“Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?” This quote embodies the central theme of Wicked. It truly evokes the thought and differences between natural evil and the harsh upbringings that project wickedness. In other words, the idea of perception v. reality, which is explored throughout the new film “Wicked: For Good.”
Just released on November 21st of 2025, “Wicked: For Good” sneakily presents the intense complexities of character development and self-discovery while confronting the obstacle of prejudice and societal expectations. From the iconic musicality to the powerful revelations of self-discovery through friendship,”Wicked: For Good” has left me utterly “Obsessulated.” Director Jon M. Chu does a fabulous job of sprinkling symbolic allegories throughout his work, allowing the audience to dissect the film and explore different interpretations.
Following the discovery of the Wizard’s deception in “Wicked: Part One”, Elphaba, now a fugitive living in exile, conspiring to expose the hidden corruption within Oz, has been deemed “The Wicked Witch of the West” by The Wizard and Madam Morrible in efforts to protect their images. In contrast, Galinda, now referred to as “Glinda The Good,” has been transformed into a political figure intended as a beacon of light to instill joy within the Ozians (or perhaps keep them blind to the corruption which surrounds them…). Elphaba, the “Wicked Witch,” decides to face the consequences of reality and become an advocate for the oppressed animals of Oz, despite still withstanding her own injustices; meanwhile, Glinda, the supposed “Good Witch,” in spite of knowing the truth while holding the power of influence, chooses both arrogance and ignorance. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Glinda’s character, especially as the film progresses; however, it’s apparent that although her heart may be pure, she is easily manipulated; aside from that, the ironic symbolism behind their titles reveals the unfortunate truth that perception — although not always realistically accurate– is everything.
After Elphaba confronts the Wizard and demands that he liberates all the animals of Oz, the Wizard begins attempting to persuade Elphaba to join him through his musical number “Wonderful,” featuring Glinda. Quick sidenote, Jeff Goldblum and Ariana Grande’s vocals paired together was a chef’s kiss. They blended so perfectly that it felt mesmerizingly addictive. Although I suppose that is the whole point… Anyways, the presentation in this scene does an excellent job of capturing the manipulation tactics used to influence Elphaba. Starting off, we understand Glinda is one of the few people whom Elphaba honestly trusts, meaning Elphaba is more likely to be compliant with the Wizard when Glinda is involved in this persuasion. It’s also apparent that all Elphaba has wanted since childhood is to feel accepted; therefore, the constant repetition of the word “Wonderful” is manipulating Elphaba by dangling the possibility of being socially accepted. Through the hypnotizing atmosphere through an ever-changing rainbow background, them spinning in circles, and the upbeat circus-like tone throughout the song, their intentions of putting Elphaba “under their spell” is clear. Finally, in the lyrics, Glinda is portrayed singing to Elphaba, “we will be wonderful,” displaying how Glinda and Elphaba ultimately dream of a universe where they are both accepted as their honest and authentic selves. On the other hand, the Wizard sings the lines “you’ll make me wonderful,” revealing his selfish intentions all along.
During the Glinda and Fiyeros wedding scene, whilst Glinda is seen flourishing down the aisle, the camera flips between her and Elphaba, who is at the same moment found discovering the Wizard’s hidden closet full of enslaved animals, further disclosing more facades the Wizard is hiding. The contrasting scenes between Glinda walking down the aisle, living in a fantasy world with “no troubles,” versus Elphaba walking down the hallway, witnessing the realities and horrific treatments occurring highlight their differences of character. Now, call me dramatic, but come on, Jon M. Chu is a cinematic genius; the way he directed this scene is truly so powerful and displays how out of touch Glinda’s world is.
In the midst of all this heartache, we witness a hilarious fight scene between Elphaba and Glinda, serving as a comedic relief after Fiyero abandons Glinda, feeling deceived on their wedding day, to be with Elphaba, and Madam Morrible, being a true “Wicked Witch,” conjures a storm, leading to a house crushing Nessa. We then see the Oz Army attempting to capture Elphaba, and after setting her free, Fiyero is reprimanded for his treachery of conspiring with her. This was a HUGE moment of character development for Glinda, despite still feeling betrayed, attempts to protect Fiyero, stating “He wasn’t going to hurt me! He just… loves her.” (internally sobbing right now btw) Although unsuccessful, this moment is a turning point for Glinda; she has finally accepted that Fiyero was never truly hers, and rather than sulking in resentment, chooses to be selfless. Ariana Grande did a fabulous job of portraying Glinda as although never alone, always lonely. In all honesty, the casting of both films is complete perfection. From the main characters to the background characters (shoutout Bowen Yang, my king), they each present unique versions of themselves.
Towards the end of the film, we witness the forming of an angry mob determined to end Elphaba, for good (see what I did there ;D). Glinda, now comprehending the true meaning of “good” and deciding to finally make a change, sets off to warn and save Elphaba. During this scene, they perform their famous duet, “For Good.” This beautifully constructed ballad conveys the message that throughout their complicated friendship, both Glinda and Elphaba have made profound impacts on each other’s lives. During their heartfelt orchestra Elphaba admits she will never be able to make a difference compared to the way Glinda could. This sincere moment of acceptance took sincere humility and courage to allow herself to embrace the fact that she doesn’t need to be accepted by society to be “good,” which goes to show how much personal growth she’s attained.
After a few shocking revelations and finally reaching the resolution, Glinda, who is now embracing her role as a political figure by dismantling the corrupt system within Oz, is unfortunately forced to continue the facade of Elphaba being the “Wicked Witch of the West.” As a theater newbie, I absolutely adored this film; the Wicked plot is so compact that, unfortunately, this merely skims the surface. I highly recommend that you don’t take my word for it. Instead, go out and experience Wicked for yourself, and if you’re still in need of some convincing, allow me to persuade you with two words… Jonathan Bailey.
