Sunday Special: Wicked, Good?

Overview

This episode delves into the cultural and cinematic impact of Wicked: For Good, the sequel to the blockbuster Wicked. The discussion explores the challenges of adapting the second act of the musical into a standalone film, the performances of its stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and the broader implications for Hollywood during a challenging box office era.

Notable Quotes

- The moments in Wicked for Good that touched me are these intimate little moments between Ariana and Cynthia. That is really the love story this entire franchise is about. — Madison Malone Kircher, on the emotional core of the film.

- If women really like something, they will watch it multiple times. The bounds of their fandom and obsession are ultimately very lucrative. — Kyle Buchanan, on the power of young female audiences.

- I don't know that predicating Elphaba's entire journey on wanting to advocate for animal rights is the strongest or most convincing motivation for a character. — Gilbert Cruz, critiquing the film's narrative focus.

🎭 The Legacy and Adaptation of Wicked

- Wicked: For Good adapts the second act of the musical, which is thinner in plot and songs compared to the first. Madison Malone Kircher notes that the second act primarily serves to tie the story to The Wizard of Oz lore.

- The decision to split the story into two films was initially met with skepticism but allowed for deeper character exploration, particularly Glinda’s arc.

- Kyle Buchanan highlights how the first film felt complete, raising questions about the necessity of the sequel, though it serves as an extended coda for fans.

🎤 Performances and Chemistry

- Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s performances are central to the film’s emotional resonance. Kyle Buchanan emphasizes how Grande’s dramatic material shines in the sequel, while Erivo’s standout moments were in the first film.

- Their real-life chemistry informed key scenes, such as the emotional staging of “For Good.”

- Madison Malone Kircher praises Grande’s ability to telegraph deep emotion, rooted in her personal connection to the musical.

📈 Hollywood’s Struggles and Wicked’s Success

- The film industry faces declining box office numbers, with October 2025 being the lowest-grossing month on record (excluding 2020).

- Kyle Buchanan attributes Wicked’s success to its event-like status and its appeal to young female audiences, who are loyal and drive repeat viewings.

- The franchise’s connection to long-standing IP, from The Wizard of Oz to the Broadway musical, also bolsters its cultural relevance.

🌟 Fandom and Cultural Impact

- Wicked has always resonated with online communities, particularly those who feel “othered.” Madison Malone Kircher notes its roots in fanfiction and its deeply personal appeal to marginalized groups.

- Fans engage through online compilations, such as analyzing riffs or documenting technical mishaps during performances.

- The press tour for Wicked: For Good leaned heavily on its stars’ chemistry, though Madison Malone Kircher critiques the overwhelming marketing as “pink and green noise.”

🎬 The Future of Wicked and Hollywood

- The success of Wicked highlights the untapped potential of content aimed at young women. Kyle Buchanan predicts Hollywood will likely expand the franchise with spin-offs or prequels, such as a standalone Glinda movie.

- The discussion underscores the need for more properties that empower and resonate with female audiences, who remain a key demographic for box office success.