Musical enthusiasts now have their very own superhero saga to enjoy.
Upon reviewing the first installment of Wicked, I found myself questioning the decision to divide the Broadway musical into two cinematic parts. However, after experiencing Wicked: For Good, the reasoning has become clear. While this standalone film may not quite reach the heights of its predecessor, it serves as a triumphant conclusion to the tale of a virtuous witch and her wicked counterpart. For fans of movie musicals, myself included, the need for a multi-part epic akin to the Lord of the Rings trilogy and other serialized blockbusters has been fulfilled. Wicked stands as a remarkable series, embodying fantasy and magic, and confidently holds its own alongside other franchises centered on superheroes and legendary heroes. It is evident now; we are fortunate to have this story.
The sequel resumes with Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), now a fugitive from the notorious flying monkeys of Oz. Initially leading the manhunt is Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey), who unexpectedly gets engaged to Glinda (Ariana Grande). This twist takes him by surprise, as he harbors true feelings for Elphaba. Choosing love over duty, he joins Elphaba in her escape, while Glinda finds her popularity exploited by the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) to bolster their regime.
This film delves deep into the theme of misguided intentions. The lion cub that Elphaba and Fiyero saved in the first film has grown into the Cowardly Lion (voiced by Colman Domingo), who resents his rescuers for separating him from his parents. Elphaba’s magic spell goes awry, leading to the creation of the flying monkeys, and a similar mishap occurs when she seeks to protect Fiyero from Oz’s soldiers.
A particularly unsettling subplot revolves around Elphaba’s sister, Nessarose (Marissa Bode), and the Munchkin Boq (Ethan Slater). This narrative arc adds depth to characters who were somewhat overlooked in the first film. Nessarose attempts to win Boq’s affection by enslaving him and ultimately casts a flawed love spell, resulting in disastrous consequences for both. The youthful cast consistently conveys a sense of bewilderment at how events spiraled out of control, and the fleeting flashbacks to the happier times depicted in the first film evoke a poignant sense of loss.
Structurally, the sequel grapples with a challenge: the standout musical numbers were mostly featured in the first film. The visuals, while still captivating, are less striking in comparison; however, director Jon M. Chu masterfully incorporates inventive transitions through mirrored surfaces during Glinda’s song “The Girl in the Bubble,” one of two newly pe
ed songs by songwriter Stephen Schwartz. The Wizard’s number “Wonderful” cleverly manipulates Elphaba’s loyalties, but the true musical highlight emerges with the climactic duet “For Good,” where the heroines reflect on how their complex friendship has shaped them.
This second film serves as a platform for Grande, much like the first film showcased Erivo. While For Good doesn’t highlight her vocal prowess to the same extent (though she still effortlessly hits those high notes), it emphasizes her ability to navigate a challenging role. The camera captures her expressions as Glinda betrays her best friend in a deeply unsettling ma
er, revealing the depths to which she has plummeted. Redeeming a character after such actions is no small feat, yet Grande’s performance shines as Glinda seizes control of Oz from her corrupt mentors, asserting her presence over her taller co-stars.
The character who began as someone feigning goodness for popularity ultimately resolves to leverage that popularity for altruistic purposes. Glinda’s transformation into a genuinely good person is catalyzed by her encounter with Elphaba and her exposure to the injustices Elphaba faces. The way both films poignantly illustrate Glinda’s journey toward moral integrity is profoundly moving. Wicked didn’t need to be this thoughtful to attract large audiences at the box office, but its depth adds an admirable layer worth celebrating, especially around the Thanksgiving table.
Wicked: For Good
Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Directed by Jon M. Chu. Written by Wi
ie Holzman and Dana Fox, based on Holzman’s musical libretto and Gregory Maguire’s novel. Rated PG.
