I have been changed for good. 

“Wicked For Good”, starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, and others, has been highly anticipated since the first movie [and theater smash], “Wicked,” came out last November. “Wicked For Good” has officially beaten “Wicked" at the box office, grossing over $150 million its opening weekend. My takeaway, it deserved every penny. 

“Wicked” and “Wicked For Good” have been able to create media buzz and anticipation for over two years now. You could argue it worked quite successfully. From the devoted fans showing up in green paint from head to toe, to the unique merchandise being bought in tons of different stores, and the social media reviews, reactions and excitement constantly being posted. “Wicked For Good” was set up to be the most anticipated movie in the last few years, and their box office earnings are evidence that it brought everyone out. 

Despite the buzz and anticipation, Rotten Tomatoes gave the movie a 68%, while the audience reviews seemed to be nothing short of amazing, earning it a 94%. I have to strongly disagree with the low Rotten Tomatoes rating and side with the audience ratings on this film. While I feel it was not as good as “Wicked," the film still hit everything you need in a movie musical and paid respect to the original Broadway production in small but meaningful ways. 

The movie opens with the yellow brick road being built, and soon after, Erivo’s character, Elphaba, appears on screen. The completely full theater went wild. Cheers, applause, whistles. This is when I knew I was in for an exciting experience. The rest of the movie continues on with main themes being friendship, loyalty, corruption, identity and sacrifice. 

Elphaba is portrayed as the Wicked Witch, and Glinda as Glinda the Good. The friends are pinned against each other publicly, but the movie shows their struggle of friendship, doing what is right, and fighting corruption beyond the eyes of the Ozians. The themes of identity and sacrifice are highlighted through song throughout the film and bring a powerful message to the audience in a captivating way. 

The musical element of the film is something that sticks with you well after you finish watching. Songs such as “For Good,” “No Good Deed,” and "As Long As You’re Mine” brought the theater to life. You could feel the visceral reaction of the audience being drawn into the song. At some points, the audience even clapped or cheered in points in the song.

The “Wicked” franchise is one that has captured the cultural zeitgeist across generations and continues to be cherished. “Wicked For Good” is the perfect movie to see to kick off this holiday season and bring families together for a heartwarming movie. Just be warned, it will have you singing like a Broadway star for days to follow. 

Tags: Review

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