It’s finally here, the conclusion to the story we’ve all been waiting for: Wicked: For Good. For those who’ve lived and breathed the Broadway musical for years, seeing Elphaba and Glinda’s story unfold on the big screen is a dream come true. And while the first film, Wicked, stayed remarkably close to its stage origins, Wicked: For Good has taken a few more detours down the Yellow Brick Road, expanding the narrative in ways that feel both familiar and refreshingly new.
Director Jon M. Chu explained that splitting the story into two parts was crucial for giving the characters the space they needed to grow. "We knew that Wicked: For Good was always going to be the bigger story," he shared. "The kids we fell in love with in the first film now have to grow up, and they have to make choices that will last a lifetime. This isn’t school anymore." This sentiment is palpable throughout the film, as Elphaba and Glinda grapple with their evolving reputations and the weight of their decisions.
One of the most noticeable changes is the deeper dive into Elphaba's past. While the musical hints at her origins, the film gives us a visual journey, showing us her childhood and even introducing a talking bear named Dulcibear. This character is instrumental in explaining Elphaba's deep-seated concern for animals and their ability to speak, a crucial element that drives much of her motivation. It’s a lovely touch that adds a layer of understanding to her character, making her plight even more poignant.
Then there's the introduction to Shiz University. In the musical, Elphaba is already a student, there to care for her sister Nessarose. The film, however, presents her arrival as more of an accidental enrollment. Madame Morrible spots Elphaba’s raw power and insists she stay, setting the stage for her fateful roommate assignment with Glinda. It’s a subtle shift, but it emphasizes the external forces that begin to shape Elphaba’s destiny.
Doctor Dillamond, the wise talking goat and professor, also gets a bit more screen time and context. While he’s a central figure in both versions, warning students about the anti-animal agenda sweeping Oz, the film introduces us to other talking animals who seem to be part of a resistance. The song "Something Bad," a pivotal moment in the musical, is performed by Doctor Dillamond and Elphaba in his private quarters in the film, offering a more intimate setting for this powerful number.
And Fiyero? His introduction and his initial interactions with Elphaba have been tweaked for the screen. The musical sets up a love triangle between Glinda, Elphaba, and Fiyero, but the film offers a slightly different path for how he and Elphaba first cross paths. It’s these kinds of adjustments that allow the cinematic adaptation to breathe and find its own rhythm, while still honoring the spirit of the original stage production.
Perhaps the most significant additions are the three new songs: "Every Day More Wicked," "No Place Like Home," and "The Girl in the Bubble." These musical numbers aren't just filler; they serve to deepen our understanding of the characters' internal struggles and the world they inhabit. They weave seamlessly into the existing narrative, making you wonder how you ever imagined Wicked without them.
Ultimately, Wicked: For Good on screen is a testament to the enduring power of the story. While there are differences, the heart of Elphaba and Glinda's complex friendship, their fight against injustice, and their journey of self-discovery remain as strong as ever. It’s a beautiful adaptation that honors its roots while forging its own path, offering something special for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.