WARNING: Spoilers for Wicked Part One and Part Two
The much-anticipated movie Wicked: For Good was finally released in theaters on November 21st, 2025. Since fans waited over two decades for a film adaptation of the musical, and a year since the release of Wicked part one, the sequel had high expectations to live up to. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film resumes from part one’s emotional ending, which left audiences on the edge of their seats.
For those who need a refresher, Wicked follows the story of Elphaba, a social outcast with green skin and mystifying powers, and Glinda, the popular blonde queen bee, as they meet at Shiz University, in the Land of Oz. Despite their clashing personalities, the two form an unlikely friendship. Their bond is tested as the pair discovers the corruption and propaganda within the Land of Oz. Ultimately, the two are forced to choose between following their lifelong dreams and standing up for what is right. The tension culminates in the finale, with Elphaba forced into hiding, branded a threat to the people of Oz, and Glinda remaining in the Emerald City. This dramatic cliffhanger sets the stage for the events of Wicked: For Good.
Wicked: For Good picks up some time after the first film’s climax, opening with the use of animal labor in the construction of the iconic yellow brick road, which can be seen in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. Elphaba then swoops in on her broom, freeing the animals. In the Emerald City, however, her progressive actions are painted to be violent, and full of malevolent intent. Meanwhile, Glinda resides at the palace in the Emerald City and has become a symbol of good and hope for the people of Oz. As she prepares to marry Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey), Glinda attempts to mediate the feud between Elphaba and The Wizard, but ultimately fails, driving Elphaba and Glinda further apart. The film then takes on a darker tone, delving deeper into the complex themes of politics and government in the Land of Oz, and the bonds between various characters. The story portrays themes of friendship, identity, morality, and the meaning of “goodness.” While the stakes have significantly increased, it never loses the emotional aspect that is at the heart of the story. Many were struck by the film’s open discussions of such complex tropes.
Stephen Schwartz and John Powell delivered a soundtrack of 11 songs, including all of the beloved tunes from Act Two of the stage musical, in addition to two new songs written for the film, “No Place Like Home” and “The Girl in the Bubble.” The film is nothing short of visually stunning. Featuring sweeping shots of the Emerald City, intricate costume design, and aesthetically pleasing color palettes, Wicked: For Good is simply beautiful to watch.
The film received mixed reviews from critics, currently holding a 66% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Some describe it as magical, full of moving performances and magical moments; many others argue that the story was overall less compelling and lacking in substance when compared to the first movie. Some argued that significant plot points, such as the story of Nessa Rose (Marissa Bode), were glossed over, and that a more cohesive story could have been achieved by diving deeper into them. While widely regarded as inferior to the first film, Wicked: For Good effectively translates the heartfelt story of Act Two of the Broadway hit, offering captivating visuals, an amazing soundtrack, and a satisfying conclusion. For longtime fans of Oz, or people in search of an immersive world, it’s definitely a finale worth watching.
