Mixed reviews for ‘Wicked: For Good’ highlight both praise and criticism

The highly anticipated sequel to *Wicked*, titled *Wicked: For Good*, premiered with broadly positive but mixed reviews from critics. While some appreciated the return of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as Elphaba and Glinda, others were less enchanted with the film’s execution. The sequel, which explores the origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West, was noted for having a more somber tone compared to the first film. Critics praised the strong performances, particularly Grande’s nuanced portrayal of Glinda, though some lamented the film’s weaker songs and pacing. Despite these criticisms, the film was lauded for maintaining the magic of the original musical in its visual style and world-building. However, certain reviews felt that the sequel lacked the impact of its predecessor, with some even describing it as a slog. The film’s overall tone was also criticized for being darker and less cheerful, reducing its overall enjoyment. Directed by Jon M. Chu, *Wicked: For Good* is a continuation of the story adapted from Gregory Maguire’s book, though it struggles to match the original’s commercial and critical success. Nonetheless, Grande’s performance has earned her praise, with some speculating she could receive an Oscar nomination.