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Excitement Builds for ‘Wicked: For Good’
The advantage of shooting sequels simultaneously is that audiences can catch a glimpse of the follow-up much sooner than they would with standard releases. This is certainly the case for Wicked: For Good, the highly anticipated second installment of the musical saga directed by Jon M. Chu. Fans were treated to a tantalizing preview that hints at the thrilling events awaiting them when the film debuts in theaters in November 2025.
The recently unveiled trailer showcases Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, who finds herself in a dramatic confrontation with Ariana Grande’s Glinda on the balcony of her chic residence in the Emerald City. The preview starts with a nostalgic Universal Studios logo, accompanied by Erivo’s powerful rendition of “No Good Deed.” Viewers witness Elphaba igniting a revolution in Oz, boldly inscribing “The Wizard Lies” across the sky as she takes flight on her broom, prompting a fierce threat from the Wizard.
Transitioning into a fresh rendition of “For Good,” the trailer includes glimpses of Glinda’s wedding and stunning visuals resembling Jon M. Chu’s signature scenes from Crazy Rich Asians. While Glinda remains partially obscured, audiences also catch fleeting moments of Dorothy with her companions traversing the iconic yellow brick road, as well as interactions with the Wizard. A pivotal scene features Jonathan Bailey’s character, Fiyero, brandishing a weapon at Ozian soldiers while handing Elphaba her broom. The emotional crescendo of “For Good” plays as Elphaba and Glinda clasp hands and express their enduring friendship.
In a climactic moment, Elphaba confronts the Wizard in his chamber, leading to a final shot of her soaring away from menacing flying monkeys, culminating in the dramatic reveal of the Wicked: For Good title card.
The first part of Wicked made its theatrical debut in November 2024, garnering exceptional critical acclaim. Not only did it emerge as one of the year’s highest-grossing films, but it also claimed the title of the most successful musical adaptation ever, surpassing numerous competitors at the box office. Despite various controversies during production, the collaborative efforts of Chu and the lead cast, which includes Erivo and Grande, proved that they created a film worthy of the beloved Wicked legacy.
‘Wicked: For Good’ Aiming to Exceed Projections
It is one thing to achieve record-breaking success with a film, yet when that film is split into two parts, there is a significant possibility that the sequel could eclipse its predecessor. This is largely due to the expanding and dedicated viewer base. The first installment of Wicked concluded its theatrical run with an impressive gross of $747 million, significantly surpassing its estimated production budget. Following its cinematic success, the film has also maintained a strong presence on various VOD platforms, recently making its way to Peacock’s streaming service.
With this trajectory, Wicked: For Good is anticipated not only to draw back audiences who enjoyed the first film in theaters but also those who opted to watch it from home. This blend of viewers positions the sequel for a potential box office performance surpassing $1 billion upon its release.
However, the ambitions of Wicked: For Good extend beyond financial achievements. With promises of new musical compositions from the original creator, Stephen Schwartz, an enriched storyline that diverges from the stage adaptation, and significant awards potential, there is optimism that the second part will resonate as well as, if not better than, its predecessor. After years in developmental limbo, it seems the cinematic adaptation of Wicked was simply waiting for the right combination of talented actors, writers, and directors to come together.
Source: Discussing Film
Release Date: November 26, 2025
Writers: Winnie Holzman, Gregory Maguire, L. Frank Baum, Dana Fox
Source
movieweb.com