Wicked: For Good finally arrives in cinemas today (November 21), bringing the second instalment of the film adaptation based on the phenomenally successful stage musical.

Audiences have been keenly anticipating the follow-up after part one (Wicked) premiered last year, featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.

Upon its initial release, the adaptation was hailed as “incredible” by audiences as it chronicles the tale of the misunderstood Elphaba, who develops an unexpected bond with Glinda.

Set before the events of The Wizard of Oz film, each Wicked instalment represents one act from the enormously popular theatrical production, with the latest chapter now arriving.

Nevertheless, the narrative isn’t strictly a prequel to the original The Wizard of Oz, given that the recent films are produced by Universal, though audiences will undoubtedly spot certain familiar elements. 

With anticipation building for Wicked: For Good, we’ve revisited one memorable scene from the land of Oz.

Indeed, the Wicked Witch does meet her end in The Wizard of Oz film from 1939. Audiences will recall that initially, the Wicked Witch of the East perished when Dorothy’s house crashed down upon her after a tornado, triggering the subsequent events.

The Wicked Witch of the West soon emerges (the green witch identified as Elphaba), enraged by her sister’s death.

In The Wizard of Oz, the Wicked Witch of the West also perishes after Dorothy throws water on her.

In the original story, her allergy causes her to melt away completely – though the precise cause of this fatal sensitivity is never fully clarified.

However, the musical Wicked presents a different destiny for Elphaba, who – whilst allergic to water – survives. Instead, she stages her own death before fleeing Oz alongside Fiyero the scarecrow.

The newest adaptations starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo follow the musical’s narrative, meaning Elphaba fakes her demise by appearing to melt away.

Despite its November 21 release date, Wicked: For Good has already garnered early reactions from cinema-goers, with thousands sharing their opinions on the latest instalment. Boasting an impressive early rating of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, one viewer commented: “It’s the second half to an already amazing first half.

“For me it was just as good and had some of my favorite songs from the original musical so I was a bit biased on that fact.”

Another enthused: “Ariana was incredible as Glinda; definitely taps the feels throughout the movie and has some deeply thoughtful provoking moments that truly connect the audience to the story. Those who typically aren’t interested in musicals should consider giving it a watch.”

Wicked: For Good is released in cinemas on November 21