The original title for “Wicked: Part Two,” which is now “Wicked: For Good,” generated a variety of responses on social media upon its unveiling in December. Nevertheless, director Jon M. Chu feels confident that this change in the film’s title has undeniably improved it.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I shared my excitement with EbMaster at the National Board of Review Awards gala in New York City on Tuesday, mentioning my eagerness for ‘Wicked: Part Two’. However, during our conversation, we pondered over its title. The script had always been labeled as ‘For Good’, and it sparked a question: Should this sequel be called ‘Part Two’? After all, nobody fancies that moniker.

The title of the movie is a nod to the second-to-last song from a popular Broadway musical, where Elphaba (portrayed by Cynthia Erivo in the movie version) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) express how their relationship has shaped their lives. As Chu stated, there were no other title options being considered since “For Good” essentially signifies our goal for this film – it’s like saying, “Where are we heading with this movie? Let’s bring this story to a close.

At the National Board of Review Awards ceremony, Chu was honored with the award for Best Director. Alongside him, the cast members Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, and Ethan Slater, as well as producers Marc Platt and David Nicksay, received recognition for the best film. Ryan Reynolds had the privilege of presenting the top honor to the “Wicked” team.

As a lover of cinema, I can’t help but express my admiration for “Wicked” – a musical that doesn’t shy away from its identity. In today’s world where musical films sometimes avoid labeling themselves as such, it’s refreshing to see the honesty. Music, much like words, is a universal language, one crafted by few but felt by countless others. And when it comes to the creator of this enchanting melodic tale, there’s only one Stephen Schwartz.

Just as sports and live theater bring us together, music remains one of the last bastions of shared experiences. This magnificent film serves as a beacon of unity in our increasingly fragmented world. To feel the same emotion at the same moment is an experience that has become rare, but “Wicked” offers just that – a chance to connect with others through the power of its music and story.

The National Board of Review additionally highlighted Erivo and Grande for their innovative partnership by presenting them with the Spotlight Award.

Grande expressed that genuine collaboration involves being honest, humble, and open to others’ thoughts and feelings. It fosters deep trust by consistently demonstrating sincerity and compassion, making space for everyone’s ideas without the need to prove superiority, but rather with a sense of curiosity and admiration,” Grande shared on stage alongside her “Wicked” partner Erivo.

The duo kept pondering over their friendship and creative collaboration, as Erivo put it, “It’s about understanding when one of us requires support and the other needs solitude and tranquility.” At a certain moment, she added, “It’s instinctively recognizing that your co-actor needs your motivation the first time they attempt a stunt. It’s the heartfelt ‘I love you’ message or the spontaneous ‘I’m proud of you’ voicemail.

In my own words, I’d say something like this: “I’m so skilled at pretending that people can’t tell how much dislike simmers between us,” I joked. To that, she playfully replied, “You really had us fooled!

The musical adaptation of “Wicked” now holds the record for the highest domestic box office earnings among Broadway adaptations, surpassing the 1978 version of “Grease” ($188.62 million). It also ranks second globally in stage-to-screen transformations, following closely behind the 2008 release of “Mamma Mia” ($611 million). The film has garnered universal praise from both critics and viewers, leading to a surge of memes, merchandise, and videos showcasing moviegoers having fun during sing-along screenings.

Erivo shared that she hasn’t been able to join the in-cinema sing-alongs yet, but she’s come across some amazing fan-posted videos online. She expressed her desire to secretly attend one because she really wants to, speaking to EbMaster.

“Wicked: For Good” soars into theaters on Nov. 21.

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2025-01-09 03:16