Katie Samol | The Chronicle
Movie Review
4.5 Stars
Wicked: For Good, the much anticipated sequel to the record-breaking original film-adaptation, hit theaters November 21. Chronicling the second act of the musical, the plot takes place roughly a year after the events of the first movie. The matured characters face heavier circumstances: Glinda (Ariana Grande) takes on the responsibilities of a public figure while Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) fights for Ozian’s rights as she is hunted down by Oz’s government.
The cinematic moments of the film exceeded many fans’ expectations. Cynthia Erivo’s performance of “No Good Deed” was of epic scale, and the central duo’s rendition of “For Good” left audiences–including myself–misty eyed and nostalgic. While some actions seemed abrupt since the character’s internal struggles and development was not displayed on screen, newly added songs and emotions helped bridge this gap.
Two songs were added to the adaptation that were written by Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of the original musical, and as someone who is not well versed in the musical, the songs fit right in. One new number of Glinda’s, “The Girl in the Bubble” adds depth to her character in the second half of the saga, providing necessary background to her decision to side with Elphaba towards the end.
Erivo and Grande’s chemistry shone in the film, doing justice to the musical’s original timeless characters while adding a new layer to their friendship. Despite its flaws, the sequel effectively concluded the monumental saga. From novel to musical to movie, the Wicked story has finally come to an end, but the story’s messages and music will stick with fans for years to come.
