Will “Wicked” Finally Claim the Oscars?
Universal Pictures’ sequel to the beloved musical fantasy is seemingly set to either match or surpass its predecessor’s notable success at the Academy Awards, following enthusiastic responses shared on social media.
About the Film
Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked: For Good continues the narrative initiated in 2024’s Wicked, which adapted the first act of the acclaimed Broadway musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman. This sequel delves into the consequences of Elphaba and Glinda’s separate journeys—one becoming the notorious Wicked Witch of the West, while the other assumes the role of the cherished Glinda the Good.
Oscar Contender
The film’s prospects in the Oscar race seem strong enough to replicate last year’s ten nominations, establishing the two-part adaptation as a notable awards contender, bolstered by fervent initial reactions.
Critical Acclaim
Deadline’s Destiny Jackson lauded the film on X, calling it “an epic and heartbreakingly tender conclusion” to Chu’s whimsical saga.
She remarked: “All Good Deeds Go Rewarded in Wicked: For Good. There’s a lot for Broadway fans to cherish, complete with delightful surprises.”
Performance Highlights
Jazz Tangcay from Variety echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Chu’s directing prowess and the expanded stories of Elphaba and Glinda, which culminate in a poignant finale. Both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s performances have been particularly commended for their depth and emotional impact.
Potential Nominations
If both actresses receive nominations for their portrayals, they could become the seventh and eighth actors in Oscar history to achieve multiple nominations for the same role. Erivo, having already made her mark with the first installment, is also noted as a frontrunner for awards recognition.
Musical Composition
Featuring a combination of cherished tracks from the original stage musical and two new songs, Wicked: For Good aims to engage both fans and critics alike. Although the addition of new songs can be polarizing, the revered nature of Schwartz’s work may open doors for recognition within the music categories.
As the anticipation builds, “Wicked: For Good” appears to be poised for success, with the ongoing awards season soon to reveal its fate among Oscar voters.
