Wicked: For Good (2025) - A Magical Yet Flawed Oz Adventure

In this episode of Mindset Movie Reviews, I take a closer look at Wicked: For Good (2025). Directed by Jon M. Chu, starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, and Jonathan Bailey. ⭐ Rating: 3.0/5 🏆 IMDb: 6.7/10 🎬 Genre: Drama, Romance, Musical, Fantasy, and Family ⏱ Runtime: 137 minutes 📅 Release Year: 2025 🎥 Watch the full video review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vbR5RnBLHo Follow the podcast for more honest movie reviews — no fluff, no hype.

Transcript

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Today we're diving into Wicked for Good from 2025. In Wicked for Good, director John M. Chu takes us back to the enchanting land of Oz, where the complex relationship between Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erevo, the future Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, played by Ariana Grande, the Good Witch of the North, unfolds. This film is the second part of a two-part adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked, and it attempts to capture the magic and drama of its stage predecessor. The film dives into the political and social dynamics of Oz, where Elphaba, having discovered the wizards, played by Jeff Goldblum deceitful plans, becomes a fugitive. Her mission to expose the truth about the wizard's exploitation of Oz's talking animals adds a layer of intrigue and urgency to the narrative. Meanwhile, Glinda, who struggles with her own limitations in magic, is caught in a web of deception spun by the manipulative Madame Morable, played by Michelle Yeo. The film cleverly uses these elements to draw parallels to contemporary issues of propaganda and misinformation. While the film boasts stunning visuals and impressive production design, it struggles to maintain the momentum of its predecessor. The screenplay, penned by Dana Fox and Winnie Holdsman, attempts to expand on the original material by introducing new songs and plot points. However, these additions sometimes feel forced and detract from the film's overall impact. The musical numbers, though beautifully performed, lack the memorable punch of the stage version's iconic tunes. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Arivo deliver strong performances, capturing the emotional depth of their characters' friendship and rivalry. Grande's portrayal of Glinda showcases her growth and vulnerability, while Arivo's Alphaba is a force to be reckoned with, especially during the powerful no good deed sequence. Their chemistry is palpable and their performances anchor the film amidst its narrative detours. Despite its flaws, Wicked for Good offers moments of genuine magic and emotional resonance. The film's exploration of themes like sacrifice, identity, and the blurred lines between good and evil adds depth to the story. However, the pacing issues and the sometimes convoluted plot may leave some viewers longing for the tighter, more cohesive storytelling of the stage production. In the end, Wicked for Good is a visually stunning and ambitious adaptation that, while not quite reaching the heights of its predecessor, still manages to captivate audiences with its enchanting world and compelling characters. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of the Wicked story and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations. Whether you're a diehard fan of the musical or a newcomer to the world of Oz, this film offers a glimpse into the magic and complexity of a tale that has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. And that concludes my review of Wicked for Good, and I'm giving it three stars out of a possible five. Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this review, please like, subscribe, and it will be great to see you next time at Mindset Movie Reviews.