Movie Review: Wicked: For Good

 

Michael's Movie Grade: A

A wonderful sequel to a wonderful film. 

The first Wicked was a more lighthearted musical with a few more serious undertones worked into it. In this sequel, those serious undertones are rather in the forefront for a darker and more serious ride. This is even seen in the musical numbers, which are no longer the huge singing and dancing production numbers, but rather more heartfelt ballads. Despite this, the focus is still on the same place as the first movie. This is to say, the focus is on the two main characters. These characters remain the endearing yet complex characters that won our hearts in the first film. This movie goes even deeper into examining these characters. This is especially true of Glinda, who receives everything she ever dreamed of, yet at the price of what she knows is right. This is in perfect contrast to how in the previous movie, Elphaba refused receiving all her dreams because she would have to give up everything she stands for. Glinda though finds it too hard to resist all that she is given, though she is bugged by her conscience. As much as the first film is Elphaba's story, this movie is Glinda's story. Though I loved her character in the first movie, I found myself growing even more attached to her here. There were times, when my heart was simply breaking for her. Yet this movie also does a great job with Elphaba. This film shows the aftermath of her having given up her dreams for her morals. You feel her loneliness her and understand why she can't go back. The scenes between her and her sister are emotionally heartbreaking and make you feel so deeply for her. Speaking of her sister, we see her true colors come out in what are possibly the hardest to watch scenes emotionally. This leads to the origin of one of the main Wizard of Oz characters, which is disturbing but incredibly effective. 

Many critics are stating that the musical numbers aren't as strong here as in the first film. I kind of understand where they are coming from but don't completely agree. In the first movie every song hit masterfully. Here, there are a few songs that are kind of forgettable and not up to the standards expected. However, the best songs in this movie (such as No Good Deed, For Good, Wonderful and As Long as Your Mine) are just as great as any of the songs from the first movie. Of course, regardless of the song, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are absolutely wonderful performing them. 

This movie also benefits greatly from wonderful visuals and a great sense of atmosphere. Just like the first movie, this film transports you immediately to the wonderful land of OZ. The whole fantasy world feels so completely real to us and that is the most you can ask for in a fantasy film. The very intelligent and thought-provoking themes about how governments will use scapegoating to keep power is also present here and just as brilliantly used here as in the first movie. 

A must watch.