for Nessarose, the fate of Fiyero, and the ultimate showdown with the Wizard, leading to that poignant, bittersweet conclusion we all know and love from the stage show.

Main Characters & Performances

Let's talk about the stars! Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba truly shines in this second chapter. Her Elphaba is raw, vulnerable, and fiercely determined. Her vocal performances, especially in songs like "No Good Deed," are absolutely show-stopping, filled with a palpable rage and heartbreak that sent chills down my spine. You feel every ounce of Elphaba's pain and resolve. She embodies the character’s struggle beautifully, making you root for her even as the world turns against her.

Ariana Grande as Glinda also delivers a remarkable performance. We see Glinda mature significantly here, shedding some of her earlier frivolousness for a deep internal conflict. Grande really nails Glinda’s journey from self-absorbed socialite to a woman wrestling with her conscience and her love for her friend. Her rendition of "For Good" with Erivo is incredibly moving, showcasing a newfound depth in her voice and acting. The chemistry between Erivo and Grande is the undeniable backbone of the film, and it really comes alive in this final act.

Among the supporting cast, Jonathan Bailey's Fiyero truly comes into his own as a symbol of loyalty and love, and Michelle Yeoh's Madame Morrible is wonderfully menacing, amplifying the Wizard's manipulative regime.

What Works Well

First off, the music! The iconic songs from the second act of the musical are brought to life with such power and passion. "No Good Deed" is an absolute powerhouse moment for Erivo, and the emotional weight of "For Good" is perfectly captured. The orchestrations feel grand and cinematic, giving these beloved tunes a fresh, expansive feel.

Visually, Wicked: For Good is a feast for the eyes. The production design takes a slightly darker turn, reflecting the story's more serious themes, yet it still maintains the magical whimsy of Oz. The visual effects are generally impressive, especially during Elphaba’s more magical moments, creating a sense of epic scale.

But the real heart of the film is the emotional resonance. The journey of Elphaba and Glinda's friendship, with all its complexities, betrayals, and ultimate understanding, is handled with such care. It truly drives the narrative and gives the film its enduring power. It’s a story about accepting differences, challenging authority, and finding your own definition of good, and the movie delivers on those themes beautifully.

What Could Be Improved

While largely fantastic, there were a couple of moments where the pacing felt a tad rushed, especially considering how much story needed to be packed in. Some of the more intricate plot points felt like they flew by a little quickly, and I occasionally wished for a bit more breathing room to let the audience fully absorb the gravity of certain decisions.

Also, while the CGI is mostly stunning, there were one or two instances where it felt a little less polished than the rest, pulling me out of the immersive world just for a fleeting moment. It's a small nitpick in an otherwise visually spectacular film. Finally, some of the supporting characters, though well-acted, don't get as much screentime for their own arcs as fans of the musical might hope, which is understandable given the focus on Elphaba and Glinda, but still a little noticeable.

Overall Entertainment Value

Wicked: For Good is undoubtedly a massive cinematic experience. It’s grand, it’s emotional, and it’s thoroughly entertaining. If you loved the first part, this conclusion will sweep you off your feet. Even if you're not a die-hard Wicked fan, it stands as a captivating fantasy musical with a compelling story about identity and friendship.

The film successfully balances its darker themes with moments of hope and beauty, making it a powerful watch for audiences of all ages (though younger viewers might find some of the darker plot points a bit intense). It’s the kind of movie that leaves you humming the songs and thinking about its messages long after you've left the cinema. It’s a true spectacle, and a journey well worth taking.

Final Verdict

Wicked: For Good is a truly satisfying conclusion to a highly anticipated two-part movie event. It’s a powerful, visually stunning, and emotionally rich film that does justice to its source material. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande deliver phenomenal performances, anchoring the story with their incredible talent and chemistry. While a minor tweak in pacing here or there might have made it absolutely perfect, it’s still a triumphant musical adaptation that speaks volumes about friendship, perception, and the courage to defy. If you’re looking for a film that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer, this is definitely one to catch. Highly recommended!