The Ben Shapiro Show Ben Shapiro Reviews "Wicked: For Good"
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Nov 22, 2025 Get ready for a sharp critique of the film adaptation of a beloved musical! The two-act structure is under scrutiny, with Act II feeling like filler. Ben highlights plot holes and argues for a single film format to improve pacing. While he praises Ariana Grande's performance, he finds the new songs disappointing. Visuals get mixed reviews, and the final number almost redeems it, despite some heavy-handed direction. Overall, it’s a solid effort but misses the mark in execution and thematic depth.
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Why Many Musicals Feel Lopsided
- Musicals often pack most plot and hits into Act I, leaving Act II thin and filler-heavy.
- That structural mismatch explains why many stage-to-screen adaptations feel lopsided.
Splitting A Musical Can Expose Weaknesses
- Adapting a two-act stage musical into two feature films can magnify weak second-act material.
- Condensing and restructuring for film often produces a tighter, more coherent story.
Character Focus Changes The Movie's Tone
- The film shifts focus from Elphaba to Galinda, which changes the emotional weight and vocal demands.
- That shift benefits Ariana Grande's acting but limits Cynthia Erivo's showier vocal strengths.