Ariana Grande recently offered a glimpse into what audiences can expect from Wicked: For Good, the second installment of the two-part film adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical. Appearing at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Sunday, February 9, the 31-year-old singer and actress spoke with moderator Dave Karger about how this sequel will delve into deeper themes such as forgiveness, friendship, and the lasting impact of choices made in the first movie.
Grande revealed that while the initial chapter, Wicked: Part One, focuses on key decisions—highlighted by the rift between Glinda (played by Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo)—the sequel will shine a spotlight on what happens as a result of those decisions. She described the follow-up as "quite different," adding, "if movie one is about choices, movie two is about consequences." According to Grande, the upcoming film explores unconditional love in a more substantial way, as the two main characters face both personal and political fallout from their separate paths.
This lines up with earlier remarks from Wicked director Jon M. Chu, who has emphasized how the second movie will span the entire second act of the beloved stage production. Chu noted that if fans connected with the chemistry between Glinda and Elphaba in the first film, they should be prepared for the relationship to reach even greater heights in For Good. The director also mentioned the film's resonant themes, saying how they feel especially relevant in a modern context, pointing to the courage it takes to stand by one's principles and the realization that every major choice carries a price.
Notably, Grande and Erivo—both enjoying critical acclaim for their portrayals in this two-part saga—earned nominations for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on February 23 and for Academy Awards at the 97th Oscars, scheduled for March 2. Grande spoke about the moment she and Erivo discovered their Oscar nominations, recalling how they left each other multiple voice notes brimming with emotion. She mentioned that the two were in completely different locations—Erivo on an airplane and Grande in London—yet they shared in the excitement and gratitude the news inspired.
The first installment, Wicked: Part One, concluded around the powerful number "Defying Gravity," illustrating a heartbreaking split between the two witches. Wicked: For Good will pick up from that emotional juncture, following Glinda's ascent in public favor while Elphaba grapples with being labeled "The Wicked Witch." Together, they eventually navigate a series of life-altering events bound to change them forever. Grande underscored that there will be a strong focus on empathy and compassion, tying into how each of them grows from past mistakes.
Scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 21, Wicked: For Good promises to bring audiences a fresh look at the land of Oz, one layered with themes of friendship and redemption. Between the stunning visuals, the returning cast, and an epic second act that addresses the aftermath of life's biggest choices, fans of Wicked and newcomers alike can expect an emotionally charged conclusion to the two-part film adaptation.