It is uncertain whether the alteration of the title of “Wicked: Part Two” has resulted in an improvement, but one thing is certain – it has been changed for the better. Universal Pictures has decided to rebrand the sequel to this year’s musical sensation as “Wicked: For Good.” Scheduled to hit theaters on November 21, 2025, this film delves into the second act of the cherished Broadway production.
The original installment, “Wicked: Part One,” made its debut on the silver screen on November 22 and has already garnered an impressive $359 million at the domestic box office and over $524 million worldwide as of now. It currently stands as the highest-grossing adaptation from Broadway in terms of domestic earnings, surpassing the record previously held by “Grease” from 1978 ($188.62 million). Moreover, it ranks as the second-highest earner globally amongst stage-to-screen adaptations, trailing behind the success of “Mamma Mia” in 2008 ($611 million).
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the two-part “Wicked” spectacle features a star-studded cast including Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, and Jonathan Bailey. Offering a narrative that unfolds before, during, and after the events of “The Wizard of Oz,” the story delves into the origins of Glinda portrayed by Grande (later known as Glinda the Good) and Elphaba played by Erivo (eventually becoming known as the Wicked Witch of the West) prior to Dorothy’s arrival in Oz and her journey down the Yellow Brick Road.
In “Part One,” audiences witness the time Glinda and Elphaba spend together at Shiz University, where circumstances force them to become roommates, ultimately blossoming into a profound friendship. The sequel picks up after Elphaba has embraced her powers and is now deemed an enemy of the state by both the Wizard (Goldblum) and Madame Morrible (Yeoh). The new title of the follow-up film draws inspiration from an emotionally charged Act 2 song that reflects how the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good have been transformed by their deep bond.
Chu has hinted at the emotional intensity of the second half of the Ozian saga, describing it as a “doozy,” particularly in terms of its emotional impact. Reflecting on the societal context in which the film is being released, Chu emphasizes the heightened relevance of its themes surrounding truth and the consequences of one’s choices in the current climate. He notes, “It becomes eight times more relevant than before when you’re talking about truth and consequences of making the right or wrong choices. It’s intense.”
As anticipation builds for the release of “Wicked: For Good,” fans and critics alike eagerly await the continuation of this beloved tale that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
