The highly anticipated cinematic sequel, Wicked: For Good, has now officially landed in UK cinemas, bringing the second half of the beloved musical saga to the big screen. This new release continues the story of Elphaba and Glinda, but fans will notice a significant difference in its duration compared to the stage production.
How Long is the Wicked: For Good Film?
The running time for Wicked: For Good is 2 hours and 17 minutes. This represents a notable expansion from the original stage act it is based upon. While the film remains faithful to the core of the Broadway show, it has been enriched with additional material crafted specifically for cinema audiences.
These cinematic extras include new songs, a wedding sequence, and flashback scenes that delve deeper into the characters' histories. Interestingly, this second instalment is shorter than its predecessor; the first Wicked film had a substantial runtime of 2 hours and 40 minutes.
A Surprising Conclusion and a Glimmer of Hope
The finale of Wicked: For Good delivers an unexpected twist that has captivated audiences. Drawing major parallels to The Wizard of Oz, the film's conclusion sees Elphaba finding love with Fiyero as the two decide to flee Oz together.
In a poignant moment, Glinda is led to believe that both of her friends have perished. As Elphaba makes her escape, she reflects, "I wish Glinda could know we're alive, but she can't. No one can ever know." This deception sets the stage for Glinda to subsequently ascend as the ruler of Oz.
However, the film cleverly hints that Glinda may eventually discover the truth that Elphaba is still alive. This tantalising possibility has sparked widespread speculation and hope among fans that a third movie could be developed to continue the story.
Is There a Post-Credits Scene?
For those patiently waiting through the credits, it is confirmed that there is no end credit scene in Wicked: For Good. The absence of this now-common cinematic teaser leaves the future of the franchise deliberately ambiguous.
While studio executives have made no official confirmation of a third film, the open-ended nature of the sequel's conclusion has convinced many devotees that the door is firmly open for another chapter. The narrative potential, coupled with the film's strong performance, suggests that the story of Oz may not be over yet.
Starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, Wicked: For Good is the second part of the two-film adaptation, following the release of the first movie last year. It explores the complex and unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, set in the time before Dorothy's arrival in Oz. The film is available to watch in cinemas across the UK now.
