Wicked: For Good (2025), the highly anticipated sequel to the 2024 film adaptation of the Broadway musical Wicked, is set to release on November 21, 2025. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film continues the story of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande), exploring the darker and more emotional second act of the musical. With a production budget of $150 million, the film is a major investment by Universal Pictures, reflecting its commitment to delivering a visually stunning and musically rich experience.
The budget was allocated to large-scale practical sets, including a real Yellow Brick Road and nine million tulips planted for the Munchkinland scenes, as well as cutting-edge visual effects by Industrial Light & Magic and Framestore. The film also features an expanded orchestra of 125 musicians and two new songs by Stephen Schwartz, ensuring a grand cinematic experience.
The first installment of Wicked (2024) was a massive success, grossing over $800 million worldwide and receiving critical acclaim for its faithful adaptation, breathtaking visuals, and standout performances by Erivo and Grande. It also became an awards season favorite, with nominations expected for Best Picture and other major categories. This success has set high expectations for Wicked: For Good, which is poised to replicate or even surpass the achievements of its predecessor. The decision to split the adaptation into two parts allowed the filmmakers to delve deeper into the characters and story, a move that has been praised by fans and critics alike.
The Wicked franchise has already cemented its place as a cultural phenomenon, with the first film breaking records for musical adaptations and reigniting interest in the Broadway show. Wicked: For Good is expected to continue this legacy, offering a more mature and nuanced exploration of the themes of friendship, power, and sacrifice. With its star-studded cast, iconic music, and Universal’s robust marketing strategy, the film is positioned to dominate the Thanksgiving box office and become another milestone in musical cinema history. Fans eagerly await the continuation of this magical journey in the Land of Oz.
