I got to check out Wicked 2: Wicked for Good on Wednesday night, and oh boy… there’s a lot to unpack. So let’s start with the bright spots.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo: The Talent Is Talenting
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo can sing. That part is not up for debate. Their voices carry this movie, and their performances feel believable from start to finish. Ariana even nails a few light, funny moments, and I was genuinely here for those. Huge props to both of them.
Oz Looks Amazing
Visually, this film delivers exactly what you expect from a giant Hollywood fantasy production. Bright, immersive, over-the-top worldbuilding that feels like stepping straight into Oz. The color grading is lush, the sets are gorgeous, and the costuming pulls you even deeper into the fantasy.
Now Let’s Talk About the Messy Stuff
As much as the film sparkles on the outside, it’s got some cracks in the foundation. There are plot holes scattered throughout this second installment, and the way they tie up one major storyline from the first film feels lazy. They basically toss an answer at you like, “Here, take it,” without any setup or breadcrumbs along the way. I was genuinely annoyed. You can’t tease something that big in the first movie and then slam the door shut without doing the work.
Lots of Tears… Maybe Too Many
There is a surprising amount of crying in this movie. My sister came out of the theater straight-up annoyed by it. I wasn’t exactly bothered, but I totally got what she meant. It’s emotional overload at times, and not always in a purposeful way.
Where Are the Musical Moments?
Here’s my biggest pet peeve: the songs in this half of the story don’t hit the way they should. Not a single banger. No standout number. Nothing that makes you want to replay it on the ride home.
And the lack of choreography? Wild to me. This is Wicked. I grew up on Grease and Grease 2. I need a “let’s bowl, let’s bowl, let’s rock and roll” moment. I need an ensemble breaking into synchronized magic. I need something. But here, the musical vibe is so toned down that I honestly forgot I was even watching a musical. It felt like a movie with a few emotional songs sprinkled in—nothing more.
Final Thoughts
I’m landing at 3 out of 5 stars for Wicked for Good. It’s good. It’s entertaining enough and definitely worth seeing if you’re already invested in the story or you’re a huge Ariana or Cynthia fan.
Would I watch it again? Probably not.
Wicked for Good is in theaters now. If you check it out, I hope you get a banger where I didn’t.
