Wicked Parts 3 and 4 refer to the next two main films in the planned Wicked film series, which will serve as prequels to The Wizard of Oz. Based on the enduringly popular stage musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, these sequels expand the story of Elphaba and Glinda beyond the original Broadway narrative. This evergreen overview explains the franchise structure, what to expect from Parts 3 and 4, how they fit into the broader timeline, and how audiences can understand their narrative role within the beloved musical universe.
What Are Wicked Parts 3 and 4
Wicked Parts 3 and 4 are upcoming cinematic sequels that continue the story of the musical Wicked, focusing on the lives of Elphaba and Glinda before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz. Each part is designed as a distinct chapter, allowing the narrative to unfold across two feature films rather than a single, overlong movie. These sequels will explore later events in the Emerald City, expand on secondary characters, and deepen the world-building first established in Parts 1 and 2. While exact plots remain under wraps, the films are intended to preserve the musical’s themes of friendship, identity, and moral complexity.
The Structure of the Wicked Film Series
The Wicked film series is planned as two pairs of movies that together form a broad adaptation and expansion of the stage musical. Parts 1 and 2 introduce the origin stories of Elphaba and Glinda, while Parts 3 and 4 move into more advanced storylines from the musical and new material inspired by it. This segmented approach gives writers room to explore political intrigue, character evolution, and the escalating conflict with the Wizard. Because the series spans four films, each part can focus on specific arcs without rushing the emotional throughline that made the musical resonate.
How the Films Divide the Story
- Part 1: First acts as an origin story, establishing the central friendship and political tensions in Oz.
- Part 2: Continues the ascent of Elphaba and Glinda, deepening key relationships and introducing pivotal musical moments.
- Part 3: Advances the timeline, targeting later developments and unresolved tensions from earlier events.
- Part 4: Rounds out the saga, aiming to deliver closure and expansion where the stage show leaves off.
Key Differences Between Parts 3 and 4
Because information about specific plot beats is limited, the clearest way to anticipate the difference between Parts 3 and 4 is to think of them as consecutive movement through the source material rather than isolated stories. Part 3 is likely to handle rising tension, shifting alliances, and major confrontations that escalate from Part 2, while Part 4 will focus on the climax and resolution of the arcs begun in the prior films. The division allows for more elaborate musical sequences, developed character work, and a thoughtful pacing that can be difficult to achieve in a single lengthy film.
Narrative Scope Across All Four Parts
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Total Planned Films | 4 | Official Production Announcements |
| Parts 1 & 2 Released | 2024 and 2025 | Studio Release Schedules |
| Parts 3 & 4 Status | In Development or Pre-production | Studio Updates |
| Primary Perspective | Elphaba and Glinda | Musical Source Material |
| Musical Basis | Stage score by Stephen Schwartz | Original Broadway Production |
How the Films Relate to The Wizard of Oz
Wicked Parts 3 and 4 exist in the same universe as The Wizard of Oz but are designed as companion pieces rather than direct sequels to the 1939 film. They explore the history of Oz in greater depth, explaining the rise of the Wizard’s rule and the social conditions that shaped Elphaba’s activism. By expanding on these events, the films provide context for how Oz became the world Dorothy enters, enriching the classic story with additional political and emotional nuance. This framing positions Parts 3 and 4 as world-building exercises that deepen the mythology of Oz rather than retelling Dorothy’s journey.
What Audiences Can Expect in Terms of Tone and Style
Given the lineage of the stage musical, Wicked Parts 3 and 4 are expected to maintain the show’s blend of drama, humor, and spectacle. The films will likely rely on elaborate musical sequences to carry key story beats, preserving the emotional power of songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” in new contexts. Production design, costume work, and visual effects will aim to translate the heightened reality of Broadway to the screen, while character-driven storytelling keeps the focus on Elphaba and Glinda. The division into two parts allows each film to breathe, supporting a measured pace that can accommodate both intimate moments and large-scale set pieces.
Musical and Thematic Priorities
- Emotional Continuity: Preserving the bond between Elphaba and Glinda is central to the narrative.
- Thematic Expansion: Parts 3 and 4 are expected to explore power, resistance, and moral compromise in greater detail.
- Musical Integrity: New songs will be crafted to extend the world of the stage version rather than replace it.
- World-Building: More screen time will be devoted to institutions like the Wizard’s administration and the broader culture of Oz.
How to Follow the Series for Maximum Clarity
To get the most from Wicked Parts 3 and 4, it helps to view them as the natural next step after Parts 1 and 2. Audiences who have seen the earlier films will already be familiar with the central characters, key locations, and the political tensions that define the world. For viewers new to the story, starting with the first two parts is strongly recommended, as the later films assume knowledge of major relationships and plot developments. Treating the four movies as a cohesive saga encourages attention to evolving motivations and long-term consequences rather than isolated scenes.
Distinguishing Between Parts 3 and 4 in Practice
Although exact plot details for Wicked Parts 3 and 4 have not been fully disclosed, the most reliable way to anticipate their differences is to consider their positions in the overall narrative arc. Part 3 will likely address the consequences of decisions made in Parts 1 and 2, raising the stakes for both personal and political conflicts. Part 4 can then focus on resolution, tying together threads introduced across the series. This structure allows each part to serve a clear purpose, reducing the risk of redundancy and ensuring that the four-film approach adds depth rather than prolonging the story unnecessarily.
The Role of Source Material and Creative Adaptation
Because Wicked on stage is a self-contained two-hour show, translating it into four feature films requires thoughtful adaptation. Parts 3 and 4 will need to draw from the spirit of the musical while introducing new material that feels authentic to the established world. Writers and directors face the challenge of balancing fan expectations with cinematic storytelling, ensuring that songs, character beats, and thematic messages survive the transition. By leaning into the emotional core of the musical, these later films can remain faithful without being constrained by the original runtime limitations.