Adapted from the beloved Broadway musical and inspired by Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, Wicked boasts a remarkable cast that includes Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande-Butera as Glinda. As audiences anticipate the story’s continuation with Wicked: For Good, scheduled to premiere on November 21, 2025, fans will have the opportunity to purchase or rent the first part on Digital starting December 31, 2024. This home release is accompanied by several enticing bonus features such as behind-the-scenes footage, deleted scenes, and more.
The conclusion of Part 1 has left viewers with many compelling questions, some of which director Jon M. Chu hints may be explored in Part 2. While he emphasizes that every element was crafted with purpose, he encourages audiences to form their own interpretations after viewing the film. Besides Erivo and Grande-Butera, the film features an ensemble cast including Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, and more.
Director Jon M. Chu Encourages Fans to “Simmer”on Key Questions
“They will have to either figure that out along the way or have their own interpretation.”
ScreenRant: What was the hardest scene to cut from the final version of Wicked?
Jon M. Chu: Every single scene was challenging to part with. We initially had a three-hour and fifteen-minute version that I adored, but the constraints of runtime forced cuts. One of the last scenes to be removed involved a poignant moment between Elphaba and Glinda, where Glinda promises never to leave Elphaba behind again. The emotional depth in that promise was beautiful, yet it ultimately detracted from the tension in subsequent scenes. Nevertheless, this decision sharpened the storytelling for those later moments, adding to the narrative’s intensity. You’ll discover more about these characters in the upcoming second installment.
There have been many theories circulating. Can you provide any insight into why Fiyero remains unaffected by Elphaba’s magic in Part 1?
Jon M. Chu: I have my thoughts on this matter, but it’s ultimately up to the audience to interpret it as they wish. The ambiguity surrounding this aspect is part of the enjoyment of storytelling. While there’s intentionality behind these plot points, whether it’s a subconscious element of Elphaba’s magic or a conscious one, I encourage viewers to ponder it while waiting for Part 2.
Fans are also curious about the rider seen at the beginning of Part 1. Will this mystery be revealed in the second movie?
Jon M. Chu: I’m a bit surprised this detail was overlooked by many. It indeed took some time for viewers to notice the rider on the horse. Many hints are present in the first movie that will become clearer as the story unfolds in the sequel.
Source: ScreenRant Plus
Choreographer Christopher Scott Discusses the Authenticity of Glinda and Elphaba’s Dance at the Ozdust Dance
“It’s not about being a bad dancer. It’s about her being a different dancer.”
What advice would you give to those trying to replicate the dance from “What Is This Feeling?”
Christopher Scott: My primary piece of advice is to enjoy the process. Often, people worry about making mistakes, but I believe those imperfections add character. The choreography was designed for professional performers, yet it’s meant to be personalized. So, encourage friends and family to join in and have fun with it—that’s the essence of dance.
What emotions were you aiming to express through the dance between Glinda and Elphaba?
Christopher Scott: The key was authenticity. When creating on-screen moments, it’s crucial to express a genuine connection. Liaising closely with Cynthia, we focused on ensuring her portrayal didn’t come off as poor dancing but rather as an evolving style that resonated with her character. Every movement was developed collaboratively to maintain that sense of reality. Musicals can sometimes create a disconnect, so it was my responsibility to ensure that audiences could engage with the storyline meaningfully.
Source: ScreenRant Plus
Insights on Wicked Part 1 (2024)
Produced by Universal Pictures and Directed by Jon M. Chu
Wicked delves into the untold stories of the witches of Oz, featuring acclaimed talents such as Emmy, Grammy, and Tony winner Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, who grapples with the challenges of her unconventional green appearance while searching for her true power. In contrast, Grammy-winning superstar Ariana Grande portrays Glinda, a young woman motivated by privilege and social ambition, yet still on her path to self-discovery.
Their extraordinary bond begins at Shiz University in the enchanting Land of Oz, only to be tested by ambition and personal growth following an encounter with the Wizard. The duo’s diverging paths illuminate a complex narrative of choices and consequences, ultimately leading them to their destinies as Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
- Directed by Jon M. Chu
- Featuring Ethan Slater & Marissa Bode
- With music by Stephen Schwartz and a screenplay by Winnie Holzman
Wicked will be available for purchase or rental on Digital starting December 31, 2024.
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