‘Wicked’ Director John M. Chu Defends Sequel’s Polarizing New Name

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One of the most eagerly awaited movies of 2024, currently in production for its second part, is causing a stir. However, director Jon M. Chu faced mixed responses when he unveiled his revised title for the sequel. Originally titled simply “Wicked: Part Two“, the sudden change to “Wicked: For Good” has drawn criticism from fans who feel this new title is unwarranted and inconsistent with the films’ ties to Broadway.

In discussing my choice with Variety at the National Board of Review awards gala recently, I explained that I stood behind my decision to change the title of the sequel. I acknowledged that the original title may have appeared unoriginal, but I believed it was necessary for a fresh start.

Are you excited for the sequel titled “Wicked: Part Two”? There was some debate during scriptwriting about whether to actually label it as “Part Two,” with some questioning if it was truly necessary. It seems the general consensus is that a different title might be more appealing.

The revised title alludes to the second-to-last song from Stephen Schwartz’s Broadway musical, “Wicked.” In this piece, Elphaba and Glinda harmonize about the profound impact their bond has had on their lives. It’s a poignant ballad that foreshadows their separation and seems fitting for naming the second and concluding act of “Wicked.

It seems not everyone is on board with this, but considering the first movie was frequently marketed as “Wicked: Part One” and even bore that title in its opening credits, this sudden shift does appear rather hasty. Some fans also find issue with deviating from the Broadway norm, where separate acts of the same musical are simply referred to as “part one” and “part two”.

As a passionate fan, I can’t help but share my excitement about Chu’s assertion. He contends that “For Good” was indeed the intended title for the sequel all along. In his words, “That’s where we’re headed. ‘For Good,’ we understand, is like saying, ‘Where are we taking this movie? Let’s wrap it up.’

A different spectator remarked, irrespective of its title, that the second act would draw a massive crowd, astutely noting: “Even if they named it ‘Melting the Green Girl: Dorothy’s Revenge’, I’d still be there on the opening night.

Expectations Continue to Rise for Wicked: For Good

Despite various views on the sequel’s fresh title, it’s undeniable that Chu demonstrates his expertise with the musical Wicked. The initial production managed to secure the title of highest-grossing Broadway adaptation of a film, surpassing the beloved 2008 romantic comedy Mamma Mia!

2025’s Golden Globe awards not only honored “Wicked” and its talented cast with a variety of prizes, but also granted them a nomination for Best Motion Picture and a win in the Cinema and Box Office Achievement category. Additionally, Chu was recognized as the Best Director at the National Board of Review Awards ceremony, where he spoke about the controversial title change of “Wicked: For Good”.

The high anticipation for the movie “Wicked: For Good” among fans, given its numerous accolades and record-breaking achievements, is unquestionable. Yet, Chu’s vigorous defense of the sequel’s fresh title suggests a strong indication of the intensity he’s putting into the upcoming production.

Indeed, the second part of “Wicked” has completed filming, allowing for the next few years to focus on post-production work rather than hurrying the final product. Essentially, “Wicked: For Good” aims to live up to both the acclaim of the Broadway musical and the excitement generated by its initial act.

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2025-01-11 01:31