“Wicked” is a beloved Broadway musical that tells the untold story of the Wicked Witch of the West from “The Wizard of Oz.” The show has been a huge success since its premiere in 2003, captivating audiences with its catchy songs, dazzling costumes, and thought-provoking themes. Now, director Jon M. Chu is bringing “Wicked” to the big screen in a highly anticipated film adaptation.
One of the most iconic moments in “Wicked” is the song “Popular,” in which Glinda, the Good Witch, teaches her newfound friend Elphaba, the Wicked Witch, how to be popular. The song is a fun and upbeat number that showcases Glinda’s bubbly personality and Elphaba’s reluctance to conform to societal norms. In the upcoming film adaptation, the roles of Glinda and Elphaba will be played by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, respectively.
In a recent interview, director Jon M. Chu discussed his approach to filming the “Popular” scene with Grande and Erivo. Chu explained that he wanted to stay true to the spirit of the original Broadway production while also bringing a fresh perspective to the beloved musical. He emphasized the importance of capturing the chemistry between Grande and Erivo, as their characters’ dynamic and complex relationship is at the heart of the story.
Chu described the filming process as a collaborative effort, with Grande and Erivo bringing their own unique interpretations to the characters of Glinda and Elphaba. He praised Grande for her impressive vocal range and stage presence, noting that she effortlessly embodies the role of Glinda with her charisma and charm. Erivo, on the other hand, brings a depth and vulnerability to Elphaba that adds layers to the character’s complexity.
As Chu delved deeper into his vision for the “Popular” scene, he revealed that he wanted to showcase the contrast between Glinda’s superficial popularity and Elphaba’s moral integrity. The song serves as a turning point in the story, as Elphaba begins to question the superficiality of popularity and starts to embrace her true self. Chu explained that he wanted to highlight the emotional journey that both characters go through in the scene, as they navigate the complexities of friendship and self-discovery.
Chu also discussed the technical aspects of filming the musical number, explaining that he wanted to create a visually stunning and dynamic sequence that would captivate audiences. He worked closely with his cinematographer and choreographer to choreograph the elaborate dance numbers and design the elaborate costumes and sets. Chu emphasized the importance of paying attention to detail in order to capture the magic and wonder of the world of Oz.
Overall, Chu’s passion and dedication to bringing “Wicked” to life on the big screen are evident in his careful attention to detail and his commitment to honoring the source material. By working closely with Grande and Erivo to bring their characters to life, Chu has created a fresh and exciting adaptation of the beloved musical that is sure to captivate audiences around the world.
In conclusion, the “Popular” scene in the upcoming film adaptation of “Wicked” promises to be a standout moment that showcases the talent and chemistry of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. Under the direction of Jon M. Chu, the scene is set to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of friendship, self-discovery, and the power of being true to oneself. Fans of the Broadway musical and newcomers alike are sure to be swept away by the magic and wonder of this iconic musical moment brought to life on the big screen.