Getting a phone call from George Lucas praising your work is a dream come true for many filmmakers. For Jon M. Chu, the director of 'Wicked,' this fantasy became a reality through an unexpected FaceTime call.
- December 23, 2024
AceShowbiz - With its record-breaking success, the movie adaptation of the hit stage musical "Wicked" continues to garner acclaim. Director Jon M. Chu shared in an interview with CBS that he received a surprising call from none other than George Lucas, the creator of the iconic "Star Wars" franchise. Lucas commended Chu for the film's impressively faithful adaptation and intricate production design.
"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," Chu revealed. "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.' "
Lucas's accolades emphasize the extraordinary effort and creativity behind "Wicked". Known for pioneering visual effects in his own works, Lucas recognized the meticulous detail in Chu's approach - from planting 9 million tulips to building a 60-ton train for the set of Oz. Unlike many contemporary movies, Chu minimized the use of CGI to craft a more authentic and immersive experience, paying homage to the theater musical while capturing the audience's imagination.
The praise from Lucas adds another layer of validation to the film's widespread success. "Wicked" not only excels in its stunning visuals but also in its ability to connect deeply with audiences. Holding an 88% Tomatometer score and 95% Popcornmeter score on Rotten Tomatoes, it's clear that viewers and critics alike have been enchanted by its performances and storytelling.
Chu's decision to adapt "Wicked" now, with a fresh cast led by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, aimed to resonate with a new generation. The film's themes of belonging and rising above challenges are universal, and their impact is reflected in the heartfelt feedback from fans.
Looking ahead, the excitement builds for the sequel, "Wicked: For Good", set to release in November 2025. As Lucas and many others eagerly anticipate the continuation of Wicked's tale, Chu's direction promises to explore deeper questions and brave new cinematic choices.
For Jon M. Chu, receiving a call from a legendary filmmaker like George Lucas is not just a mark of recognition but a testament to the hard work and creative passion behind Wicked. In Lucas's words, it stands as a "true cinematic triumph."
