Jon M. Chu Reflects on Five Transformative Years with ‘Wicked’
Jon M. Chu has dedicated five years to directing the film adaptation of Wicked: For Good, immersing himself in the world created by L. Frank Baum. His journey involved not only overseeing the film’s intricate production but also nurturing a close-knit team of actors and creatives. Throughout this experience, Chu focused on themes of responsibility and trust rather than simply the film’s scale or anticipated box office success.
During a recent interview on the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast, Chu reflected on his time in Oz, stating, “When you live with something for five-plus years, and you dream about it and wake up with nightmares right in front of you, it sticks with you.” His commitment to the project has been profound, emphasizing the emotional architecture necessary for adapting a story as cherished as Wicked.
While much has been discussed regarding the film’s structure and its adaptation challenges, Chu prefers to highlight the collaborative spirit among his team. He describes his crew, which includes cinematographer Alice Brooks, editor Myron Kerstein, and composers John Powell and Stephen Schwartz, as more of a family than a traditional production unit. “All of us are underdogs,” he noted, expressing pride in their shared journey in an industry that often demands continual proof of talent.
Casting for Wicked: For Good was grounded in trust and instinct rather than conventional industry metrics. Chu revealed that the studio did not impose restrictions based on actors’ social media presence or marketability. “I thought, let’s keep it open to anybody,” he explained, recalling the moment when Cynthia Erivo and Arielle Jacobs auditioned. Their performances immediately conveyed a powerful connection, further solidifying Chu’s vision for the film.
The emotional depth of the story resonated strongly with Chu, particularly as he revisited the material during the pandemic. He found the themes of Wicked strikingly relevant, addressing issues of fractured communities and the nature of truth. “The truth is not a thing of fact or reason,” he quoted, noting how the film’s messages had grown increasingly pertinent in today’s society.
As Wicked: For Good approaches awards season with ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Chu remains unfazed by the lack of a directing nomination. “In the real business, people hire individuals — not groups,” he said. His perspective reflects a deep appreciation for the team dynamic that has driven the project from inception to completion.
Looking ahead, Chu is preparing for his next animated feature, Oh, the Places You’ll Go, slated for release in 2028. Although he has a full slate of projects in development, he is not rushing to select his next live-action endeavor. “I thought I was going to be exhausted after this,” he admitted, “But no — I feel energized. I feel like we have a lot more to do.”
As he concludes his journey with Wicked, Chu acknowledges the bittersweet nature of finishing a project that has consumed his life for so long. “I think the office is empty now, which is really sad,” he remarked. Yet, he recognizes that storytelling is about creation and letting go for others to embrace and interpret.
In this iteration of Oz, the real magic transcends the visual spectacle. It lies in the trust, vulnerability, and sense of family that have underscored the making of Wicked: For Good. Chu’s commitment to these values has not only shaped the film but also resonates with audiences, inviting them to connect with the story on a deeper level.
Wicked: For Good is currently playing in theaters, promising an engaging cinematic experience. For further insights into the film industry, the Variety Awards Circuit Podcast offers lively discussions and interviews with leading figures in film and television.
