Acclaimed director Jon M. Chu addresses the controversy surrounding the recent title change for the much-anticipated Wicked sequel, questioning the appeal of a film titled Wicked: Part Two. With a focus on enhancing the film’s identity, he emphasizes the importance of a title that resonates more deeply with its narrative.

The eagerly awaited Wicked sequel has recently adopted a new title, Wicked: For Good. While reactions among fans have varied, director Jon M. Chu has been vocal in defending this choice, asserting that it was part of the creative vision from the start. The shift aims to encapsulate the film’s core themes and provide a sense of closure and purpose.

In an interview with Variety, Chu articulated, “Who wants a movie called ‘Wicked: Part Two’?” He explained that the original script always included the phrase ‘For Good’ and highlighted the importance of avoiding generic titles. “This is our destination. ‘For Good’ signifies our journey and where we are heading with this movie.” Chu’s commitment to a meaningful title reflects a thoughtful approach to storytelling.

The new title draws inspiration from one of the musical’s beloved songs, which features a poignant duet between Elphaba and Glinda near the story’s climax. This choice not only resonates with fans of the original musical but also reinforces the emotional stakes of the sequel.

Jonathan Bailey, who portrays Fiyero in the sequel, recently hinted that the follow-up will present a more intricate narrative. He expressed, “Now that we have a clearer understanding of the world we’ve created,” Bailey stated. “I’m thrilled about the tonal shift. The story deepens, becoming heavier and more complex, yet it retains that heartbeat of hope, joy, and resilience that defines Elphaba’s journey.” This anticipation suggests an exciting evolution within the beloved franchise.

Currently, Wicked continues to enchant audiences in theaters. Despite not being an avid fan of Broadway musicals, our own Chris Bumbray found much to appreciate in this adaptation. “While I acknowledge there were moments where I felt lost in some in-jokes aimed at die-hard fans of the play, overall, I enjoyed Jon M. Chu’s Wicked – Part I,” Bumbray noted. “It stands out as one of the most engaging modern takes on The Wizard of Oz, far surpassing Sam Raimi’s often overlooked Oz: The Great and Powerful. Chu clearly has a talent for bringing musicals to life, and with Universal investing significantly in this project, it has the potential to reach audiences beyond just Broadway enthusiasts.” Readers can find more of his insights in the full review.

Mark your calendars, as Wicked: For Good is set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025, promising a magical cinematic experience for fans old and new.