While 2025 saw its share of cinematic letdowns, from superhero misfires to anticipated comebacks that didn't quite land, one film's journey from awards season disappointment to streaming triumph is a story worth singing about. The musical sequel Wicked: For Good, which arrived in theaters with high expectations, is now finding its true calling at home.
The film, which serves as the second part of the adaptation of the beloved Broadway phenomenon, was notably absent from the Academy Awards, receiving zero nominations. This was a stark contrast to the first film's impressive haul. For many fans of the initial installment, the sequel starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande didn't quite capture the same magic, a sentiment that oddly aligns with some critiques of the stage production's second act.
However, to label it a total failure would be misleading. Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked: For Good proved it still had a powerful box office pull. Produced with a substantial budget, the film conjured over half a billion dollars globally during its theatrical run. But the real magic seems to be happening now, months later, as the film has officially soared to the number one spot on Peacock's streaming charts in the United States.
This streaming success story highlights a modern trend where films can discover a massive second life and new audience on digital platforms, long after the theater lights dim. It's a path familiar to other franchises, like how the Saw franchise defied horror's sequel curse and evolved on Netflix.
Critical Reception: A Defiantly Enthusiastic Review
Not every critic was ready to write off Glinda and Elphaba's continuing story. Among the mixed reviews, Collider's Therese Lacson emerged as a fervent defender. In her review, she awarded the film a strong score, praising it as a loyal adaptation that builds upon the strengths of the first movie. She highlighted the more mature and nuanced character development, calling it a worthy successor that does justice to the iconic musical when viewed as a complete double feature.
This divide between its awards snub, fan reception, and current streaming dominance makes Wicked: For Good one of 2025's most fascinating cinematic case studies. It demonstrates that a film's legacy isn't always written at the box office or the Oscars, but can be forged in the living rooms of subscribers. The film's performance suggests a strong, enduring fanbase eager to revisit the world of Oz, similar to how classic films find new life on streaming platforms years later.
The success of such a high-profile sequel on a streaming service also signals a shifting landscape for major studio releases. As audiences increasingly consume content at home, a robust streaming performance can redefine what "success" means for a film, especially one that may have been judged against unrealistic pre-release hype.
Wicked: For Good is currently available to stream exclusively on Peacock. Its chart-topping run proves that sometimes, a story's final note can be its most triumphant, even if it arrives on a different stage than expected.
