Universal Pictures thrilled fans by unveiling the first teaser for Wicked: For Good, the highly anticipated sequel to the film Wicked, which adapts the acclaimed Broadway musical. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the movie is slated for release on November 20, 2025, in Brazilian theaters. The teaser, debuted at CinemaCon 2025, features gripping scenes and promises an epic conclusion to the story of the witches of Oz. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film picks up from the events of the first installment, released in November 2024, and dives deeper into the magical universe of The Wizard of Oz. With a stellar cast, including Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum, the production has already sparked immense excitement among musical and movie fans alike.
The teaser announcement came with a long-awaited release date. Universal Pictures confirmed the global premiere for November 21, 2025, with Brazil getting the film a day earlier. The decision to split the adaptation into two parts allows for a richer exploration of the narrative, focusing on Elphaba and Glinda’s journey.
Here are some early highlights of the production:
- Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande reprise their roles as Elphaba and Glinda.
- The teaser showcases action, with windows shattering and Elphaba flying with winged monkeys.
- Jon M. Chu returns as director, preserving the visual essence of the first film.
- The release aligns with other major 2025 cinematic launches.
First glimpse of Wicked: For Good
Universal Pictures stunned audiences at CinemaCon 2025, held in April, by presenting the first teaser for Wicked: For Good. The preview, not yet released online, opens with a dramatic scene of windows breaking in the Emerald City as Glinda, played by Ariana Grande, calls out, “Elphaba, I know you’re there… Come out before the monkeys find you.” The sequence escalates with Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo, declaring, “I’m going to see the Wizard,” while soaring through the sky, chased by winged monkeys. The teaser closes with the film’s title, leaving attendees eager for more.
The studio also revealed that the full trailer will debut during special screenings of the first film, set for a theatrical re-release on June 4, 2025. This move aims to reignite fan interest and build momentum for the sequel, which promises to heighten the stakes and drama between the leads.
Star-studded cast raises anticipation
Wicked: For Good boasts an impressive lineup, positioning it as one of 2025’s most awaited releases. Cynthia Erivo, lauded for her powerful role in The Color Purple, returns as Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West. Ariana Grande, a standout as Glinda in the first film, brings her signature voice and charm to the sequel. The cast also features:
- Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, a pivotal figure in the story.
- Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, the prince entwined with the protagonists.
- Jeff Goldblum, cast as the enigmatic Wizard of Oz.
- Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, and Bronwyn James in key supporting roles.
This blend of seasoned and emerging talent promises standout performances, with the chemistry between Erivo and Grande a major draw for fans.
Direction and production uphold quality
Jon M. Chu, acclaimed for films like Crazy Rich Asians, directs Wicked: For Good, ensuring continuity in the visual and narrative style that captivated audiences in the first installment. Chu collaborates with screenwriter Winnie Holzman, who penned the original Broadway musical’s book. Marc Platt, a veteran of stage-to-screen adaptations, oversees production.
The technical team shines, with Nathan Crowley handling production design, crafting grand settings like the Emerald City and the yellow brick road. Stephen Schwartz’s score features classic songs from the musical, such as “For Good,” plus two new tracks exclusive to the film, poised to move audiences.
Elphaba and Glinda’s journey takes center stage
Wicked: For Good picks up where the first film left off, delving into the evolving bond between Elphaba and Glinda. The two met at Shiz University, where clashing personalities and a shared love interest, Fiyero, tested their friendship. Glinda is drawn to power and popularity, while Elphaba fights to stay true to herself and those around her. The teaser hints at deeper conflict, with Elphaba confronting the Wizard of Oz and evading winged monkeys.
The story serves as a prequel to The Wizard of Oz, reimagining the witches’ origins. Quick teaser shots reveal the iconic yellow brick road and Glinda in her classic gown, with “The Wizard Lies” written in the clouds. Elphaba’s resolve peaks as she proclaims, “I’m going after the Wizard!”
Launch strategy and re-release plan
Universal Pictures has crafted a bold rollout for Wicked: For Good. The film premieres on November 20, 2025, in Brazil, a day ahead of the global release on November 21. This timing positions it as a key contender among late-2025 blockbusters.
To heighten anticipation, the original Wicked film will return to theaters on June 4, 2025, paired with the full trailer for the sequel. This approach targets both longtime musical fans and new viewers, capitalizing on the first film’s success, which grossed over $520 million worldwide.
Fan reactions heat up online
The teaser’s debut at CinemaCon 2025 sparked a wave of excitement among fans. Social media buzzed with praise for the glimpse of Elphaba and Glinda, with the shattered windows and suspenseful music earning special attention. The tagline “The countdown begins. In six months, return to Oz” fuels official posts, stoking curiosity. The wait for the full trailer in June keeps enthusiasm high, with fans eager to see how the witches’ saga concludes.
The vocal harmony and chemistry of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande remain a focal point, with audiences anticipating their take on the musical’s beloved songs. The return to Oz has viewers primed for a magical experience.
Ties to the Broadway musical
Wicked: For Good is the second half of the Broadway musical adaptation, which debuted in 2003 and was based on Gregory Maguire’s novel. The stage show, a box-office record-breaker in cities like New York, the UK, and Brazil, reimagines The Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspective. It explores themes of friendship, identity, and power, with Elphaba and Glinda at its core.
The film stays true to the musical, with songs like “Defying Gravity” and “Popular” brought to life by Erivo and Grande. Two new songs, confirmed by Jon M. Chu, add a fresh twist, promising to surprise even die-hard fans of the original.
Gearing up for a grand experience
Wicked: For Good invests in stunning sets and cutting-edge visuals. The Emerald City, yellow brick road, and Elphaba’s hideout, surrounded by “wanted” posters, stand out in the teaser. Jeff Goldblum’s Wizard of Oz introduces a mysterious new machine, hinting at plot twists.
Jon M. Chu’s direction ensures a visually dazzling ride, with costumes and sets that capture Oz’s magic. The film aims to deliver a grand finale, honoring the legacy of both the musical and the 1939 classic, The Wizard of Oz.
News summary
Wicked: For Good, the sequel to Wicked, debuted its first teaser at CinemaCon 2025, with a release set for November 20, 2025, in Brazil. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the Jon M. Chu-directed film promises an epic close to the witches’ tale. The teaser shows windows shattering, Elphaba flying, and the Wizard, played by Jeff Goldblum, with a new machine. Universal Pictures will re-release the first film on June 4, 2025, with the full sequel trailer. Featuring Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and more, the production adapts the Broadway musical, tracing Elphaba and Glinda’s bond and struggles.
