Issues, Etc. The Movie “Wicked: For Good” – Pr. Ted Giese, 11/26/25 (3302)
Nov 26, 2025
Pastor Ted Giese, a Lutheran pastor and arts commentator from Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, dives into the film "Wicked: For Good." He discusses how the sequel's complex plot hinges on the first film, recommending viewers rewatch it for clarity. Ted explores the enduring nature of the Oz story, cultural motives behind character inversions, and the deeper themes of lies and truth in the narrative. He also raises concerns about the portrayal of witchcraft and its potential influence on youth. A thought-provoking take on a beloved franchise!
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Episode notes
Familiar Oz Elements Get Rewritten
- The Wicked films remake familiar Oz elements into a postmodern backstory that rewrites earlier meanings.
- Pastor Ted Giese explains the movies retell character origins to invert what audiences originally believed.
See Part One First
- Rewatch the first film or refresh yourself on the musical before seeing part two to avoid confusion.
- Pastor Ted Giese recommends listening to his previous review for background context.
Thanksgiving TV Cemented Oz Popularity
- Giese recalls the 1939 Wizard of Oz's rise to fame through annual Thanksgiving TV airings.
- He notes modern releases time new Oz films around the same holiday to tap that audience memory.
