Plot: Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), the future Wicked Witch of the West, and her relationship with Glinda (Ariana Grande), the Good Witch of the North. The second of a two-part feature film adaptation of the Broadway musical.
Changed…For Good?
We’ve been eagerly anticipating this two-part sequel to WICKED, but I must confess that it didn’t quite live up to the lofty expectations that have surrounded it. The film was re-titled to include “for Good,” which beautifully hints at the diverging paths that Glinda and Elphaba ultimately chose. However, Elphaba’s journey was already marred by betrayal, as The Wizard and Madame Morrible cunningly manipulated her into becoming the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. This film delves deep into the emotional chasm that formed between Elphaba and those she once considered friends, as well as her profound connection to the one person she truly regarded as family. It raises a thought-provoking question: can the choice between good and evil be as simple as it seems?
Elphaba
Anyone can decide to embrace goodness just as easily as they can succumb to wickedness. While this narrative unfolds through musical numbers, the core of the story remains focused on the tragic arc of its characters, leaving viewers with an unsettling question that lingers in the air: Do you aspire to be good, or will you walk the path of wickedness? Ultimately, the course of one’s life rests solely in one’s own hands, highlighting the idea that each person shapes their own destiny. The most invaluable possession a person can hold is their name, and that is what Elphaba fiercely fought to defend—her name, yearning for recognition that she is not the malevolent figure others have cast her as. Through it all, her struggle for identity resonates deeply, reminding us that the perceptions of others cannot always be true and, above all else, factual in nature.
Nessarose
Power. That one single word can be either dangerous or a marvelous gift when it is given or earned by someone. By choosing the right path and destiny, power in the right person’s hands can accomplish great, monumental, and beneficial things. However, in the wrong hands, it can lead to detrimental outcomes. Take Nessa, Elphaba’s sister, for example. She loved to exert her power and authority over Boq, a man whom she claimed to love and care for deeply. If she truly loved him, why would she choose to punish him and make him her personal servant? Nessa was aware of Boq’s feelings for Glinda and used that knowledge against him once she became the Governor. Again, giving power to someone who seeks to use it for personal gain is never a good idea, both in this movie and in real life.
Your “Wicked” Choice – or Just A Simple “Good Choice”
Power can cloud people’s judgment, leading them to act irrationally and see themselves as invincible. This arrogance often results in their downfall, as emotions and personal feelings interfere with their decision-making. When power is removed from such individuals, they may revert to a state of clearer thinking and compassion, much like Boq, who stayed by Nessa’s side for many years—not out of guilt, but out of the love he had for her. Although it was not the same type of love Nessa had for him, his kind-hearted nature compelled him to act selflessly. In contrast, Nessa demonstrated greed, foolishness, and selfishness in her actions.
Wicked For Good
The film powerfully illustrates that we all possess the agency to determine our actions and shape our lives. Even when it feels like a decision is beyond your control, remember: you have complete authority over your choices, including your words and deeds. In moments of desperation, resist the urge to feel helpless! Stand firm for what is right, even when the world seems against you. Though Glinda and Elphaba faced conflict, they ultimately found unity and strength in each other. If something or someone is genuinely good for you and truly belongs in your life, it may temporarily drift away, but if it’s meant to return, it will. If it doesn’t come back, it simply was never meant to be. Our lives should be filled with goodness, joy, and purpose, not negativity, greed, and malice. You have the power to choose to live as “Wicked for Good,” or to embrace the path of pure goodness. The choice is yours, and the impact can be profound.
I have never seen the musical, so I’m not missing this. Were you pissed that the 1st one turned out to be Part 1? Cause I was! LOL
What do you mean – are u meaning that we had to wait a year for the sequel? If so, I already knew it was going to be a two-parter ahead of time and I am glad that I caught up with the rest of the world and FINALLY saw the Musical. I felt like I was the only person who had not seen the actual Broadway production – now you are! Lol
Very good words …spoken with heart! I loved the movie and it shows how easily people are manipulated, it shows that a true villain can be right in front of us and we never realize it…I do think Part 1 is the better film, this needed a little more for the story…
I wholeheartedly agree with everything you’ve said. People can easily be influenced, but it’s crucial to tap into that “positive power” within you and refuse to accept the negativity others try to impose. Use this inner strength as motivation to stand your ground and prove them wrong while remaining true to yourself. You have nothing to prove to anyone except yourself, and that is the only validation that truly matters.
I enjoyed this film. Really solid completion to the 1st. Loved the backstory of the characters.
You see! And you went into it with low expectations! It is always great when movies prove us wrong – although some we are “dead on” with! Did you enjoy the first one better than this one?
Now I’ll have to see it! LOL!! Sounds like I’ll enjoy it!
To fully appreciate the art of filmmaking, it is essential to open both our imagination and mind, just as I do when crafting my reviews. Cinema often mirrors the complexities of our real-world experiences, showcasing a range of emotions, struggles, and triumphs that resonate with our lives. These films are abundant; we simply need to be willing to engage with the narratives and themes being presented. By actively listening to the characters and deciphering the messages conveyed through their performances, we can enhance our enjoyment and develop a deeper appreciation for the storytelling craft. This approach allows us to connect more personally with the film, making our viewing experience richer and more meaningful.
My son saw the movie yesterday. He has informed me, he felt that it was way better than the first one, but the first one had better music than the second. Way better movie though! 🤣
I can see that your son is one of the first to feel that this movie surpasses the original, which really highlights how diverse opinions can be. Many people are sharing that they prefer the first film, often pointing to its memorable songs. It’s understandable why some might feel that way, especially since the sequel takes on a darker and more complex narrative, diving deeper into the storyline. Everyone has their own unique take on the films, and that’s what makes discussing them so interesting.
I couldn’t disagree more. I found Part 2 to be more heartfelt and deeper. The songs were just as good in it. None of the songs pulled on my heart in Part 1, but with Part 2 I was struck by the dreaded onion ninjas. Especially during the performance of the titular song “For Good”.
Well, not everyone will see eye-to eye and that is waht my friend told me as well that the sequel is only a continuation of the 1st and its actually not 2 completely seperate films; maybe that is how everyone is viwing it and why it is not getting all the hype and buzz as the first inital one did.
Beautiful assessment! I truly can’t wait to wrap up the epic conclusion to THIS story! I assure you there will be more!
Thanks – if there is more, they will be prequels or some sort of spin off!