Describing my passion for <em>Wicked</em> might indeed be an understatement. My admiration for this mesmerizing theatrical masterpiece began over two decades ago when I was first captivated by the enchanting performances of Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth through the Original Cast Recording. As a child, I eagerly collected Wicked merchandise and seized every chance to see the show live. Therefore, I was absolutely ecstatic when the much-anticipated film adaptation directed by Jon M. Chu premiered last year. After attending an early screening, I was thoroughly impressed with how the director, alongside writer Winnie Holtzman and composer Stephen Schwartz, successfully adapted the beloved story while adding depth and enriching the existing narrative. As we look forward to the release of Wicked: For Good this holiday season, I hold high hopes that the film will introduce significant changes to the stage show’s plot, particularly regarding its iconic conclusion.

Discover the Final Moments of ‘Wicked’ on Stage

In the process of transforming Gregory Maguire’s thought-provoking and politically charged novel, Wicked: The Life and Time of the Wicked Witch of the West, into a theatrical production, the musical took several creative liberties that have become iconic. One of the most remarkable alterations is the musical’s unique ending. This pivotal moment unfolds just before Dorothy’s fateful act of melting the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of Oz, where the former allies, Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande), share a poignant reunion and perform the heartwarming song, “For Good.” Glinda, witnessing the heartbreaking scene from hiding, resolves to embrace her new identity as “Glinda the Good.” She takes a stand against the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and ensures Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) is held accountable for her wrongdoings in Oz. The most satisfying twist comes when it is revealed that Elphaba has survived and escapes Oz with Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey). Before embarking on their journey to an unknown destination, Elphaba expresses her wish for Glinda to know that they are both alive. With the dream deemed unattainable, Elphaba and Fiyero reprise “For Good,” setting off on a quest for new destinies.

In my view, this resolution for the stage production serves as a perfect conclusion. It pays homage to The Wizard of Oz while providing a more fulfilling closure to its own narrative arc. After an emotionally charged two-and-a-half-hour performance, the ending leads into a vibrant curtain call, leaving the audience with a cathartic experience that resonates deeply. However, while the second act of the show undoubtedly serves as inspiration for Wicked: For Good, it is widely acknowledged that the sequel will need to diverge from the original material, which strongly supports the case for a reimagined finale.

Why ‘Wicked: For Good’ Should Feature a Revamped Ending

The runtime of Wicked: Part One on stage mirrors that of the entire theatrical production, with the first act lasting approximately an hour and a half, followed by a second act of about an hour. A preview presented at CinemaCon has already showcased several changes to the storyline, and the sequel is continuously evolving with additional elements and expansions. Given this context, I believe there is a fantastic opportunity for the film to enhance the original finale, making it more suitable for its cinematic adaptation. The opening segments of Wicked: Part One hinted at fresh developments, including a character riding away from Kiamo Ko. However, considering all the possibilities, I aspire to see even more profound modifications. While it may sound audacious, I would love to see the sequel elevate Elphaba and Glinda’s farewell to a more poignant level. It seems inevitable that Fiyero and Elphaba will exit Oz, especially since the first film introduces the Impassable Desert, a realm that the original Broadway production only briefly references. However, I believe the film’s ending could be significantly stronger if Glinda were to become aware that Elphaba and Fiyero are still alive.

In the stage version, Fiyero tells Glinda that she can never truly know if he and Elphaba seek safety. However, given that the sequel is intended to delve deeper into the dynamics between the two witches, more than the musical’s second act ever could, I genuinely believe that their character arcs could be significantly enhanced if they must consciously decide to part ways forever. This choice would not only heighten the emotional tragedy but also solidify the individual growth of both women. Glinda’s journey toward selflessness is a significant theme in the show, but it takes the assumed death of Elphaba for her to arrive at that point. Seeing Glinda make that choice as a tribute to Elphaba’s dreams after liberating her would be profoundly moving. Similarly, this shift would free Elphaba from the burden of living a facade for the remainder of her life. Ultimately, these films are fundamentally centered around the deep bond shared by these two women. Creating an even more meaningful conclusion would be a beautiful tribute to their respective journeys.