Cover ‘Wicked: For Good’ delivers emotional depth, moral complexity and show-stopping musical numbers that make it essential viewing for both Broadway fans and newcomers (Photo: IMDB)
‘Wicked: For Good’ delivers emotional depth, moral complexity and show-stopping musical numbers that make it essential viewing for both Broadway fans and newcomers (Photo: IMDB)
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Without giving you any spoilers, let’s just say that Jon M Chu’s ‘Wicked: For Good’ proves sequels can exceed the original with darker themes and powerhouse performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande
Jon M Chu’s Wicked: For Good has finally arrived in theatres, and the highly anticipated sequel lives up to the hype. After the first film received 10 Oscar nominations and earned 4 Grammy nominations, the pressure was on for this conclusion to deliver. Thankfully, it does, and then some.
The first film introduced us to the unlikely friendship between Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo)and Glinda (Ariana Grande), soundtracked by bubbly, joyful tracks like Popular and The Wizard and I. It captured the sense of childlike wonder in their youth. Now, Wicked: For Good takes us to darker, more complex territory—and the payoff is wickedly good.
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The maturity of the story
Above Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey in a still from the film (Photo: IMDB)
Ariana Grande and Jonathan Bailey in a still from the film (Photo: IMDB)
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What we loved most about Wicked: For Good is how it fearlessly examines the consequences of power. The film takes a closer look at the role of the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) in the Emerald City, and watching Glinda’s transformation from schoolgirl to “Glinda the Good” is both captivating and heartbreaking. She achieves the popularity she always dreamed of, but at what cost? The moral complexity of her character—maintaining her image, turning a blind eye to injustice, but ultimately standing up for good—adds layers that make this sequel feel more sophisticated than its predecessor.
Meanwhile, Elphaba’s journey into rebellion feels earned and powerful. The film also shows the bond between Elphaba and Glinda only growing stronger against all odds, but at the same time, the film doesn’t shy away from showing the pain of their fractured relationship.
Standout performances
Above Jonathan Bailey oozes Anthony Bridgerton-level charm as Fiyero in ‘Wicked: For Good’
Jonathan Bailey oozes Anthony Bridgerton-level charm as Fiyero in ‘Wicked: For Good’
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Jonathan Bailey and Cynthia Erivo’s performance of As Long as You’re Mine is an absolute highlight—a heart-wrenching ballad that showcases both actors’ incredible range. The romantic tension between Fiyero and Elphaba, set against Glinda and Fiyero’s impending wedding, creates genuinely moving drama.
Watching Elphaba lean into the role of the Wicked Witch of the West—not by choice, but because it’s thrust upon her by public perception—is a master class in how a villain origin story should be told. Erivo brings remarkable vulnerability and strength to every scene, making the audience root for her wholeheartedly.
The new songs are worth the wait
Above Ariana Grande in a still from the song ‘The Girl in the Bubble’ (Photo: Instagram / @wickedmovie)
Ariana Grande in a still from the song ‘The Girl in the Bubble’ (Photo: Instagram / @wickedmovie)
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Stephen Schwartz’s two new songs, written specifically for the film, are spectacular additions. No Place Like Home performed by Erivo and The Girl in the Bubble by Grande explore themes of isolation and identity in ways that feel both fresh and essential to the characters’ journeys, and they deepen our understanding of both women.
The returning cast shines
Above Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Ethan Slater as Boq, and Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp reprise their roles and bring added depth to the plot (Photo: Instagram / @wickedmovie)
Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Ethan Slater as Boq, and Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp reprise their roles and bring added depth to the plot (Photo: Instagram / @wickedmovie)
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Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Ethan Slater as Boq, and Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp all return with compelling performances. Colman Domingo’s addition as the Cowardly Lion is a welcome surprise, bringing pathos to his scenes.
As for Dorothy Gale, the way Chu has depicted this iconic character through hints and clues respects both the Wicked story and the legacy of Judy Garland’s performance in the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz.
Final verdict
Above At its core, it’s a story about friendship and the courage to stand up for your beliefs (Photo: Instagram / @wickedmovie)
At its core, it’s a story about friendship and the courage to stand up for your beliefs (Photo: Instagram / @wickedmovie)
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Wicked: For Good is more than just a satisfying conclusion—it’s a film that elevates the entire story. It’s darker, more nuanced and more emotionally resonant than the first instalment. The film proves that this wasn’t just a story about two witches: it’s about friendship, identity and the courage to stand up for what’s right, even when the world calls you wicked for it.
Gracie Brown is a regular contributor at Tatler Asia, focusing on fashion, style, travel and dining content.
