Beyond the Yellow Brick Road: A Conversation with Jon M. Chu, Director of "Wicked"
Jon M. Chu, a name synonymous with vibrant cinematic storytelling and cultural celebration, is best known for bringing iconic stories, like "Crazy Rich Asians" and "In the Heights", to the big screen. Now, he’s stepping into the magical world of "Wicked", the highly anticipated prequel to "The Wizard of Oz", and his journey is anything but a predictable fairytale. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Chu’s vision for "Wicked", explore the complexities of breaking free from traditional "happy endings", and uncover the personal significance driving his filmmaking journey.
Reimagining a Classic: Exploring the Darkness in Oz
"Wicked" is not your typical retelling, nor is it a simple sequel. Chu approaches the story with a nuanced understanding of its potential, embracing the ambiguity and complexities that lie beneath the surface of "The Wizard of Oz". He recognizes that the enchanting world of Oz, so often associated with happiness and wonder, has a darker side:
"It’s the American fairytale, to follow the yellow brick road. There’s someone who’s going to give you your heart’s desire at the end of it, but you have to prove yourself. And yet nicely contained stories don’t actually exist. Life just keeps going. In my work now, I’m trying to almost dissect the idea of happy endings. Especially with Wicked, which is all about how uncomfortable change is for a place like Oz, which is all about being happy."
Chu’s perspective on "Wicked" goes beyond simply showcasing the origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West. He dives into the raw emotions that drive the characters, particularly Elphaba, whom he sees as a catalyst for change. The film delves into the necessity of confronting uncomfortable truths, of acknowledging pain and anger as pathways to growth and transformation.
"Sometimes the anger that Elphaba brings—the frustration, the sadness—is necessary for new things to grow. Expressing how others have hurt us and how we may have hurt others is the only way through," he says.
Embracing Complexity: The Journey Beyond the Rise
Chu’s vision for "Wicked" extends beyond a single film. The story unfolds in two parts, each offering a different perspective on the complex journey of Elphaba and her evolution.
"Part 1 is the choice to rise, and Part 2 is what happens when you stand up. It gets way more complicated," Chu explains.
This complexity resonates deeply with Chu’s personal experience. He sees his relationship with his mother as a reflection of this journey:
"Something has changed within me. Something is not the same. Those words are the thing that made me realize I have to do this movie now."
Chu’s commitment to exploring the intricacies of human interaction and the complexities of personal journeys is evident in his approach to storytelling. He believes in the power of embracing vulnerability and acknowledging the messy reality of life beyond the confines of a neat, happy ending.
Beyond the Screen: The Power of Food, Dance, and Human Connection
Chu’s cinematic artistry shines not only in his storytelling but also in his understanding of the subtle yet powerful details that bring his characters and worlds to life. Food, a quintessential element of human connection, plays an integral role in his films.
"Food is like a character in your movies. The hawker market scene in Crazy Rich Asians made me want to go to Singapore," one interviewer observed.
Chu’s use of food transcends mere depiction; it paints a vibrant tapestry of culture, tradition, and shared experiences. The hawker market scene, rich with the sights, sounds, and smells of Singapore, is a testament to his ability to transport audiences into a sensory world.
His mastery of visual storytelling extends to the realm of dance. Chu recognizes the power of movement to communicate emotions, as seen in the unforgettable choreography of "In the Heights".
"I took tap, but I’m not a great dancer. You would never see me and say, ‘That guy should keep doing that!’ No, but I was friends with great dancers. I know what they’re trying to express," he reflects.
While he may not be a dancer himself, Chu’s understanding of movement’s expressive capabilities is profound. He trusts his collaborators, the dancers, to bring his vision to life, leveraging their expertise to create breathtaking sequences like the scene where the characters dance along the side of a building.
Cultural Sensitivity and Personal Growth: A Journey Rooted in Family and Heritage
Chu’s approach to filmmaking is deeply personal, informed by his heritage and his unique perspective as a Chinese American director. He doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges and nuances of navigating cultural expectations.
"To Asian relatives, we’re always fat, even if we’re not." This candid statement reveals a unique perspective on cultural dynamics and the pressure to conform to specific ideals.
Chu’s experience as a son of immigrants, particularly his mother’s presence in his life, deeply shapes his outlook. A poignant moment during our interview highlights this connection:
"She didn’t fix my hair. That’s good. Or say that I’m fat."
This statement, laced with a hint of gratitude and relief, underscores the unspoken expectations often placed upon children of immigrants. His mother’s arrival during the interview is a powerful reminder of the underlying dynamics at play, a glimpse into the complex relationship between family, identity, and personal growth.
A Legacy of Storytelling: Expanding Beyond the Yellow Brick Road
Jon M. Chu’s journey as a filmmaker is a testament to his ability to transform stories into visual experiences that resonate deeply with audiences. He doesn’t shy away from tackling complex themes and pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
"Wicked" marks a significant milestone in his career. It’s not simply a retelling but a re-imagining, a departure from the safe confines of the original story. Through the intricacies of Elphaba’s journey, Chu explores the power of change, the unyielding nature of the human spirit, and the complexities of confronting our own vulnerabilities.
As we look beyond the familiar world of "The Wizard of Oz", Chu invites us to travel with him on a journey that transcends the traditional fairytale. This journey is about embracing the messy reality of life, celebrating the nuances of human connection, and discovering the power that lies in confronting our own darkness in order to find the light.
This, after all, is the true magic of Jon M. Chu’s storytelling, a magic that extends far beyond the yellow brick road.
