What happens when a mischievous witch and a goody-two-shoes meet? Fans of “Wicked” have been waiting for years to find out. Director Jon M. Chu is finally bringing the story to the big screen, after a 20-year wait.
Chu is known for hits like “Crazy Rich Asians” and “In the Heights.” He fell in love with “Wicked” on Broadway in 2003. Now, his dream is coming true, with the first film set for November 27, 2024.
From Early Dreams to Hollywood Success: Jon M. Chu’s Journey
Jon M. Chu’s journey to direct Wicked has been full of ups and downs. He started with the hit Step Up 2: The Streets in 2008. Then, he directed G.I. Joe: Retaliation and Now You See Me 2. But it was Crazy Rich Asians in 2018 that really made him known.
Chu’s next big project was In the Heights in 2021. This showed his skill in bringing diverse stories to life. It set him up for his next big challenge: the Wicked film.
Chu loves telling stories and making them visually stunning. He’s ready to bring Wicked to the big screen. His talent and creativity will surely impress audiences.
The cast of Wicked includes Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. The film will be split into two parts, offering a deeper look into the story. It’s going to be a fun and memorable movie experience.
The Long Wait for the Wicked Adaptation
The journey to bring “Wicked” to the big screen has been long and full of twists. Universal Pictures started working on the film in 2004, soon after the musical’s debut. The project has hit many roadblocks, with different directors attached before Jon M. Chu took over.
Chu, a huge fan of the musical, has been waiting 20 years to direct. The COVID-19 pandemic added to the delays, but filming started in 2022 in the UK. With Chu at the helm, fans can look forward to a film that honors the original while exploring new ideas.
The “Wicked” film will have new and expanded scenes, making it more engaging for viewers. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, playing Glinda and Elphaba, are already getting Oscar buzz for their performances.
Jonathan Bailey, known from “Bridgerton,” plays Fiyero. He shows off his impressive skills, including flips and book tricks. The film’s first part is as long as the entire stage musical, promising an epic journey.
The film is being released in two parts, with the second coming on November 21, 2025. This choice reflects the story’s depth and complexity, ensuring it gets the screen time it deserves.
The excitement for this malicious and wicked prank of a film is high. With Chu’s passion and the talented cast, audiences are in for a magical experience that celebrates the “Wicked” universe.
Transforming the Musical for the Big Screen
Jon M. Chu wants to make the “Wicked” movie bigger and more detailed. He plans to explore Oz more and dive into the characters’ pasts. By making two movies, he can cover more of the story, solving a big challenge for filmmakers.
Chu wants to bring a new view to the story while keeping its heart and feelings. This way, he respects the musical’s fans and its essence.
The cast for this big project is amazing. Ariana Grande will play Glinda, and Cynthia Erivo will be Elphaba. Jonathan Bailey is Fiyero, and Michelle Yeoh is Madame Morrible. They all bring their talents to make the characters shine.
The Wicked movie will come out in 2024, as two parts. Fans of the musical are excited for this big-screen adventure. Chu’s dedication to the story shows his love for “Wicked” and its lasting impact.
