Wickeddirector Jon M. Chu received a surprising call fromStar Warscreator George Lucas. Since its debut,Wicked’s reviewshave been overwhelmingly positive, with the movie receiving praise for its leading performances, direction, cinematography, and its ability to faithfully adapt the beloved and long-running Broadway musical. It holds an 88% Tomatometer score and 95% Popcornmeter score on Rotten Tomatoes and has been commended by many notable figures within the entertainment industry.
While speaking withCBS,Chu discussed how Lucas FaceTimed him after being impressed byWicked. Chu explained that he has never met Lucas, but that theStar Warscreator called him to share how much he enjoyedWickedand that he recognized all the artistry that went into creating the movie. He revealed how much it means to him for creative leaders in the entertainment industry to reach out and express their support and admiration forWicked. Check out Chu’s comments below:
I’ve never met George Lucas. I’ve never talked to him. Of course, I went to USC where he supported that school. So I got that call randomly this week. He was still at the mall where he had just seen [Wicked]. And he called me, and we FaceTimed, and he couldn’t have been more kind. He’s like, “You know, I make movies.” And I said, “Yes.” And he’s like, “I see all the elements in that movie. I know how hard it is to pull it all together.” It’s so nice when you see leaders like that, creative leaders, who actually reach out and are just so kind and say we’re doing this together.
What This Means For Wicked
Wicked Is A Cinematic Triumph
Lucas' praise is another sign ofWicked’s far-reaching successand how the movie is a creative triumph. FromStar Warsand his extensive filmmaking history, Lucas knows how challenging it can be for a movie to be made, especially when it is an ambitious project. He recognizes thatWickedis a movie that was able to exceed despite these challenges, and despite being stuck in development for many years. Lucas knows when a movie achieves something truly special and makes a genuine impact, and there is no denying thatWickedhas already achieved these feats.
Wicked Ending Explained & How It Sets Up Wicked Part 2
Wicked: Part 1 builds up Elphaba and Glinda’s friendship, leading to a tense ending in The Emerald City that sets the foundation for Wicked: Part 2.
Of"all the elements"that Lucas recognizes and appreciates in the 2024 movie, one of them is likely the intricate set designs that bringWicked’s version of Ozto life. Planting 9 million tulips, building Munchkinland from scratch, and using a real 60-ton train are among themany details that make Oz feel real and immersiveon a grand, cinematic scale. As someone who used many practical effects and iconic set designs in his movies, Lucas can see when these endeavors are done well.
Our Take On George Lucas' Call
He Has Further Uplifted The Movie’s Success
WhileWickedwas expected to be generally well-received, it has far surpassed those expectations. Lucas reaching out to Chu is indicative of that, with the acclaimed filmmaker recognizing thatWickedis not just a good movie musical, but a work of cinema that succeeds on every leveland that lingers with viewers after they leave the theater. The second movie, nowtitledWicked: For Good, is even more exciting knowing that Lucas is among the many who will be watching and eager to see how the rest ofWicked’s story is adapted via Chu’s stellar direction.
Wicked
Cast
Wicked adapts the Broadway musical into a two-part film, following the unlikely friendship between Elphaba, born with green skin, and Glinda, a popular aristocrat, in the Land of Oz. As they navigate their contrasting paths, they evolve into Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.
