Jon M. Chu believes ‘the time is right’ for ‘Wicked’
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Jon M. Chu is confident that the time is right for the Wicked movie adaptation, which has generated significant buzz. The director of the highly anticipated musical, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, recently shared his excitement for the project in an interview with CNN’s John Berman.
“There has to be a reason why a movie is made, an urgency, and I think the time is right,” Chu explained, reflecting on the momentous nature of the film, which follows the success of the 2003 Broadway musical. He noted that finding the perfect actresses to play Elphaba and Glinda was crucial, and it was serendipitous that Grande and Erivo were both entering a new chapter in their careers.
“These actresses were coming into this moment of their careers where they get to show another side of themselves that maybe people haven’t seen,” Chu said, adding that he, too, had learned important lessons from his previous filmmaking experiences. Despite the challenges, he believes that everything has aligned perfectly to bring the iconic Broadway show to the big screen.
Erivo portrays Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned witch who faces discrimination and isolation due to her appearance. One of the most memorable moments from both the film and the stage musical is when Elphaba belts out the empowering anthem “Defying Gravity.” The song’s lyrics reflect her decision to stop conforming to the expectations of others, as she declares she is “through with playing by the rules of someone else’s game.” For Chu, this moment of personal liberation resonates even more deeply in today’s world.
“I think the moments have changed, even after Covid,” Chu shared. “Those words, ‘something has changed within me, something’s not the same,’ in Defying Gravity mean something different.” He explained that the song now reflects the uncertainty that many people feel in a world that has shifted dramatically, especially after the pandemic. He believes that Wicked taps into these feelings of change and rebellion, making it even more timely.
With the first film already performing well at the box office, attention has turned to the highly anticipated sequel, which is set to be released in November 2025. Chu teased that the follow-up would explore deeper themes, with a focus on the consequences of the choices made in the first film.
“If movie one is about choices, movie two is about consequences,” Chu revealed. “Why do you defend a home that maybe doesn’t want you, and what is the meaning of home?” These thought-provoking questions are sure to drive the narrative of the second movie, which promises to delve into the complex emotions and decisions that define the characters’ journeys.
The Wicked movies have become a cultural phenomenon, building on the immense success of the Broadway musical. The film adaptation, which has already captured the imagination of audiences, has sparked conversations about personal identity, empowerment, and societal expectations. With Chu at the helm and two powerhouse performances from Grande and Erivo, it’s clear that Wicked is more than just a musical—it’s a timely exploration of themes that resonate deeply with today’s audience.
As the first film continues to draw in audiences, fans are eagerly awaiting the sequel, which promises to continue the story of Elphaba, Glinda, and the land of Oz in new and exciting ways. The questions raised by the film’s plot seem particularly relevant in the current social and political climate, making Wicked not just a story of magic, but also a reflection of the complexities of human existence.
For Chu, the timing of the Wicked film couldn’t have been better, and he is excited to continue telling the story of two of Broadway’s most iconic characters. With an incredible cast, an insightful director, and a story that speaks to our times, Wicked is set to leave a lasting mark on both the box office and the hearts of viewers everywhere.
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