‘Wicked: For Good’ Draws Divided Opinions Amid Stellar Performances

Post by : Mina Rahman

Wicked: For Good, the eagerly awaited sequel to last year's beloved musical adaptation, has hit theaters, whisking audiences back to the enchanting realm of Oz. Debuting on Friday, this film delves deeper into the intertwined fates of Elphaba and Glinda, tracing their transformation into the iconic figures familiar to fans of the expansive Wizard of Oz saga. Following the immense success of the first movie, this sequel has surprisingly elicited mixed reviews. Nevertheless, the standout performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have garnered widespread acclaim, while other elements of the film have faced varying critiques.

This new installment offers a richer exploration of the origins behind several well-known characters, providing new backgrounds for the Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, and Tin Man. These introductions weave a darker, more emotionally nuanced storyline. The adaptation retains its roots in the themes proposed by the original novel, revisiting Oz's mythology with a matured and introspective lens.

Directed once again by Jon M Chu, the film maintains the visual and emotional tone set by its predecessor. Filmed back-to-back with the first installment, efforts were made to ensure consistency in design, tone, and character consistency. Chu's notable skill in musical storytelling shines through, solidifying his status as a front-runner in large-scale musical cinema. He is also in the works for another musical adaptation, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, slated for a 2027 release.

Despite the varied critical reception, the principal cast has generally been praised. Ariana Grande's performance as Glinda has received particular notice, allowing her to delve into a more complex and emotionally rich portrayal. Her quieter moments reflect uncertainty and inner conflict, creating a poignant connection that surpasses her role in the original film. Many observers are considering her for award nominations in the upcoming season.

Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba continues to captivate, showcasing her commanding presence, incredible vocal prowess, and emotional depth. Her performance anchors the narrative, delivering intensity and vulnerability in equal measure. Supporting roles by Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, and Michelle Yeoh add further dimension; Goldblum's quirky take on the Wizard provides an unexpected levity against the film’s heavier themes.

Nevertheless, Wicked: For Good is not without its criticisms. Frequently mentioned is the weaker musical impact when compared to the initial film, with beloved songs like “Popular” and “The Wizard and I” absent from this sequel. Consequently, the newer musical numbers left some viewers feeling they were less memorable, which affected the overall rhythm and vibrancy, particularly among fans looking for unforgettable musical highlights.

Tone has also raised eyebrows, with numerous reviewers noting a more serious and subdued approach compared to the first film. While the original was celebrated for its lively charm and visual dynamism, this sequel leans into deeper emotional turmoil, the political dynamics within Oz, and the fragmentation of key relationships. While some find this shift engaging and appropriate, others argue it diminishes the enchanting magic that characterized the inaugural film.

Another point of contention appears to be pacing; some viewers expressed that the nearly two-hour runtime lacks significant narrative movement. Critics have described the film adaptation as feeling extended rather than tightly woven, leading to moments that might feel drawn out. Additionally, the emotional connection between Elphaba and Glinda, a focal point in the first film, is perceived by some as somewhat diluted this time around, rendering their friendship and conflicts less impactful.

With soaring expectations stemming from its predecessor — which garnered over £750 million globally and numerous awards for production and costume design — Wicked: For Good faces the daunting task of living up to both fan excitement and critical standards.

Despite mixed feedback, the Wicked cinematic series stands as a landmark in modern musical cinema. Its grand production, imaginative storytelling, and commitment to emotional resonance continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Though not universally hailed as superior to the first film, its potent performances, especially from Erivo and Grande, secure its place as a noteworthy addition to the illustrious tale of Oz.