Glinda (Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) are a splendid duo in “Wicked: For Good.” (photo courtesy of Universal Pictures)

“Wicked: Part One,” the box office smash starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, revealed a world of possibilities for two young women looking for purpose, magic, popularity and belonging.  “Wicked: For Good,” the second act of the blockbuster film, stands on its promise of possibilities and reveals reality. 

Through their journey through Oz, Elphaba and Glinda travel different paths down the Yellow Brick Toad – with Glinda ascending to Oz opulence and Elphaba carving a home alone in the woods with few creature comforts. The green and pink duo weave a story of good versus evil, interchanging their roles and creating an undulating tapestry of friendship, struggle, heartbreak and love.

Glinda pursues her dream of marrying Fiyero, played by “Sexiest Man Alive” Jonathan Bailey, and nearly achieves her princess stature. However, Elphaba discovers the Wizard’s (Jeff Goldblum) evil intentions and disrupts the lavish nuptials, escaping with Fiyero to her lair. 

In “Wicked: For Good,” the set design, as in Part One, is grand and gorgeous, inviting viewers to luxuriate in the scenery and the bountiful florals.  Rich hues saturate the screen with Glinda’s bright pink chambers and the elaborate wizardly workshop.  Costumes are again beautifully appointed, with the swish of a skirt, sparkle of a shoe and detailed coiffures. Glinda reprised a few gowns from the original, with the hot pink tulle nightgown hanging in her closet as a reminder of the sleepover scene from the first film. The wardrobe for Madame Morrible, played by Michelle Yeoh, becomes increasing dark, as does her character. Elphaba has only one slight costume change, from her black Wicked Witch of the West frock into an oversized, grey cable knit sweater for a sizzling scene with Fiyero.

Ultimately “Wicked: For Good” chronicles two strong women who identify terrible wrongs in Oz and a weak “leader” in the Wizard who must be stopped from caging animals and silencing their voices. Goldblum’s cadence and delivery exude charm, however, making the Wizard believable and understandable how one can fall under his spell. The metaphors for society today are palpable. Someone has to be the villain for others to shine –the misunderstood Elphaba who’s “no good deed goes unpunished” plays the Wicked so Glinda can carry the torch For Good. The two form a tight bond, one that is unlikely to be broken because they learned so much from each other – because “I knew you” and they are changed –For Good. 

“Wicked: Part One” carried the rainbows, “what’s possible” mantle whereas “Wicked: For Good” bears the responsibility of telling the real story – with less funny moments, a more serious tone and maybe less “popular” music. It explores relationships and some ugly truths. As Dorothy might say, “some parts were not very nice, but most of it was beautiful.” 

And speaking of Dorothy, the references to the “Wizard of Oz” abound, with Madame Morrible conjuring up a tornado that sweeps through Munchkinland, and a cameo of some iconic striped socks. The house has blue gingham curtains and a young girl walks down the yellow brick road wearing the Wicked Witch of the East’s sparkly shoes. Even the costumes worn by Ozians resemble those in the merry old land.

With a few unresolved plot lines and fate of the characters, the door has been left open for “Wicked” sequels, perhaps with happier endings that will placate the naysayers to this film. 

This holiday season, we all deserve a little hope and some goodness in our lives. I see a hopeful rainbow rising over Oz – one that changes the hearts of good listeners – For Good.