The excitement around “Wicked: For Good” is building as the highly anticipated musical arrives in theaters on November 21. This sequel continues the enchanting tale of Glinda (played by Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), whose friendship profoundly impacts the realm of Oz. Fans of “The Wizard of Oz” understand that Dorothy’s presence is essential to this narrative, though director Jon M. Chu promises a fresh take on the story.
In a creative twist, the character of Dorothy will appear in “Wicked: For Good,” but her face will remain unseen. This decision aligns with Chu’s vision to honor the various interpretations audiences may have of Dorothy, ensuring that the focus remains primarily on Elphaba and Glinda’s journey. While the Broadway version features Dorothy only in shadows and references, the upcoming film provides her a more substantial presence, albeit without direct face time.
The trailer foreshadows an interesting dynamic between Glinda and Dorothy, as Grande insinuates there may be elements of rivalry. She highlights a moment where Glinda directs Dorothy, but not in the most straightforward way, indicating a playful complexity between the two characters. This gives the narrative an intriguing layer of depth as Glinda simultaneously grapples with her own journey while assisting Dorothy.
The musical’s storyline also encompasses Elphaba’s transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West as she faces societal rejection, while Glinda basks in her fame but struggles to maintain her relationship with Elphaba. Chu has warned that the emotional depth in this installment will surpass the first, reinforcing that “Part 1 is about choices, and Part 2 is about consequences.”
The trailer further showcases the returning iconic characters that fans cherish, including the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, hinting at a blend of nostalgia and new storytelling. The anticipation for this sequel builds on the success of its predecessor, which shattered box office records and won multiple Academy Awards, making the upcoming “Wicked: For Good” a promising continuation of a beloved narrative. As the film approaches its release date, audiences are eager to journey once more into the magical realm of Oz.