**‘Wicked: For Good’ Promises Sensitive Approach to Dorothy’s Story, says Director**
The highly anticipated sequel to 2024’s ‘Wicked’ has begun to generate significant buzz, with director Jon M. Chu offering insight into how ‘Wicked: For Good’ will handle the iconic character of Dorothy Gale. The new film is poised to pick up where its predecessor left off, bringing Dorothy, the beloved Kansas girl, into the fold as she takes her first steps down the famous Yellow Brick Road.
With ‘Wicked: For Good’ set to be a major cinematic event, fans of both the original stage musical and the classic 1939 film have been eager to learn how the story will be adapted for the big screen. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Vanity Fair, Chu emphasised the care and restraint the production team plans to exercise with Dorothy’s character. His approach, he explained, is one of sensitivity, as the character assumes a slightly larger role than in the stage version. “We tread lightly, but try to make more sense of how Dorothy’s journey impacts our central characters than perhaps the original show did,” Chu remarked.
The intersection of Dorothy and the world of Oz is not only a pivotal moment in the narrative but also a significant cultural touchstone. As Chu pointed out, this is the point at which audiences were originally introduced to Oz, and it remains a place full of emotional resonance. The director was keen to assure fans that the film would strike a careful balance. “We’re delicate. We’re delicate. We’re delicate,” he insisted, making clear the intention to respect both the legacy of the character and the expectations of long-time fans.
Chu, renowned for his work on ‘Crazy Rich Asians’, was also eager to draw attention to the true heart of the sequel: the friendship between Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande). He clarified that while Dorothy’s appearance is important, the primary focus remains on the relationship between the two witches. “To me, this is why this story exists,” Chu stated. “It’s where childhood dreams collide with our adult selves.”
The plot of ‘Wicked: For Good’ is set to follow the second half of the acclaimed Broadway musical, charting the aftermath of Elphaba and Glinda’s parting of ways. Elphaba, now a fugitive, escapes into the western skies, while Glinda rises in prominence, manipulated by the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh). Chu offered a glimpse of what’s in store, highlighting the emotional stakes: “Our hearts broke when Glinda couldn’t make the choice we wanted at the end of the first film. It is empowering for Elphaba to fly away, and in this new chapter, audiences will witness the fallout from those crucial decisions.”
As the film’s release date in November approaches, post-production is in its final stages. Chu admitted there are still some finishing touches being made, sharing that he is completing “little tweaks here and there.” He described the period as “the very last moment”, revealing a director’s reluctance to let go: “They are trying to rip the movie away from me right as we speak. I won’t let it go until they take it from my hands.”
Another element certain to excite fans is the addition of new music. While much of the film will remain faithful to the original stage production, Chu confirmed that two fresh songs, composed by ‘Wicked’s’ original songwriter Stephen Schwartz, will feature in the movie. “They are excellent additions to the story and absolutely necessary for this film,” Chu enthused, offering high praise for Schwartz’s continued involvement: “To have Stephen Schwartz back is pretty extraordinary. Watching him work is a privilege.”
As expectations mount and the countdown to opening night continues, all eyes are on how ‘Wicked: For Good’ will further explore the complex relationships and mythos of Oz, while introducing or reimagining much-loved characters for a new generation. With promises of sensitivity, new music, and high drama, the sequel appears poised to enthral both loyal fans and newcomers alike.