The Misfire of ‘Wicked: For Good’ – A Musical Legacy Overshadowed by Better Offerings

The arrival of John M. Chu’s “Wicked: For Good” on Netflix has been met with a lukewarm reception, to put it mildly. While the movie adaptation of the Broadway musical has its moments, it pales in comparison to other musicals available on the streaming platform.

The Broadway Legacy Overshadowed by Better Adaptations

The original “Wicked,” which boasts an impressive 88% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, features some of the most iconic songs in musical theater history. However, the spin-off “For Good” struggles to match its predecessor’s critical acclaim, garnering a mere 66%. This disparity is not surprising, given that “Wicked” has a distinct advantage: it’s the original, with all the momentum and cultural cache that comes with being a pioneering work.

The Case for ‘Merrily We Roll Along’

In contrast, Maria Friedman’s 2025 revival of “Merrily We Roll Along,” currently available on Netflix, is a masterclass in musical storytelling. With a star-studded cast featuring Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez, this production has won four Tony Awards for its poignant portrayal of three friends navigating the ups and downs of relationships over decades. As a testament to Stephen Sondheim’s genius, “Merrily We Roll Along” is a must-watch for any musical theater enthusiast.

‘Matilda: The Musical’ – A Dark Horse

A more recent addition to Netflix’s musical lineup is the 2022 adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved classic, “Matilda.” Directed by Matthew Warchus, this production boasts an energetic score by Tim Minchin and a talented cast, including Alisha Weir as the precocious Matilda. While it may not have received as much critical acclaim as some other musicals on the platform, “Matilda: The Musical” has won over audiences with its dark humor, catchy songs, and a narrative that’s both empowering and heartbreaking.

The Forgotten Gem of ‘The Portrait’

There’s also “The Portrait,” a 2017 Netflix original movie that deserves far more attention than it receives. This sweeping musical drama is set in the Philippines during World War II and follows two sisters as they navigate love, loss, and family dynamics amidst the turmoil of war. With its meticulous production design and polished technical craftsmanship, “The Portrait” is a true masterpiece of movie musicals.

What’s Next for Movie Musicals?

As we move forward into an uncertain future for the genre, one thing is clear: Netflix has become the go-to destination for movie musical lovers. While “Wicked: For Good” may not be the standout hit its predecessor was, these three superior options on the platform show that there’s still life left in this genre. As we eagerly await new releases and adaptations, it remains to be seen whether they’ll manage to reclaim their former glory.

The arrival of “Wicked: For Good” on Netflix has been a reminder that even the most iconic musicals can fall short when adapted for the screen. However, with superior offerings like “Merrily We Roll Along,” “Matilda: The Musical,” and “The Portrait” vying for our attention, there’s never been a better time to be a fan of movie musicals – or at least, to appreciate their inherent value as cultural touchstones.