Minor spoilers ahead!
The highly anticipated sequel to the 2024 blockbuster Wicked has finally hit our screens and it is safe to say, I was not disappointed. Jon M. Chu’s, Wicked: For Good broke box office records with a $225 million opening weekend, becoming the highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation of all-time. But beyond these record-breaking numbers and the outstanding performances, what made the experience truly unforgettable was watching it with the girls I’ve grown up with throughout my university years. Singing along, laughing, and most of all, crying together, made me realise just how much I value these friendships.
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande captured the highs, lows and everything in-between of female friendship so perfectly. This sequel was significantly darker and more emotional than the first, with a production that was nothing short of spectacular. Perhaps the most unforgettable moment of the film comes towards the end, when Cynthia and Ariana perform For Good. Their effortless chemistry, paired with their soaring vocals, make the scene, undeniably, the highlight of the film. One shot that absolutely wrecked me shows the two of them on either side of a door, both utterly heartbroken, and judging by the quiet sniffles around me, I wasn’t the only one feeling it. By the end I was left a complete emotional wreck, swept up by the performances, the story, and the sheer beauty of the film.
Of course, no review of Wicked: For Good would be complete without mentioning the newly crowned Sexiest Man Alive, Jonathan Bailey. His portrayal of Fiyero had the entire cinema melting, especially during his swoon-worthy rendition of As Long As You’re Mine, which left every girl around me audibly gasping (myself included). His charm seemed to work not only on Elphaba and Glinda, but had the entire audience completely under his spell. I honestly can’t imagine a better casting for Fiyero, between his flawless vocals and dazzling performance, he embodied the role perfectly. Another honourable mention has to be the performance from Ethan Slater as the Tin Man. I was entranced, and honestly scared, of his character and he deserves recognition for all he delivered in the film which was as captivating as it was unforgettable.
The breathtaking visuals balanced with the darker, more emotional themes fully immerse the audience in the world of Oz. The film stays faithful to the musical whilst adding small touches of extra context here and there which I think were a great addition. While I think the soundtrack may not quite top that of the first film, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this sequel. Ultimately, Wicked: For Good is more than just a musical, it is a celebration of resilience and friendship. Between the remarkable performances and spectacular visuals, the film leaves you smiling, laughing and crying, so grab your friends, and tissues, and prepare to be completely mesmerised by the world of Oz.