The highly anticipated conclusion to the Wicked film saga has arrived in Australian cinemas, and while it may not quite reach the magical heights of its predecessor, Wicked: For Good delivers a satisfying finale to this reimagined Oz story.
A Tale of Two Witches Continues
Set several years after the events of the first film, Wicked: For Good continues the complex relationship between green-skinned Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and the popular Glinda (Ariana Grande). The political landscape of Oz has grown darker, with Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) now serving as the Wizard's chief propagandist and Glinda reluctantly participating in spreading fear about her former friend.
The story deepens as Elphaba remains an outlaw, fighting for the rights of talking Animals who face persecution, while Glinda navigates her engagement to Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey), now Captain of the Wizard's Guard. Meanwhile, Elphaba's half-sister Nessarose (Marissa Bode) has become the oppressive governor of Munchkinland.
Production Excellence Amid Narrative Challenges
Director Jon M. Chu and writer Winnie Holzman have created another visually stunning installment, with exceptional production design, costumes, and special effects that maintain the artificial charm reminiscent of the 1939 classic. The film features several clandestine meetings between the two witches as they attempt to sway each other to their respective causes, though this back-and-forth dynamic may test some viewers' patience.
Australian audiences will appreciate subtle nods to our local fauna, with kangaroos and koalas making unexpected appearances among the more traditional Oz creatures. The film also provides origin stories for iconic characters like the Scarecrow and Tin Man, while offering a fresh perspective on Dorothy's famous encounter with the Wicked Witch of the West.
Musical Magic and Performance Brilliance
While Stephen Schwartz's new songs don't quite match the catchiness of those in the first film, the musical numbers remain engaging. The cast delivers powerful performances, particularly Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, whose vocal talents shine throughout. Jeff Goldblum returns as the Wizard, though his talk-singing style may not appeal to all musical theatre purists.
The film maintains strong connections to both the original Broadway production and the 1939 film, using similar fonts and making numerous visual references that will delight Oz enthusiasts. While it may not achieve the cultural immortality of its predecessors, Wicked: For Good stands as a worthy addition to the expanding Oz universe.
Released on November 21, 2025, this 137-minute fantasy adventure carries a PG rating and promises to captivate Australian audiences with its blend of political commentary, magical spectacle, and emotional depth.
