Wicked 2: Friendship Tested, Performances Shine in 137-Minute Spectacle

The sequel to the beloved musical, 'Wicked: For Good' (Wicked 2), delves deeper into the complex friendship between Glinda (played by Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo).

What began as a touching tale of friendship has evolved into a narrative fraught with conflict and discomfort. Elphaba finds herself ostracized as the 'Wicked Witch' after attempting to expose the Wizard's secrets, while Glinda enjoys a life of privilege as the 'Good Witch.'

Glinda's persistent efforts to bring Elphaba back into the Wizard's fold are revealed not out of concern for her friend's safety, but from a fear of her own idyllic world shattering. This self-serving motive inflicts deep, irreparable wounds on Elphaba, straining their bond to its breaking point.

While the tumultuous emotional arcs and drastic plot turns may test the audience's empathy, the stellar performances by Grande and Erivo anchor the film. They skillfully portray the contrasting characters, creating a compelling chemistry that elevates the story. Coupled with the enchanting visuals and rich musical numbers reminiscent of the first installment, the film offers a feast for the eyes and ears.

The movie attempts to weave in elements from 'The Wizard of Oz,' featuring characters like Dorothy, the Tin Man, and the Scarecrow. However, the integration feels somewhat disjointed from the central Glinda-Elphaba storyline. The film runs for 137 minutes with no post-credit scenes.

Netizens praised the performances, with comments like 'Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's acting was truly top-notch!' and 'The story was a bit disappointing, but the visuals and numbers are still classic Wicked.' Some expressed frustration with Glinda's selfishness, stating, 'If she was going to act like that, she shouldn't have stayed by Elphaba's side.'