By: Srishti Sawant

Simply put, Wicked: For Good is great. The sequel to the highest-grossing movie based on a Broadway musical, “Wicked”, brings a darker, more emotional tone to the world of Oz that contrasts sharply with the bright, energetic atmosphere of Part One. Where the first film dazzled with big ensemble numbers and the fun energy of Shiz University, this sequel narrowed its focus to the grave consequences of the characters’ choices. Director Jon M. Chu aimed for a more mature narrative that explored the themes of manipulation, loss, and political tension found in the 1995 novel “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West” by Gregory Maguire, while simultaneously paying homage to the hit Broadway musical.

As Gabriella Apemekou [10] put it,

“’Wicked: For Good’ gives a whole new perspective. Part two is filled with a more energetic and fun musical plot than the first movie.”

The new soundtrack is one of the strongest indicators of this tonal shift. Instead of the upbeat showstoppers of the first movie—like “Popular” and “Dancing Through Life”—For Good leans heavily into ballads and character-driven solos. Songs such as “As Long as You’re Mine,” “No Good Deed,” and the iconic “For Good” capture the characters’ emotional isolation and the growing divide between Glinda and Elphaba. This shift made the story feel more intimate and grounded. Despite the darker themes, the music remains powerful, memorable, and essential to the film’s emotional weight.

Watching the film evokes a mix of suspense, anticipation, and even anxiety as the stakes rise. Part Two becomes more action-oriented as it dives deep into the unraveling friendship between the two leads and the political forces tearing Oz apart. The CGI elevates the world-building further (e.g., the Wizard’s Head, the Flying Monkeys, etc.), to make Oz feel more immersive than ever (Image 1). The film also cleverly begins by connecting its storyline to The Wizard of Oz through classic and contemporary storytelling in ways fans will appreciate (Image 1).

Overall, Wicked: For Good succeeds in its mission to deepen character arcs and explore the repercussions of choices made in the first film. It’s more serious, more emotional, and more complex, but still filled with the charm and warmth that fans love. If you haven’t seen it yet, now is the perfect time—grab a friend, get your tickets, and let yourself be swept back into Oz. You won’t regret it.