Reel Review: Wicked: For Good Will Change You For The Better
After one whole year of anticipation, we have returned to Oz for one last time in the thrillifying Wicked: For Good!
After Elphaba defies gravity and flees from Oz, Glinda “couldn’t be happier” to be named the Good Witch and take her rightful seat in a high position of power. Even announcing her engagement to Fiyero, Glinda is leaving her dreams; but misses having her best friend by her side. But when Elphaba comes back to Oz in order to expose Madam Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) and the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum), more chaos and harm to their beloved Emerald City suffers the consequence.
While a continuation to the first film, Wicked: For Good takes an even darker turn. Each character feels more mature and comfortable with their roles in their society. Elphaba is more confident in herself and her magic; and it is evident in the way she holds her broom. Glinda, while indulging in the perks of popularity, also has deeper emotions she must conceal. When the two reunite, their patience is tested and the stakes are high.
There is an underlying moral dilemma of good vs. evil that the story portrays through these two characters. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are complete powerhouses in telling the story and take their characters to new depths in this second film.
The film also makes way for other characters to shine. In a simultaneous timeline to The Wizard of Oz, the viewers get a backstory on Boq, Fiyero, and Nessa before their transformation into the Tinman, Scarecrow, and the Wicked Witch of the East. While Ethan Slater and Marissa Bode showcased amazing performances, it was Jonathon Bailey that stole the show.
People’s Sexiest Man Alive was no tease. Jonathon Bailey’s performance in Wicked: For Good was even more passionate and desirable. The chemistry between Erivo and Bailey in “As Long As You’re Mine” is one that will remain forever symbolic. From the voice to the choreography, Fiyero is a character that has captivated our hearts from the very start.
There is no better fit to tell Glinda and Elphaba’s tale than the incredible talents of Grande and Erivo. The chemistry is that of a true sisterhood and the love they have for each other is apparent in every choice the film made. Between them and the audience, there was not a dry eye in the theater during the emotional “For Good” scene.
Since its start on Broadway, people all across the world have found solace in the incredible story of Wicked. Now, the films are giving even more of an opportunity for this to take place; and it is all thanks to the brilliance of director Jon M. Chu. The hard work is evident in every decision; from the costumes, songs, choreography, and set designs. Every part of Wicked: For Good felt refreshing and the film in its entirety is nothing short of a masterpiece. Wicked: For Good is magic mixed with raw emotion, and will have you completely changed for good.
Wicked: For Good hits theaters on November 21.
