The highly anticipated Wicked: For Good opened to mixed critical reactions on Friday, with many reviewers noting it falls short of the first film’s spellbinding impact. Critics from major entertainment outlets praised standout performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande but questioned the sequel’s pacing, tone, and weaker musical additions. Released across global theatres, the film revisits the iconic Oz universe with expanded backstories for familiar characters. While some outlets awarded strong ratings, others described the sequel as lacking the magic that propelled Wicked (2024) to commercial and awards success. The divided response raises questions about how the film will perform during awards season and at the global box office.
What the Critics Said
Early reviews for Wicked: For Good show a broad range of responses from three-star praise to one-star disappointment. The sequel, directed by Jon M. Chu, brings back Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, expanding on their character arcs while introducing fresh origin stories for Dorothy’s iconic companions—the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion.
Empire’s John Nugent called the film “not quite Wicked: For Great,” citing a darker tone and slower pacing. Total Film’s Molly Edwards applauded the production’s scale but pointed out that the weaker new songs and thinner source material limit its emotional punch. Meanwhile, The i described it as entertaining but not as impactful as the original.
The sequel also features Jeff Goldblum returning as the Wizard, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, with all performances drawing consistent praise across outlets.
Voices from the Critics
Kevin Maher of The Times stood out as one of the film’s strongest supporters, writing:
“They’ve only gone and done it. This sequel surpasses last year’s hit in verve and ambition.”
Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian gave Erivo exceptionally high praise, calling her performance “a powerhouse display that keeps the film’s emotional centre alive.”
However, not all reactions were enthusiastic.
The Independent’s Clarisse Loughrey criticized the film as “an aimless slog of a sequel,” while the Telegraph’s Robbie Collin labeled it “exhausting” and said the central friendship “rings false.”
Variety highlighted Ariana Grande’s growth, noting her “fragility” and “nuanced” approach in Part Two. Critics also emphasized her chemistry with Erivo as a driving force behind the film’s emotional depth.
What It Means for Wicked’s Legacy
The original Wwicked earned two Oscars, two BAFTAs, and more than £750 million worldwide, setting an exceptionally high bar. With several of the franchise’s best-known songs appearing in the first film, the sequel faced inherent disadvantages.
Critics have pointed out that Wicked: For Good lacks a showstopper comparable to “Defying Gravity” or “Popular,” reducing musical momentum. The sequel’s darker tonal shift and heavier storyline also risk alienating viewers who connected deeply with the more vibrant Part One.
Still, strong performances—particularly from Erivo and Grande—may help maintain audience interest and bolster awards prospects, especially in acting categories.
Future Releases & Franchise Direction
Director Jon M. Chu is slated to continue his work in the musical genre with a 2027 feature adaptation of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
Meanwhile, Wicked: For Good will compete during awards season, with predictions already leaning toward another supporting actress nomination for Ariana Grande.
Box-office projections for opening weekend remain strong, though analysts are watching closely to see whether mixed reviews affect long-term performance.
Sources
BBC Entertainment
Variety
The Guardian
The Times
Empire
Total Film
The Independent
The Telegraph
