‘Wicked’ Left Us Spellbound, But It’s Not Over Yet—Here’s A Look At The Magic Ahead In The Thrilling Second Chapter

What’s better than one Wicked movie? Two! The beloved Broadway sensation, the Witches of Oz, has officially leaped off the stage and onto the silver screen.

Fans were dazzled by the release of Wicked: Part One on November 22, 2024. Now, director Jon M. Chu and his creative team have given audiences the ultimate tease by splitting the beloved Broadway adaptation into two parts. 

This basically leaves us hanging just as the story reaches its most dramatic high note (literally). Everyone’s already abuzz with excitement—and a little impatience—for the sequel, Wicked: Part Two. 

But why the divide? As Chu put it, squeezing all of Wicked’s magic into a single movie would have required “cutting songs or trimming characters.” And really, what’s Wicked without its iconic songs? (Defying Gravity fans, we’re looking at you.) 

Musicals often get trimmed down for runtime, but the team wanted to preserve every spellbinding moment. And let’s face it, who could bear to see Wicked without its iconic songs or layered character arcs? After all, this isn’t just any adaptation—it’s a cinematic ode to one of Broadway’s most cherished tales.

So, what can we expect from the second installment? Here’s everything you need to know about the next chapter in this enchanting tale. Fair warning, Wicked: Part One spoilers up ahead!

Ariana Grande stuns as Glinda, ready to enchant the entire Land of Oz

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Screenwriter Winnie Holzman shared in November 2024 that splitting Wicked into two films came after “long conversations” with the team. They agreed the story was too expansive for one movie.

Practical Insights for Fans

In preparing for the next installment of Wicked, it’s valuable for fans to engage deeply with the themes presented in Part One. Life coach James Clear suggests that reflecting on personal values can help viewers connect more meaningfully with narratives.

He recommends journaling about what aspects of the story resonate most and why. This practice not only deepens personal insight but also enhances the viewing experience when Part Two releases.

Furthermore, participating in discussions or fan forums can broaden perspectives, offering new interpretations and enriching the overall experience as fans await the film's continuation.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande bring Elphaba and Glinda's magical friendship to life

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The number Defying Gravity also played a key role in the decision. “That song is written specifically to bring a curtain down,” Holzman told The Schwartz Scene, explaining that anything following it without a break felt flat.

The golden hour adds an extra layer of enchantment to our two favorite witches

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The Power of Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool in theater and film, as noted by The National Storytelling Network. It enhances emotional connection and audience engagement, crucial elements for the success of any adaptation.

According to acclaimed author Elizabeth Gilbert, stories help us make sense of our experiences and invite empathy. In the case of Wicked, the character arcs and relationships allow viewers to explore themes of friendship, love, and betrayal in unique ways.

As we anticipate Wicked: Part Two, understanding how storytelling shapes our emotional responses can enhance our viewing experience.

The movie picks up where Part One leaves off, with Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) soaring to Defying Gravity and stepping fully into her misunderstood role as the Wicked Witch of the West.  

This dramatic conclusion to the first film mirrors the Broadway show’s Act 1 finale, creating a natural stopping point that demanded its own second act.

The star-studded cast of Wicked dazzles at the Los Angeles premiere

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The sequel promises to delve deeper into Elphaba and Glinda’s (Ariana Grande) evolving friendship, now strained by opposing ideologies and circumstances. 

Fans will also witness Glinda’s transformation into the “Good Witch,” as hinted at by producer Marc Platt, who described the sequel as exploring how Glinda becomes “authentically good.”

Director Jon M. Chu Works His Magic with Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda) on the Set of Wicked.

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While much of the cast from Part One is expected to return, including Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum, details about other Act 2 characters and plot twists remain under wraps.

Director Chu has hinted at the presence of Dorothy Gale, a character whose role is very significant in the second part. Without spoiling too much, her arrival promises to bring the familiar Wizard of Oz storyline into sharper focus—but this time, through Elphaba’s unique lens.

A sneak peek of the iconic Emerald City—just as breathtaking as you imagined

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As we dive deeper into the story of Wicked, it’s essential to recognize the emotional depth of the characters. Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, emphasizes the significance of understanding complex emotional narratives in storytelling.

Her research shows that characters who evoke empathy can lead to greater audience investment and connection, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative. By focusing on character development, the filmmakers can create a more immersive experience that resonates with viewers on various levels.

To make the most of the anticipation, fans can engage in discussions about character motivations and transformations, enriching their understanding of the story.

Filming for both parts wrapped earlier this year, with Cynthia Erivo sharing a heartfelt goodbye to her role as Elphaba on Instagram.

Now, as fans bask in the magic of Part One, anticipation for the second part is building faster than a tornado in Kansas. Sadly, Wicked: Part Two won’t hit theaters until November 21, 2025.

The wait may be long, but with the promise of untold drama, jaw-dropping songs, and a deeper dive into Oz’s most misunderstood characters, it’s bound to be worth it.

Professional Assessment & Guidance

As we look forward to Wicked: Part Two, it's crucial to reflect on the themes and character arcs explored in the first part. Engaging with expert insights, such as those from Elizabeth Gilbert and James Clear, can enhance our appreciation of the story's emotional depth and significance.

By actively participating in discussions and personal reflections, fans can deepen their connection to the narrative, making the wait for Part Two not just a pause but an opportunity for growth and understanding.