Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Discuss Jon M. Chu's Directing Style for Wicked

Insights from the Wicked Press Conference

• 💡 Thomas Manning of Meet Me at the Movies hosted a special press conference for the film Wicked for Good.
• 🎯 He posed a question to stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo regarding director Jon M. Chu's filmmaking approach.

Cynthia Erivo on Chu's Playful Direction

• 🎭 Erivo described Jon M. Chu as playful and curious, always seeking the core of each character's desires.
• 🧠 Chu learned her artistic "language," encouraging experimental takes (dubbed "shits and giggles") that often yielded the best results.
• ✅ She felt incredibly safe and understood on set, enjoying the collaborative journey and appreciating his unique ability to "get" her.

Ariana Grande on Chu's Empathetic Leadership

• ✨ Grande highlighted Chu's extraordinary qualities as both a person and a visionary director, emphasizing his leadership.
• 💖 She noted his innate understanding of the human experience, particularly feelings of being "othered," and his leadership with immense empathy.
• 🚀 Grande believes Chu was destined to tell the story of Wicked due to his profound human insight.

Balancing Preparation and Freedom

• ⚖️ Chu masterfully balances meticulous preparation and perfectionism with freedom, curiosity, and encouragement for improvisation.
• 🦋 He often suggests actors "catch butterflies" after securing planned takes, fostering a space for spontaneous creativity.
• 🤝 Chu's trust in his actors and respect for collaborators ensures everyone feels cared for, respected, and safe to contribute their best.