The mystery is solved. Bethany Weaver, a 30-year-old performer from Surrey, has been revealed as the actor portraying Dorothy Gale in the highly anticipated film,Wicked: For Good. Fans have eagerly awaited this announcement, knowing Dorothy, though not central to theWickednarrative, holds a crucial place in the unfolding story.
Dorothy’s appearance in the film is surprisingly brief. She’s slated for just 69 seconds of screen time, delivering only six lines of dialogue – and her face will remain unseen. This deliberate choice by director Jon M. Chu aims to preserve the audience’s personal connection to the iconic character.
Chu explained his reasoning, stating he didn’t want to influence viewers’ existing perceptions of Dorothy. The sequel, he emphasized, remains focused on the complex relationship between Elphaba and Glinda, with Dorothy serving as a catalyst within their journey.
Cynthia Erivo, who powerfully embodies Elphaba, echoed this sentiment. She believes allowing audiences to retain their cherished image of Dorothy is a thoughtful approach, respecting the character’s enduring legacy across generations.
The dynamic between Glinda, played by Ariana Grande, and Dorothy also promises intrigue. Grande revealed she relished the opportunity to portray a subtly “shady” Glinda, seemingly impatient with Dorothy’s plight and offering less help than one might expect.
Early reviews forWicked: For Goodare largely positive, currently holding a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have particularly praised the exceptional performances of Erivo and Grande, noting they surpass even their impressive work in the first film.
However, some observations suggest a minor imbalance. One review noted Jonathan Bailey’s role as Fiyero felt somewhat underutilized, with his singing showcased primarily in a single, particularly theatrical duet.
Despite this small critique, the film is poised to captivate audiences.Wicked: For Goodarrives in cinemas, promising a continuation of the untold story of the Witches of Oz and a fresh perspective on a beloved tale.
