The musical film Wicked: For Good has debuted with impressive box office earnings, amassing nearly $270 million in the United States since its release in November. According to Box Office Mojo, these figures suggest the sequel may outperform the original Wicked, which was a significant success in 2024. As the film continues to gain traction, attention also turns to its soundtrack, which seems poised to achieve comparable success.
The soundtrack has made a notable entrance on the Billboard 200, debuting at No. 2 with 122,000 first-week equivalent album units. This figure is slightly below the original soundtrack’s debut of 139,000 units. Despite the minor drop, the sequel’s performance aligns with expectations, as it has already secured four songs on the Hot 100, including the duet “For Good” featuring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande at No. 43.
Critics and industry observers have weighed in on whether the new soundtrack will surpass its predecessor. Billboard staffers discussed their expectations based on initial sales. Hannah Dailey noted that while the numbers may be slightly higher than anticipated, they still reflect a typical trend where the first installment of a franchise generally performs better than its sequel. Stephen Daw echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the first soundtrack contains many beloved songs, making a similar performance for the sequel a positive outcome.
The addition of two new songs, “No Place Like Home” and “The Girl in the Bubble,” has generated considerable discussion among fans and critics alike. While some believe these tracks enhance the storyline, others argue they lack the impact of the original compositions. Dailey expressed that while the new songs provide insight into the characters, they do not reach the lyrical or musical heights of the original score. Daw added that although the new songs serve a purpose in the film, they might not resonate with long-time fans as favorites.
The song “For Good,” performed by Erivo and Grande, has been highlighted as a standout track. Critics have praised the duo’s performance but remain skeptical about its longevity on the charts. Dailey anticipates a trajectory similar to that of “Defying Gravity,” which peaked at No. 44 and had a ten-week run on the Hot 100. Others, like Joe Lynch, believe the cinematic interpretation of “For Good” will likely remain significant within the fandom but may not achieve an extended chart presence.
Despite concerns regarding the film’s structure, particularly its two-part release, many agree that Wicked: For Good has effectively translated the musical’s narrative and characters. Critics have acknowledged that while the first act remains stronger, the film’s adaptation of the second act has merit. Andrew Unterberger, who approached the story with little prior knowledge of the musical, found the quality of the new songs less impactful than expected.
As awards season approaches, the performances of Erivo and Grande are under scrutiny. Both actresses received nominations for their roles in the first part of the film, and many speculate they may be recognized again. Dailey expressed that if neither receives an Oscar nomination this year, it would be surprising, given their substantial performances. Critics have noted that the emotional depth of the script in For Good offers both actresses more opportunities to shine, increasing their chances for recognition.
In conclusion, Wicked: For Good not only captivates audiences with its box office success but also raises questions about the lasting impact of its soundtrack. As the film continues to draw viewers, the ongoing discourse surrounding its music and performances highlights the evolving legacy of this beloved franchise.
