"Wicked" director Jon M. Chu on the road to Oz

Published 2024-07-28
Jon M. Chu, the son of immigrant parents, immersed himself in American culture growing up, and built a career as a filmmaker with hits such as "Crazy Rich Asians" and "In the Heights," tapping into his own identity and translating stories of struggle and ambition to the silver screen. He talks with correspondent Jo Ling Kent about how his childhood infatuation with "The Wizard of Oz" led to his directing the movie version of the smash Broadway musical "Wicked."

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All Comments (21)
  • “I think that the yellow brick road is no longer the path that you just keep following, because there is no wizard there that’s going to give you your hearts desire. Life is a series of walking adventures. As you’re walking, smell the flowers and feel the air. And maybe you’ll realize you’re actually flying.” - Jon Chu
  • @fernandu1987
    Loved this interview. Cho's life story is pretty inspiring. Loved when he said he didn't wanna stick with the Asian director label, for he wanted to be known for more than that but the quality of his work! 👏 The angelic lady interviewer is very good too. Congrats!
  • I like how he says its not about following the yellow brick road but stopping to smell the roses on the way
  • @manuelorozco7760
    How nice! When I found out Jon was going to direct Wicked I was in musical theatre heaven! Especially with how much he put into In The Heights
  • @detailsmove
    I'm so proud and happy for Jon M Chu; been following him since his Step Up 2 and Youtube days, and the journey's been fascinating to witness
  • @mililaniman
    Working in a restaurant gave John Chu a strong work ethic that has served him well as a film director. I can't wait to see Wicked.
  • @siriuset
    I worked for Jon on one of his earliest movies and let me tell you he is the real deal. Talented, hard working, no Hollywood BS. Just a love of movies which shows through in his own.
  • @hanssolos3699
    what is jon's fave toy as a child? train. cos it goes "chu chu" 😂😂😂
  • @silverlve70
    I would have been fine with a three hour movie versus having it split into two movies, separated by so much time.
  • @ZeacorZeppelin
    Still questioning the decision to make Wicked into two movies. The musical itselft is only 2 hours and 45 minutes long including the 15 minutes intermission
  • @baercub521
    Glad he’s helming the project, but I still think sending Wicked out against Gladiator is not a good idea. They should delay until December when it has a Christmas release and can possibly top the box office
  • @steveconn
    Seems a shameless money-grab to split the movie version of Wicked into two parts, but I liked the musical, so I'll probably see it (Ariana perfect choice; her Judy Garland imitation on cut SNL sketch top-notch!).
  • @JustinCase780
    In the closet scene at the beginning you can see Louis C.K. hiding in the closet It was an inside joke on set.