As a fan of the “Wicked” musical, I was elated to hear that the story of Elphaba, the Wicked Witch, and Glinda, the Good Witch, was coming to life in a movie version.  

Part one of the famed Broadway musical’s film adaptation was released in 2024 and showcased Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Other notable members of the cast include Jonathan Bailey as Prince Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Marissa Bode as Nessarose and Ethan Slater as Boq. The first movie wholeheartedly captured the story of the musical’s first act, with stunning backgrounds, enthusiastic dance numbers and jaw-dropping vocals from the incredibly talented cast.  

With such a high opinion of the first movie, I was incredibly excited to see the sequel, “Wicked: For Good.” For me, nothing can top Erivo’s performance of “Defying Gravity” in the first film. As such an integral part of the musical, I had high expectations for “Defying Gravity,” and they were not let down. That said, if you absolutely loved the musical numbers and vocals of part one, you may be missing some here. 

In my opinion, the best music happens in part one. This has nothing to do with how the movie was made but how the original musical lays out. However, I did think the cast once again delivered beautiful vocals in duets. My favorite songs were “For Good” and “As Long as You’re Mine.” These duets showcased the heartwarming friendship of Elphaba and Glinda as well as the affection held between Elphaba and Fiyero. “For Good” showcased the entire theme of the sequel by displaying the heroics of Elphaba who does in fact work “for good,” despite her being called the Wicked Witch. 

Aside from the musicality of the film, I think “Wicked: For Good” beautifully wrapped up the story of the Wicked Witch from her own perspective. While “The Wizard of Oz” frames Elphaba as nothing short of an evil witch, “Wicked” reframes her story as a misunderstood woman.  

Without revealing too many details, I can say the movie is true to the musical and does its job painting the Wicked Witch in a new light. The film picks up a year after the plot of the first film, with Elphaba hiding from the Wizard and his flying monkeys. As seen in the trailer, Glinda remains in the Wizard’s good graces, living in the Emerald City with plans to marry Fiyero. Meanwhile, Nessarose acts as governor of Munchkinland, spending her time with an unhappy Boq, who wants nothing more than to leave. The political state of the film is restless, just like the ending of the first film, as animals are facing increased discrimination and losing their voices. Elphaba intends to fight for them but struggles with the mark placed on her back as the evil villain. 

Simultaneous to the beloved characters from “Wicked,” the “The Wizard of Oz” coincides with this sequel as Dorothy arrives on the scene. She makes her journey with the classic trio of characters — lion, scarecrow and tin man — intent on meeting the Wizard. 

This sequel features some truly deep, emotional moments as well as exciting action scenes. My only reservation is the ending left me wanting more. Even though I know the story is over, I cannot help but want to know what else happens, especially concerning the friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. 

Overall, “Wicked: For Good” was successful in representing the second act of the musical. The talented cast delivered on all fronts and left me wanting something even further. I highly recommend everyone sees “Wicked: For Good,” (and, of course, the first part if you haven’t already) when we once again have some free time this winter break.