Wicked: For Good (2025) Movie Review

Wicked: For Good (2025) Movie Review: A Heartfelt Flawed Beautiful End

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Coming off the fantastic Wicked, Director Jon M. Chu faces a huge challenge in making the sequel feel more substantial and more fully fleshed out than its stage musical counterpart. For us, the second act of the stage version has always been weaker than the first, and it was interesting to see how the film would improve on that. Unfortunately, Wicked: For Good doesn’t make enough meaningful changes to elevate the material. While it doesn’t match the success of its predecessor, it still stands as a great film in its own right.

Years have passed since Shiz University, and both Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) now find themselves locked in different battles. Elphaba, still living as a fugitive, continues her fight for animal rights and seeks to expose the truth about the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum). Glinda, on the other hand, is slowly rising in popularity but working alongside the Wizard and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) to spread deceit across Oz. When their worlds collide, how will the two face each other's differences?

As expected, Wicked: For Good delivers the same stunning choreography and cinematography that defined the first film. Jon M. Chu continues to shine when the musical roots take center stage. From beloved songs to new additions crafted for Wicked: For Good, the musical numbers are powerful, emotional, and beautifully staged and produced. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande once again impress much like the first film, continuing their unique chemistry and anchoring the film even as the story grows darker and more mature in tone.

Where the film falters mirrors the issues of its stage counterpart. The narrative still struggles under the weight of Act II’s rushed pacing, sudden time jump, tonal shifts, and the sheer number of old and new characters needing their own developments. Even with more screen time, the film doesn’t quite add the substance or control the chaos that this half of the story demands and brings in. Still, Wicked: For Good offers plenty to enjoy especially through its performances and musical brilliance. It may not defy gravity as high as the first film, but it remains a heartfelt and beautifully crafted conclusion to this magical journey.

Rating: 4 reels