8 Ways ‘Wicked: Part Two’ Will Be Different From the First Movie

The first Wicked movie completely swept audiences off their feet in 2024, bringing the iconic Broadway show to the big screen with stunning visuals and unforgettable performances. Now, all eyes are on Wicked: Part Two, set to hit theaters in November 2025, as it promises to continue the story of Elphaba and Glinda in ways that are bigger, bolder, and totally different from the first film.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the musical or someone who fell in love with the first movie, the second installment is shaping up to be a wild ride. From fresh settings and new songs to deeper character drama, here’s what to expect when the witches of Oz return.

1. Elphaba and Glinda Are Splitting Up

The first movie gave us all the highs and lows of Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship, thanks to them being stuck together at Shiz University. Between their snarky banter, heartfelt bonding moments, and some awkward growing pains, their relationship felt front and center.

In Part Two, though, the two will be leading very separate lives. Elphaba is now on the run, and Glinda is stepping into a high-profile public role. They’ll only share a few scenes, and those moments will be intense—think reconciliation, conflict, and emotional goodbyes. Gone are the carefree dorm days; now it’s all about navigating their very different paths.

2. Shiz University Is Left Behind

Let’s be real: Shiz University was the perfect setting for all the drama and fun of the first movie. It had everything—a magical boarding school vibe, quirky classmates, and iconic moments like Glinda’s ‘Popular’ performance. But as the story moves forward, Shiz is officially in the rearview mirror.

In Part Two, the action shifts to the wider world of Oz. From the Emerald City to Munchkinland to remote hideouts, the story explores new locations, each adding a layer of complexity. Without the structure and comfort of school, the characters are thrown into unpredictable, high-stakes situations, making the sequel darker and more dynamic.

3. Brand-New Songs Are Coming

Here’s something to get excited about: Wicked: Part Two will feature new music from the legendary Stephen Schwartz. He’s written at least two fresh songs for the sequel, and Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) even co-wrote one of them. Rumor has it her song will be another show-stopping ballad—because, let’s face it, Elphaba deserves all the dramatic musical moments.

Considering the first movie already tweaked and expanded the original score in creative ways, these new tracks are bound to hit just as hard. Fans are buzzing to see if they’ll become as iconic as ‘Defying Gravity’ or ‘For Good.’

4. Nessarose and Boq Take a Dark Turn

Sure, the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) are still the main villains, but Nessarose and Boq will also step into more sinister roles in the sequel. Nessarose, Elphaba’s sister, becomes the Wicked Witch of the East, while Boq transforms into the Tin Man—and neither of their arcs is pretty.

Fueled by unrequited love and personal frustration, both characters make decisions that push them closer to the dark side. Nessarose’s obsessive control over Munchkinland and Boq’s eventual betrayal of Elphaba make for some seriously dramatic plot twists.

5. Fiyero Gets His Moment to Shine

In the first movie, Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey) was the charming, carefree guy who mostly went with the flow. That all changes in Part Two. As the Captain of the Guard, Fiyero uses his position to protect Elphaba while secretly working against the Wizard’s agenda.

He also has a major romantic moment, confessing his love for Elphaba and standing by her even when it puts him in danger. His character’s growth adds emotional weight to the story, making him a central figure in the sequel.

6. Fewer Big Musical Numbers

One of the highlights of the first movie was its larger-than-life ensemble numbers like ‘Dancing Through Life’ and ‘One Short Day.’ Director Jon M. Chu nailed those scenes, making them visually spectacular. Unfortunately, the sequel doesn’t have as many opportunities for big group songs.

Most of the musical moments in Part Two are more intimate and character-driven. While songs like ‘Thank Goodness’ and ‘March of the Witch Hunters’ will still pack a punch, they’re not on the same scale as the high-energy numbers from the first film.

7. It’s Catching Up to ‘The Wizard of Oz’

While Wicked: Part One focused on backstory, Part Two starts overlapping with The Wizard of Oz. Dorothy’s arrival in Oz kicks off a series of events that lead to the fates of Nessarose and Elphaba, bringing the story full circle.

This means the sequel will feel less like a prequel and more like a reimagining of the classic Oz tale. You’ll see familiar events from a new perspective, adding layers of complexity to the story you thought you knew.

8. Dorothy Finally Makes an Appearance

Unlike the stage version, where Dorothy is more of an off-screen presence, the sequel gives her a proper role. The trailers have teased her involvement, but her face hasn’t been revealed, and we still don’t know who’s playing her.

Dorothy’s presence could shake things up in exciting ways. While she’s traditionally seen as a symbol of innocence, her interactions with Elphaba might explore deeper themes of morality and misunderstanding. Fans are eager to see how this iconic character fits into Wicked’s world.

The Bottom Line

Wicked: Part Two isn’t just a continuation—it’s a full-blown evolution of the story. With new songs, deeper character arcs, and connections to The Wizard of Oz, it’s shaping up to be just as magical as the first movie, if not more. Whether you’re here for the music, the drama, or just another dose of Oz, this sequel promises to deliver. November 2025 can’t come soon enough!