A disappointing follow-up, "Wicked: For Good" fails to live up to the magic of its predecessor. The film's attempt to subvert the classic tale of "The Wizard of Oz" falls flat, instead resorting to a shallow and forgettable exploration of dark themes.
Director Jon M. Chu's vision is undermined by a narrative that struggles to make sense of its own intentions. Does the film aim to revere or demystify the original? The result is a jarring and inconsistent viewing experience that fails to deliver on either front.
One of the biggest problems is the lack of character development, particularly in the second half of the story. The love triangle between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), Galinda (Ariana Grande), and Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) feels forced and rushed, with none of the songs memorable enough to leave a lasting impression.
The film's sets and design are beautifully realized, but even these cannot save "Wicked: For Good" from its overall lack of depth. The movie's themes of resistance against fascism feel shallow and overly simplistic, making it difficult to invest in the story.
In short, "Wicked: For Good" is a missed opportunity to create something truly special. While fans of the first film may still find some enjoyment, the sequel's failure to live up to expectations makes it a disappointing follow-up to a beloved classic.
Director Jon M. Chu's vision is undermined by a narrative that struggles to make sense of its own intentions. Does the film aim to revere or demystify the original? The result is a jarring and inconsistent viewing experience that fails to deliver on either front.
One of the biggest problems is the lack of character development, particularly in the second half of the story. The love triangle between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), Galinda (Ariana Grande), and Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) feels forced and rushed, with none of the songs memorable enough to leave a lasting impression.
The film's sets and design are beautifully realized, but even these cannot save "Wicked: For Good" from its overall lack of depth. The movie's themes of resistance against fascism feel shallow and overly simplistic, making it difficult to invest in the story.
In short, "Wicked: For Good" is a missed opportunity to create something truly special. While fans of the first film may still find some enjoyment, the sequel's failure to live up to expectations makes it a disappointing follow-up to a beloved classic.