Wicked For Good: Film Review by Molly Sullivan
“Wicked For Good” is the much-anticipated conclusion to the “Wicked” film series, directed by John Chu. This spectacular finale stars Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. Picking up from where the last installment left off, the story continues to follow Elphaba, portrayed brilliantly by Cynthia Erivo, as she battles against the Wizard of Oz (played by Jeff Goldblum) and his oppressive treatment of talking animals.
Ariana Grande delivers a captivating performance as Glinda, who grapples with her lack of magical abilities compared to Elphaba, yet discovers the power of being truly good. Michelle Yeoh shines as Madame Morrible, who perpetuates propaganda against Elphaba, painting her as the Wicked Witch of the West.
The film explores Glinda’s internal struggle to find her place in Oz, complemented by a charming moment where she receives a bubble transport with a playful push-button feature. Meanwhile, Jonathan Bailey skillfully portrays Fiyero, who finds himself caught between loyalty to the animals of Oz and his love for Elphaba, despite his engagement to Glinda.
The narrative takes a darker turn as Elphaba’s sister, Nesarose, played by Marissa Bode, becomes embittered and takes her frustrations out on Munchkinland, earning her the title of the Wicked Witch of the East. The portrayal of the Wizard by Jeff Goldblum, however, feels slightly lacking, especially during the pivotal revelation of his paternity to Elphaba.
Although the film is lengthier than its predecessor and features fewer humorous side notes, it delves deeply into the complexities of Elphaba’s and Glinda’s friendship and Madame Morrible’sinfluence over both Glinda and the Wizard.
Two new songs, “There’s No Place Like Home” by Elphaba and “The Girl in The Bubble” by Glinda, are introduced. While beautifully performed, they do little to advance the plot and their absence might not be missed.
A unique sequence shows the animals’ escape through a tunnel beneath the yellow brick road, hinting at their sanctuary in a netherworld. The origins of iconic characters like The Tin Man, The Cowardly Lion, and The Scarecrow are cleverly woven into the storyline, highlighting Elphaba’s unintended impact.
Dorothy makes a brief appearance to explain Elphaba’s fate, but the crux of the film remains the profound yet complicated camaraderie between Elphaba and Glinda.
The film’s ultimate message resonates: humans are rarely just wicked or good but reside in a spectrum of gray. It’s about the people who stand for noble principles, having a profound impact on our lives, and showcasing how the greatest power is spreading goodness and kindness.
For fans of the “Wicked” saga, this finale is a satisfying closure, and even those new to the narrative will find the film thoroughly enjoyable.
