Jon M Chu Views Both ‘Wicked’ Films as a Single Epic Comparable to ‘The Lord of the Rings’
Jon M. Chu has devoted over five years to adapting the legendary Broadway musical “Wicked” into a cinematic experience. After completing both parts, he views the project as a single, cohesive film rather than two distinct installments. This perspective echoes the ongoing discourse about Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings,” which many critics and fans regard as one epic narrative divided into three movies.
Director’s Vision for ‘Wicked’
In an interview on the Awards Circuit Podcast, Chu shared his thoughts on the expansive nature of the musical. He sees the narrative arcs of “Wicked” as interconnected, stitching together a single, grand tale. His creative journey evolved alongside his personal life; he began the project as a father of two and concluded it as a father of five. Notably, his fifth child was born on the day of the film’s premiere, which prevented him from attending.
First Installment Overview
The first film, titled simply “Wicked,” was released in 2024. It stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, and has already garnered 10 Academy Award nominations, including for Best Picture. Interestingly, Chu did not receive a nomination for Best Director. He now joins Denis Villeneuve as one of only two directors whose films have achieved ten nominations without a directing nod.
Upcoming Sequel: ‘Wicked: For Good’
The eagerly awaited sequel, “Wicked: For Good,” is scheduled to debut in November. Chu continues to reflect on the emotional journey of creating these films. Despite initial challenges and the backdrop of COVID-19, he remained committed to developing a project that resonated deeply with fans and critics alike.
Creative and Emotional Challenges
Taking on “Wicked” was a significant responsibility for Chu, given its reputation as one of Broadway’s most cherished properties. Universal’s announcement of his directorship sparked high expectations, as fans worldwide hold strong opinions on the musical’s legacy. Chu humorously acknowledged the challenges he faced, particularly considering the numerous adaptations of “The Wizard of Oz.”
- Project initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Adaptation involves navigating fan expectations and industry risks.
- Chu emphasized the transformative power of film, encouraging ambitious storytelling.
Emotional Impact and Future Outlook
Chu describes “Wicked: For Good” as more than just a sequel; it serves as the emotional climax of the story crafted over five years. He stressed that the final moments in the film, particularly the poignant song “For Good,” will resonate deeply with audiences.
As he prepares to bid farewell to this chapter of his career, Chu reflects on his journey, stating, “It’s one big story to me, and now, finally, I get to let it go.” With a combination of anticipation and nostalgia, he invites viewers to experience this unique saga that he believes will leave a lasting impression.
