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I recently watched the Wicked 2 movie, and this is my in-depth Wicked for Good review. There has been quite a buzz about this second installment, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. As someone who has been following the journey of Oz’s witches, I approached this film with high expectations. Below, I will share my personal insights on the performances, visuals, pacing, and more.
Reflecting on the Wicked 2’s Direction
From the start, I noticed the film’s darker tone compared to the first “Wicked” movie. In the opening scene, Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) disrupts the forced labor of animals. This sets the stage for the Wicked 2 movie to explore Oz’s political issues. Much of the marketing hinted at a more emotional narrative, and I found that to be true. NPR and other reviews point out that the sequel dives into themes of oppression and leadership.
Wicked 2 movie story had a strong beginning, but it needed more focus. At 2 hours and 45 minutes, some scenes and extra songs slowed things down. Critics mentioned that the plot felt stretched to split “Wicked” into two parts. Fans appreciated deeper insights into their favorite characters. Still, I found that some motivations and character arcs were rushed or not clear, particularly in the second act.
Performances that Stood Out
One aspect that consistently impressed was the quality of the performances. Cast of Wicked for Good Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is still incredibly powerful. She infused the role with depth, and her voice stood out in songs like “No Good Deed.” Reviewers have noted that this song is one of the most emotionally gripping numbers. Her emotive range drives the film, and I admire the subtle layers she added to Elphaba’s moral dilemmas.
Ariana Grande really impressed me as Glinda. Critics felt she truly came alive in this role, and I couldn’t agree more. Her comedic timing has sharpened, and her voice soared in both solos and duets with Erivo. “For Good” was a standout track, providing a touching contrast to the heavier parts. I found it interesting how Grande captured Glinda’s moral conflict. She juggled her public image with the responsibilities that come with power.
Visual design and effects
Wicked 2 movie stands out visually. Nathan Crowley’s production design and Paul Tazewell’s costumes create a lively Oz. The color palette is rich and detailed, bringing each set to life. Although the film uses a lot of CGI, these effects mostly enhance the fantastical feel. Still, some scenes are a bit too dark. Critics on IGN pointed out that this made it hard to see important facial expressions.
The overall look evokes the grandeur of the stage show while adding a filmic style. I liked how the production design showcased the conflict between the Wizard’s harsh rule and Elphaba’s fight for freedom. Expansive landscapes, towering city views, and unique costumes reveal the political divide in Oz.
Wicked For Good Movie Script, Pacing, and New Songs
Wicked For Good movie has a lot to offer, but the pacing can feel off. Some scenes shift too quickly, and the second half feels slow. New songs like “No Place Like Home” and “The Girl in the Bubble” have been criticized by many reviewers, including NPR, for not adding much to the story. I enjoyed them while watching, but I agree they make the film longer than it needs to be.
Another concern is the script’s lighter touch on the novel’s political themes. It appears to avoid Gregory Maguire’s critiques of power and identity. The screenplay chooses a simpler story. It presents characters as either good or misunderstood. This makes it easier for many to enjoy, but it loses the complexity that devoted fans of “Wicked” may want.
Additional marketing twist
I found something interesting while reading about the Wicked Part 2: the themed merchandise. The “Wicked For Good” music box popcorn bucket really caught my eye. Its fun design includes iconic “Wicked” symbols and a working music box. It seems like a cool collectible. However, it might be more of a fan item than a practical snack holder. The bucket feels a bit fragile, and the music can play at random times, which might be annoying.
Final thoughts
I enjoyed the Wicked 2 movie for its beautiful visuals, strong acting, and memorable songs like “No Good Deed.” I also see the points about pacing and the long runtime. The political messages seem quieter than I expected, and the new musical numbers can disrupt the flow. Still, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande shine together, adding both tension and warmth to Elphaba and Glinda’s story.
If you enjoy the world of Oz and want to see its iconic witches explore friendship, rivalry, and personal agency, there’s a lot to love here. But if you are looking for a deeper look at the novel’s themes, you might feel a bit let down. As a longtime fan of musical theater, I think this is my best Wicked For Good review. Despite its flaws, the show stays true to its source material, and that makes the journey worth it for me.