Universal Pictures’ musical fantasy sequel, “Wicked: For Good,” is generating significant Oscar buzz, with initial social media reactions suggesting it is poised to match or even exceed the impressive Academy Award showing of its predecessor. Directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, this film adapts the second act of the hit 2003 Broadway musical by Stephen Schwartz and Holzman, continuing the narrative of Elphaba and Glinda’s divergent paths as the infamous Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good, respectively.

Early reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with critics like Deadline’s Destiny Jackson calling it “an epic and heartbreakingly tender conclusion” and Variety’s Jazz Tangcay praising Chu’s genius in bringing the story to a close. Tangcay highlighted the emotional impact, stellar world-building, costumes, Alice Brooks’ cinematography, and the standout performances. Vanity Fair’s Chris Murphy noted that the film “expands and deepens the original source material in generally exciting and innovative ways,” while entertainment writer David Gordon described it as “everything you want it to be,” taking the stage play’s vision to new dazzling heights.

The film’s Oscar prospects appear robust, potentially securing nominations across various categories. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who portray Elphaba and Glinda, are receiving particular acclaim. Should both be nominated again for the same roles, they would join a very exclusive list of performers in Oscars history. Erivo, already a multi-nominated Black woman in Oscar history, is considered a frontrunner for lead actress in a comedy or musical, while Grande’s performance is seen as a “fully realized piece of acting” that balances humor, heartbreak, and charisma, positioning her as a legitimate contender for her first Academy Award in the supporting actress race.

While some self-proclaimed “Wicked” experts often find the stage show’s second act less potent than the first due to the absence of a showstopper like “Defying Gravity,” Chu, along with writers Holzman and Fox, is credited with elevating the material in the film, particularly during the incredibly emotional rendition of “For Good.” This moment is noted as a decisive acting highlight for both women, solidifying their Oscar candidacies.

“Wicked: For Good” also features a mix of beloved songs from the original musical and two new original numbers penned by Stephen Schwartz: “No Place Like Home,” sung by Erivo’s Elphaba, and “The Girl in the Bubble,” performed by Grande’s Glinda. Despite the challenge new songs face in beloved adaptations, Schwartz’s legendary status within the Music Branch is expected to work in the film’s favor, with “The Girl in the Bubble” being a strong contender for a nomination.

Beyond acting and music, the film is expected to be a strong contender in several technical categories. Production design, costume design (a previously winning category), makeup, sound, and visual effects are considered viable for recognition. With its widespread acclaim and technical prowess, “Wicked: For Good” is a strong candidate for one of the ten Best Picture slots, ensuring that the “Wicked” phenomenon continues to cast its spell on Academy Award voters.