Overview: Akin to the first, but not quite as magical
The much-anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, lands in theaters to broadly positive notices from critics who largely celebrate the cast and songs while noting that its spellbinding power dims slightly in comparison with the original film. Fans of the franchise will recognize the same core tension between Elphaba and Glinda, now explored with new layers, but some reviewers argue that the sequel doesn’t harness the same transformative energy that made the first movie such a cultural moment.
Performances that command attention
Cynthia Erivo returns as Elphaba and Ariana Grande steps into the role of Glinda with a mix of charm, mischief, and vocal prowess. Critics highlight Erivo’s commanding stage presence and Grande’s lighter, more glittering star turn, with standout musical moments that feel both nostalgic and fresh. While the chemistry between the leads remains engaging, several reviews suggest the sequel relies slightly more on fan service and spectacle than on a tightly woven dramatic through-line.
Voice, vulnerability, and versatility
Erivo’s performance carries the emotional heft, delivering Elphaba’s spurts of rage, resilience, and tenderness with a maturity that elevates the film beyond a straightforward sequel. Grande’s Glinda adds a buoyant, sometimes wry counterpoint that keeps the tone buoyant even during heavier moments. Critics say the duo’s vocal work is a major strength, with harmonies and solos that showcase their range and musical credibility.
Musical numbers and pacing
The movie’s songs land with several memorable setpieces, but some reviewers feel the pacing fluctuates. The narrative pace accelerates during key confrontations and then lingers in certain sequences, potentially dampening the sense of discovery that made the original film feel revelatory. Still, the production numbers are described as lush, with inventive staging and cinematic flourishes that amplify the musical storytelling without overshadowing character development.
Direction, visuals, and world-building
Directed with a confident eye for scale, Wicked: For Good crafts a more expansive look at Shiz, the Emerald City, and the moral gray areas of its power dynamics. Critics applaud the production design, color palette, and lighting choices that sustain the musical’s fantasy aura while grounding it in relatable emotional stakes. Some reviews note that the film’s heightened visual style, while impressive, occasionally draws attention away from the intimate character work that defined the first installment.
Faithful to the spirit, yet differently tuned
As a sequel, Wicked: For Good leans into practical consequences of the world’s magic and the ramifications of long-standing rivalries. It stays true to the ethical questions that fans love to debate while expanding the cast of supporting characters who offer new perspectives on power, responsibility, and identity. Critics generally praise the ambition and the way the film honors the original while inviting viewers to reexamine what “for good” means in a world still rife with moral ambiguity.
Audience reception and what it means for the franchise
Most critics agree that Wicked: For Good will satisfy many fans who want more of what they loved—strong performances, intricate harmonies, and a grand sense of spectacle—while acknowledging that the sequel doesn’t quite replicate the enchantment of its predecessor. The consensus is that the film is a worthy follow-up, offering emotional ribbon and musical momentum, even if the spell only feels partially cast this time around.
Bottom line
Wicked: For Good delivers a dependable balance of heart and glitter, anchored by standout performances from Erivo and Grande. It may not recapture every facet of the original’s magic, but the film still positions the Wicked universe for continued popularity and conversation among audiences and critics alike.
