Key Highlights
- Wicked: For Good, a sequel to the 2023 film Wicked, has received mixed reviews from critics.
- Ariana Grande’s performance is praised for its nuance and depth, while Cynthia Erivo remains a powerhouse on screen.
- The film struggles with thinner source material and weak new songs compared to the original.
- Many critics find the sequel less engaging than its predecessor, citing an aimless plot and lack of magic.
New ‘Wicked’ Sequel Faces Criticism for Lack of Magic
The much-anticipated sequel to Wicked: For Great, titled Wicked: For Good, has divided the critical community. While some found the film an “absolute triumph,” others were less enchanted, describing it as a “sluggish” follow-up that fails to capture the magic of its predecessor.
Critical Views on ‘Wicked: For Good’
Several critics provided their assessments, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the film. Empire’s John Nugent awarded Wicked: For Good three stars, noting that it “doesn’t quite reach the heights of Part One,” but still delivers a “highly entertaining display” of musical theatre on screen.
Total Film’s Molly Edwards praised the film as an “absolute triumph” but acknowledged its shortcomings. She stated, “It suffers slightly from thinner source material and weak new songs.” This sentiment is echoed by The i paper’s Francesca Steele, who wrote that while the performances are top-notch, “it doesn’t amount to two hours of story—the stage show clips through the same plot in around half the time.”
Ariana Grande’s Performance Stands Out
In contrast to the mixed reviews, many critics lauded Ariana Grande’s performance as Glinda. Peter Debruge of Variety described her as showing “fragility” in a more nuanced role compared to her previous one. The Hollywood Reporter’s David Rooney noted that Grande has been acting since she was a child and now shows “tender depths, as does her loyalty to Elphaba.” Her co-star Cynthia Erivo also receives praise for delivering another powerhouse performance.
Challenges of the Sequel
Wicked: For Good faces several challenges. The film’s director Jon M Chu has directed Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights, and Now You See Me 2. However, the sequel struggles with thinner source material and weak new songs compared to the first film.
Clarisse Loughrey of The Independent described it as “an aimless slog” where “there’s no magic.” The Telegraph’s Robbie Collin went even further, awarding the film one star and declaring it a “disappointment.”
Kevin Maher of The Times was more positive, giving the film four stars. He praised its verve, ambition, and emotional depth. Despite these mixed reviews, both films have been successful at the box office. The first film grossed over £750 million worldwide and went on to win two Oscars, two Baftas, and various other accolades.
Future Prospects for ‘Wicked’
The success of Wicked: For Good may lead to further adaptations. The stage musical was split into two parts for its film adaptation but was filmed in one go. Both movies have been directed by Jon M Chu, who is also set to direct a new big-screen adaptation of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, pencilled in for release in 2027.
In conclusion, while Wicked: For Good has its merits, it falls short of capturing the magic that made the first film so successful. Critics and audiences alike await what future adaptations may bring to this beloved story.
