Universal Pictures figured out a way to bridge the generation gap. “Wicked” will be released on November 22, 2024; a sequel is scheduled for release on November 21, 2025. “Wicked” is a two-part film adaptation of the stage musical. The stage musical was based on a 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire and characters from L. Frank Baum’s novel “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” was published in 1900. (Per Wikipedia.) This is flipping hilarious to me. Let me explain. I know I’m telling my age with this story, but hear me out. The first television broadcast of “The Wizard of Oz,” starring Judy Garland as Dorothy, was in 1956. In my childhood home, watching this cinematic wonder every year was Tradition! In my memory, even though the yellow brick road wasn’t yellow, the red ruby slippers were not red, and there was no green in the Emerald City (because we had a black and white...
- 9/20/2024
- by Mango Sorbet
- popgeeks - film
The degree of separation that Wicked, the film that will hit theatres later this year, has with its original source material is amusing, to say the least. The adaptation of a musical is adapted from a book about the Wicked Witch of the West, which serves as a prequel/sequel to the original text The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.
Ariana Grande in a still from Wicked || Universal Pictures
Set to star Ariana Grande, it will be a two-part endeavor helmed by Jon M. Chu and Winnie Holzman. The director has said that there are some things that he is going to keep in the film that will please the fans of the books. The film, like the book and the musical it is adapted from, will be a prequel to the original Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The director has also promised that the film will echo some iconic scenes from the books.
Ariana Grande in a still from Wicked || Universal Pictures
Set to star Ariana Grande, it will be a two-part endeavor helmed by Jon M. Chu and Winnie Holzman. The director has said that there are some things that he is going to keep in the film that will please the fans of the books. The film, like the book and the musical it is adapted from, will be a prequel to the original Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The director has also promised that the film will echo some iconic scenes from the books.
- 9/19/2024
- by Anuraag Chatterjee
- FandomWire
Universal Pictures’ two-part Wicked has become a highly anticipated film for the holiday seasons of 2024 and 2025.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the movie musical will star Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba with several other famous faces taking on iconic roles in the land of Oz. Wicked Part One has shifted release dates a few times to land where it now sits in November 2024, and Part Two will follow in November 2025 as of right now.
For everything else we know about Wicked, find more information and details below.
When Will Wicked Part One come out?
Wicked Part One almost went head to head with Disney’s Moana 2 on November 27, 2024, and before that, it was set to bow Christmas 2024, but it moved up a week to the Friday before Thanksgiving, November 22, 2024. Its new opponent will be Paramount’s Gladiator II starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal among others.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the movie musical will star Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba with several other famous faces taking on iconic roles in the land of Oz. Wicked Part One has shifted release dates a few times to land where it now sits in November 2024, and Part Two will follow in November 2025 as of right now.
For everything else we know about Wicked, find more information and details below.
When Will Wicked Part One come out?
Wicked Part One almost went head to head with Disney’s Moana 2 on November 27, 2024, and before that, it was set to bow Christmas 2024, but it moved up a week to the Friday before Thanksgiving, November 22, 2024. Its new opponent will be Paramount’s Gladiator II starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal among others.
- 9/16/2024
- by Dessi Gomez
- Deadline Film + TV
Today, Universal Pictures officially unveiled the official trailer for Wicked, the highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the green-skinned Wicked Witch of the West, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the Good Witch. Wicked explores the untold backstory of these two iconic characters from L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, tracing their friendship, differences, and the events that ultimately lead to Elphaba’s reputation as the “Wicked” witch.
The trailer instantly created a buzz, offering fans their first glimpse of the magical world of Oz in its cinematic glory. The rich visuals, striking set designs, and immersive effects immediately set the stage for an epic retelling. Fans were treated to breathtaking shots of familiar locations like the Emerald City, the towering spires of Shiz University, and the enchanted forests of Munchkinland. These details bring to life the colorful,...
The trailer instantly created a buzz, offering fans their first glimpse of the magical world of Oz in its cinematic glory. The rich visuals, striking set designs, and immersive effects immediately set the stage for an epic retelling. Fans were treated to breathtaking shots of familiar locations like the Emerald City, the towering spires of Shiz University, and the enchanted forests of Munchkinland. These details bring to life the colorful,...
- 9/5/2024
- by Kristyn Clarke
- Age of the Nerd
The video game adaptation curse may no longer be a thing, but the batting average of adaptations of video games continues to be less than great. While we got the stellar "Fallout" TV series early this year, we also barely got the biggest bomb of the year with the horrendous "Borderlands" movie. That said, we have finally reached a point where video game adaptations are as varied as video game themselves. Shows like "Arcane" and "Cyberpunk Edgerunners" bring their worlds to life with spectacular visuals (telling original and poignant stories that surpass those from their source material), while "The Last of Us" feels instead like a walkthrough video.
Except, there is one thing a shocking number of video game movies have in common, and they share it with anime. When the first "Minecraft" movie trailer dropped, some viewers were surprised to learn the film is about a group of people...
Except, there is one thing a shocking number of video game movies have in common, and they share it with anime. When the first "Minecraft" movie trailer dropped, some viewers were surprised to learn the film is about a group of people...
- 9/5/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
Center L to R: Cynthia Erivo (as Elphaba), Director Jon M. Chu, and Ariana Granda (as Glinda) on the set of Wicked
“If you want to be inside the world, you have to build it.”
After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu, Wicked is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.
Watch the new Wicked featurette.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda,...
“If you want to be inside the world, you have to build it.”
After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu, Wicked is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.
Watch the new Wicked featurette.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda,...
- 7/24/2024
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Universal has pushed up the release of Wicked, the highly anticipated adaptation of the acclaimed Broadway show. The film was originally slated to hit theaters on November 27th, but it will now be released on November 22nd… the same day as Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II. This could get interesting.
As both Wicked and Gladiator II are courting very different demographics, the new release date is a smart move. It’s also possible that this match could be the Barbenheimer of 2024. Wickiator? On its original date, Wicked would have opened alongside Moana 2. With this move, the animated Disney sequel currently sits alone as the only new major movie set to be released before the Thanksgiving weekend.
Related Wicked: Journey back to the land of Oz in the new trailer for the musical adaptation
Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, “a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin,...
As both Wicked and Gladiator II are courting very different demographics, the new release date is a smart move. It’s also possible that this match could be the Barbenheimer of 2024. Wickiator? On its original date, Wicked would have opened alongside Moana 2. With this move, the animated Disney sequel currently sits alone as the only new major movie set to be released before the Thanksgiving weekend.
Related Wicked: Journey back to the land of Oz in the new trailer for the musical adaptation
Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, “a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin,...
- 7/1/2024
- by Kevin Fraser
- JoBlo.com
Wicked fans won’t have to wait quite as long as expected to watch Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in the film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical.
Universal Pictures announced Monday that director Jon M. Chu’s musical feature will hit theaters Nov. 22. The film has moved up from its previously scheduled release on Nov. 27, the day before Thanksgiving, with the new date giving the movie more time to build word of mouth heading into the holiday corridor. The new date also allows it to avoid Disney’s Moana 2.
It will now compete against Paramount’s Gladiator II, which also hits theaters Nov. 22 and stars Paul Mescal in Ridley Scott’s follow-up to his Oscar-winning 2000 historical epic.
Wicked adapts the Tony-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which is itself based on author Gregory Maguire’s 1995 book, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West.
Universal Pictures announced Monday that director Jon M. Chu’s musical feature will hit theaters Nov. 22. The film has moved up from its previously scheduled release on Nov. 27, the day before Thanksgiving, with the new date giving the movie more time to build word of mouth heading into the holiday corridor. The new date also allows it to avoid Disney’s Moana 2.
It will now compete against Paramount’s Gladiator II, which also hits theaters Nov. 22 and stars Paul Mescal in Ridley Scott’s follow-up to his Oscar-winning 2000 historical epic.
Wicked adapts the Tony-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which is itself based on author Gregory Maguire’s 1995 book, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West.
- 7/1/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“It’s the basic rule of musicals: characters sing when their emotions become so intense they can’t do anything else.” That quote from Grammy, Emmy and Tony award-winning composer Tom Kitt perfectly sums up the experience of watching a movie musical. A genre arguably more expressive than any other, where dialogue is broken up by sporadic bursts into song and dance. Some movie musicals like ‘Hairspray’ or ‘Grease’ make the audience want to jump out of their seats and sing along to the lively songs, while others like ‘Les Miserables’ or ‘Cabaret’ might leave viewers in a puddle of tears. Many films in this genre were based on original Broadway productions and adapted for the big screen, which allows for bigger sets, Hollywood starpower and exposure to a wider audience. While every movie musical has made an impact on the film industry in one way or another, these eight...
- 6/26/2024
- by Kaitlyn Murphy
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
A six-minute music video for Ariana Grande's latest single, "The Boy is Mine," has been released, and it finds the pop megastar channelling iconic Batman baddie/love interest, Catwoman.
The premise of the video focuses on You star Penn Badgley as the mayor of an unnamed city (we're guessing they couldn't call it Gotham), who decides to unleash an army of stray cats to rid the streets of a rat infestation. Grande plays a woman who is obsessed with the mayor and creates a love potion to make him fall for her.
Then, in a scene which appears to pay homage to Michelle Pfeiffer's Selina Kyle creating her costume in Tim Burton's Batman Returns, Grande dons a homemade Catwoman suit of her own and takes to the streets.
The tune is a single from Grande’s newest album, Eternal Eunshine, and samples Brandy and Monica's 1998 hit of the same name.
The premise of the video focuses on You star Penn Badgley as the mayor of an unnamed city (we're guessing they couldn't call it Gotham), who decides to unleash an army of stray cats to rid the streets of a rat infestation. Grande plays a woman who is obsessed with the mayor and creates a love potion to make him fall for her.
Then, in a scene which appears to pay homage to Michelle Pfeiffer's Selina Kyle creating her costume in Tim Burton's Batman Returns, Grande dons a homemade Catwoman suit of her own and takes to the streets.
The tune is a single from Grande’s newest album, Eternal Eunshine, and samples Brandy and Monica's 1998 hit of the same name.
- 6/7/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Walt Disney recently released the first trailer for Moana 2, set to be released on November 27, 2024. Starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and Auliʻi Cravalho, the movie aims to build on the success of the original 2016 release, which grossed around $687 million at the box office. The trailer itself promises an entertaining watch, which sees Moana set sails into unchartered territory once again, in a bid to ‘sail new waters.’
However, despite a promising trailer, it seems as if the Dwayne Johnson movie has run into a snag already, as its release date clashes with another major project. It stars none other than Ariana Grande, and boasts of Michelle Yeoh, Cynthia Erivo, and Jeff Goldblum as well. Based on characters from the 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Wicked also releases on November 27, 2024.
Dwayne Johnson’s character in Moana. | Disney
The clash has already led to fans choosing sides, with both movies...
However, despite a promising trailer, it seems as if the Dwayne Johnson movie has run into a snag already, as its release date clashes with another major project. It stars none other than Ariana Grande, and boasts of Michelle Yeoh, Cynthia Erivo, and Jeff Goldblum as well. Based on characters from the 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Wicked also releases on November 27, 2024.
Dwayne Johnson’s character in Moana. | Disney
The clash has already led to fans choosing sides, with both movies...
- 5/29/2024
- by Rishabh Bhatnagar
- FandomWire
Universal Pictures has dropped the second trailer for director Jon M. Chu’s Wicked.
After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Wicked, in theaters on November 27, 2024, is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.
With a cast featuring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, Bronwyn James, Keala Settle and Peter Dinklage, watch the trailer now.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda,...
After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Wicked, in theaters on November 27, 2024, is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.
With a cast featuring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, Bronwyn James, Keala Settle and Peter Dinklage, watch the trailer now.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda,...
- 5/16/2024
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Enter the wonderful world of Oz as Universal Pictures has debuted the official full trailer for John M. Chu’s ‘Wicked.’
The untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.
The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future.
The untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.
The two meet as students at Shiz University in the fantastical Land of Oz and forge an unlikely but profound friendship. Following an encounter with The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives take very different paths. Glinda’s unflinching desire for popularity sees her seduced by power, while Elphaba’s determination to remain true to herself, and to those around her, will have unexpected and shocking consequences on her future.
- 5/16/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
We're not in Kansas any more...
Universal Pictures has pulled back the curtain on Jon M. Chu's big-screen adaptation of Broadway hit, Wicked, with an extended trailer, and if you're not too familiar with the story, don't worry - this teaser tells you everything you need to know.
We're used to trailers giving a bit too much away at this stage, but this really takes the flying monkey!
The movie, which is set to hit theaters on November 27, will tell the story of how a shy green-skinned woman named Elphaba becomes a cackling villain with an aversion to water we first met in The Wizard of Oz.
Cynthia Erivo stars as Elphaba, who will ultimately become the "Wicked Witch of the West," while pop megastar Ariana Grande will play Glinda, aka "Good Witch of the East."
It's probably not a major to spoiler to note that their friendship doesn't last!
Universal Pictures has pulled back the curtain on Jon M. Chu's big-screen adaptation of Broadway hit, Wicked, with an extended trailer, and if you're not too familiar with the story, don't worry - this teaser tells you everything you need to know.
We're used to trailers giving a bit too much away at this stage, but this really takes the flying monkey!
The movie, which is set to hit theaters on November 27, will tell the story of how a shy green-skinned woman named Elphaba becomes a cackling villain with an aversion to water we first met in The Wizard of Oz.
Cynthia Erivo stars as Elphaba, who will ultimately become the "Wicked Witch of the West," while pop megastar Ariana Grande will play Glinda, aka "Good Witch of the East."
It's probably not a major to spoiler to note that their friendship doesn't last!
- 5/15/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
Since the film is being produced and distributed by Universal, which streamer it will land on is easy to answer; when, however, is more complicated.
Did you hear a distinctive call coming from the western skies on Wednesday? If so, it might have been caused by the release of the thrillifying trailer for the upcoming film adaptations of the hit Broadway musical “Wicked.” Directed by Jon M. Chu, the iconic musical will be broken up into two films, with the first will be released on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, the day before Thanksgiving. Starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the film’s trailer already has the internet buzzing and while the musical’s legions of fans will undoubtedly show up to see the film in theaters, you might already be wondering when you will be able to stream Erivo’s “Defying Gravity” on repeat at home. Fortunately, we here at The Streamable...
Did you hear a distinctive call coming from the western skies on Wednesday? If so, it might have been caused by the release of the thrillifying trailer for the upcoming film adaptations of the hit Broadway musical “Wicked.” Directed by Jon M. Chu, the iconic musical will be broken up into two films, with the first will be released on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, the day before Thanksgiving. Starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the film’s trailer already has the internet buzzing and while the musical’s legions of fans will undoubtedly show up to see the film in theaters, you might already be wondering when you will be able to stream Erivo’s “Defying Gravity” on repeat at home. Fortunately, we here at The Streamable...
- 5/15/2024
- by Matt Tamanini
- The Streamable
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are ready to defy expectations in the new trailer for the movie adaptation of Wicked.
On Wednesday, Universal Pictures released the first full promo for the initial installment of the two-part film version. Jon M. Chu’s film, which stars Grande as Glinda and Erivo as Elphaba, hits theaters Nov. 27.
Wicked’s teaser trailer aired during Super Bowl Lviii on Feb. 11 and provided the first look at the movie that adapts the Tony-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which is itself based on author Gregory Maguire’s 1995 book, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. The project adapts characters that originated in L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and were brought to life in the Oscar-winning 1939 film musical The Wizard of Oz starring Judy Garland as Dorothy.
The Wicked film follows green-skinned Elphaba and her...
On Wednesday, Universal Pictures released the first full promo for the initial installment of the two-part film version. Jon M. Chu’s film, which stars Grande as Glinda and Erivo as Elphaba, hits theaters Nov. 27.
Wicked’s teaser trailer aired during Super Bowl Lviii on Feb. 11 and provided the first look at the movie that adapts the Tony-winning Broadway musical of the same name, which is itself based on author Gregory Maguire’s 1995 book, Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. The project adapts characters that originated in L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and were brought to life in the Oscar-winning 1939 film musical The Wizard of Oz starring Judy Garland as Dorothy.
The Wicked film follows green-skinned Elphaba and her...
- 5/15/2024
- by Ryan Gajewski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tyrion Lannister is heading to the Wonderful World of Oz. Peter Dinklage has been cast in the upcoming Broadway musical adaptation “Wicked: Part One,” it was announced Wednesday.
Jim Orr, Universal Pictures President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, announced the news on Wednesday, during the company’s CinemaCon presentation in Las Vegas. Dinklage will voice Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor at Shiz University and a mentor to the musical’s protagonist Elphaba (played in the film by Cynthia Erivo). William Youmans originated the part on Broadway in 2003.
Dinklage is best known for his acclaimed performance as Tyrion in HBO drama “Game of Thrones.” For his part as the scheming political manipulator, the actor won the Primetime Emmy Award for Oustanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series a record four times across the show’s eight seasons. Outside of “Game of Thrones,” Dinklage broke through with the 2003 indie film “The Station Agent,...
Jim Orr, Universal Pictures President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution, announced the news on Wednesday, during the company’s CinemaCon presentation in Las Vegas. Dinklage will voice Dr. Dillamond, a goat professor at Shiz University and a mentor to the musical’s protagonist Elphaba (played in the film by Cynthia Erivo). William Youmans originated the part on Broadway in 2003.
Dinklage is best known for his acclaimed performance as Tyrion in HBO drama “Game of Thrones.” For his part as the scheming political manipulator, the actor won the Primetime Emmy Award for Oustanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series a record four times across the show’s eight seasons. Outside of “Game of Thrones,” Dinklage broke through with the 2003 indie film “The Station Agent,...
- 4/11/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
Universal ended its CinemaCon presentation with Wicked last year, and they continued to beat the drum for director Jon M. Chu’s feature take of the Broadway musical with a colorful spectacle. Every attendee at Caesars Colosseum was given a faux tulip that lit up in varying colors, in particular pink and green, creating a great visual before Jeff Goldblum aka the Wizard took the stage to introduce Chu and producer Marc Platt.
Chu regaled: “I was a Silicon Valley kid, and as a matter of luck, I was there when Wicked was workshopped in San Francisco. I’ll never forget it; it imprinted on me permanently.”
He was joined by Michelle Yeoh and Jonathan Bailey. Yeoh praised Chu for casting her in roles in which the filmmaker “knows her so well.”
But the big surprise came when the witches themselves, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, stepped on stage.
Grande...
Chu regaled: “I was a Silicon Valley kid, and as a matter of luck, I was there when Wicked was workshopped in San Francisco. I’ll never forget it; it imprinted on me permanently.”
He was joined by Michelle Yeoh and Jonathan Bailey. Yeoh praised Chu for casting her in roles in which the filmmaker “knows her so well.”
But the big surprise came when the witches themselves, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, stepped on stage.
Grande...
- 4/11/2024
- by Nancy Tartaglione and Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
The talented Wayne Brady will appear in an iconic role this month as he suits up for his latest adventure in entertainment.
Brady, best known for hosting TV’s Let’s Make a Deal, and his improv comedy skills on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, has also had plenty of unique roles on stage.
Now, he will appear in the Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz as the title character.
He recently addressed what it’s like to take on that role as he admired a larger-than-life image of himself as the character.
“Does it really sink in when you see your face on the wall?” CBS Sunday Morning’s interviewer asked him.
“I think it sinks in. This never gets old,” he admitted, adding, “I mean, come on. It’s my big old head on Broadway.”
Brady talks about the ‘the energy to live up to’ the role of The Wiz...
Brady, best known for hosting TV’s Let’s Make a Deal, and his improv comedy skills on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, has also had plenty of unique roles on stage.
Now, he will appear in the Tony Award-winning musical The Wiz as the title character.
He recently addressed what it’s like to take on that role as he admired a larger-than-life image of himself as the character.
“Does it really sink in when you see your face on the wall?” CBS Sunday Morning’s interviewer asked him.
“I think it sinks in. This never gets old,” he admitted, adding, “I mean, come on. It’s my big old head on Broadway.”
Brady talks about the ‘the energy to live up to’ the role of The Wiz...
- 4/10/2024
- by Matt Couden
- Monsters and Critics
For years, Awesome Art We’ve Found Around The Net has been about two things only – awesome art and the artists that create it. With that in mind, we thought why not take the first week of the month to showcase these awesome artists even more? Welcome to “Awesome Artist We’ve Found Around The Net.” In this column, we are focusing on one artist and the awesome art that they create, whether they be amateur, up and coming, or well established. The goal is to uncover these artists so even more people become familiar with them. We ask these artists a few questions to see their origins, influences, and more. If you are an awesome artist or know someone that should be featured, feel free to contact me at any time at theodorebond@joblo.com.This month we are very pleased to bring you the awesome art of…
Laurent Durieux...
Laurent Durieux...
- 3/2/2024
- by Theodore Bond
- JoBlo.com
It’s going to be popular.
During Sunday’s Super Bowl, Universal debuted the first trailer for the studio’s two-part adaptation of the musical “Wicked” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The film, from director Jon M. Chu, is due out in theaters on November 27. Part Two of the series comes out a year later, on November 26, 2025.
Here’s the lengthy synopsis of “Wicked” provided by the studio.
“After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda,...
During Sunday’s Super Bowl, Universal debuted the first trailer for the studio’s two-part adaptation of the musical “Wicked” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The film, from director Jon M. Chu, is due out in theaters on November 27. Part Two of the series comes out a year later, on November 26, 2025.
Here’s the lengthy synopsis of “Wicked” provided by the studio.
“After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event this holiday season.
Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda,...
- 2/12/2024
- by Christopher Rosen
- Gold Derby
Acclaimed actress Michelle Yeoh doesn’t want her newborn grandchild to see ‘Wicked’.
On the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her Netflix series ‘The Brothers Sun’, she asked Yeoh what film of hers she would want her grandson, Maxime, to see first.
Yeoh mused for a while, bringing up her upcoming project, Jon M. Chu’s ‘Wicked’, in which she plays school headmistress Madame Morrible, before ultimately deciding against it, reports Variety.
“I was thinking, I’ve done a musical, ‘Wicked.’ … I play a witch,” Yeoh said, referencing Madame Morrible’s status as a villain and her desire for her grandson to not see her as one.”
“What is not going to traumatise them?” She concluded: “Maybe not one of my movies. Until they’re older.”
Yeoh then joked about audiences witnessing her singing in the upcoming “Wicked” films: “I say, ‘Good luck to you all.’”
The...
On the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her Netflix series ‘The Brothers Sun’, she asked Yeoh what film of hers she would want her grandson, Maxime, to see first.
Yeoh mused for a while, bringing up her upcoming project, Jon M. Chu’s ‘Wicked’, in which she plays school headmistress Madame Morrible, before ultimately deciding against it, reports Variety.
“I was thinking, I’ve done a musical, ‘Wicked.’ … I play a witch,” Yeoh said, referencing Madame Morrible’s status as a villain and her desire for her grandson to not see her as one.”
“What is not going to traumatise them?” She concluded: “Maybe not one of my movies. Until they’re older.”
Yeoh then joked about audiences witnessing her singing in the upcoming “Wicked” films: “I say, ‘Good luck to you all.’”
The...
- 1/6/2024
- by Agency News Desk
- GlamSham
Michelle Yeoh doesn’t want her newborn grandchild to see “Wicked” — or at least, not until he’s older.
On the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her Netflix series “The Brothers Sun,” Variety asked Yeoh what film of hers she would want her grandson, Maxime, to see first. Yeoh mused for a while, bringing up her upcoming project, Jon M. Chu’s “Wicked,” in which she plays school headmistress Madame Morrible, before ultimately deciding against it.
“I was thinking, I’ve done a musical, ‘Wicked.’ … I play a witch,” Yeoh said, referencing Madame Morrible’s status as a villain — and her desire for her grandson to not see her as one. “What is not going to traumatize them?” She concluded: “Maybe not one of my movies. Until they’re older.”
Yeoh then bashfully made a quip about audiences witnessing her singing in the upcoming “Wicked” films: “I say,...
On the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of her Netflix series “The Brothers Sun,” Variety asked Yeoh what film of hers she would want her grandson, Maxime, to see first. Yeoh mused for a while, bringing up her upcoming project, Jon M. Chu’s “Wicked,” in which she plays school headmistress Madame Morrible, before ultimately deciding against it.
“I was thinking, I’ve done a musical, ‘Wicked.’ … I play a witch,” Yeoh said, referencing Madame Morrible’s status as a villain — and her desire for her grandson to not see her as one. “What is not going to traumatize them?” She concluded: “Maybe not one of my movies. Until they’re older.”
Yeoh then bashfully made a quip about audiences witnessing her singing in the upcoming “Wicked” films: “I say,...
- 1/6/2024
- by Valerie Wu
- Variety Film + TV
Something Wicked this way comes, again.
Broadway in Hollywood said today that the Tony-winning smash Broadway musical will return to the Pantages Theatre next year, with its limited engagement starting in December 2024. The organization usually reveals the Hollywood Boulevard venue’s entire season every February, but it got a broom-flying start on 2024-25.
The show is based on Gregory Maguire 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which followed up L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its classic 1939 MGM film. Featuring songs including “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” it looks at what happened in the Land of Oz from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman born with emerald-green skin who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry...
Broadway in Hollywood said today that the Tony-winning smash Broadway musical will return to the Pantages Theatre next year, with its limited engagement starting in December 2024. The organization usually reveals the Hollywood Boulevard venue’s entire season every February, but it got a broom-flying start on 2024-25.
The show is based on Gregory Maguire 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, which followed up L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its classic 1939 MGM film. Featuring songs including “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” it looks at what happened in the Land of Oz from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman born with emerald-green skin who is smart, fiery, misunderstood and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry...
- 10/30/2023
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Nichelle Lewis will portray Dorothy in the upcoming Broadway revival of The Wiz.
The Virginian actress, who was discovered on TikTok and chosen following more than 2,000 submissions for the role, was also announced by producers on Monday as the lead in the upcoming National Tour. Kicking off in Baltimore at the Hippodrome Theatre and running from Sept. 23-30, the tour will continue to previously announced cities across the U.S. before its limited run in New York.
Wayne Brady was previously announced for the role of the Wiz on Broadway, following appearances in San Francisco Golden Gate Theatre and Los Angeles (Feb. 13 – March 3), with Alan Mingo Jr. portraying the role in additional tour cities additional including Cleveland, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, Des Moines, Tempe and San Diego.
The musical also stars Deborah Cox as Glinda; Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene; Kyle Ramar Freeman as...
The Virginian actress, who was discovered on TikTok and chosen following more than 2,000 submissions for the role, was also announced by producers on Monday as the lead in the upcoming National Tour. Kicking off in Baltimore at the Hippodrome Theatre and running from Sept. 23-30, the tour will continue to previously announced cities across the U.S. before its limited run in New York.
Wayne Brady was previously announced for the role of the Wiz on Broadway, following appearances in San Francisco Golden Gate Theatre and Los Angeles (Feb. 13 – March 3), with Alan Mingo Jr. portraying the role in additional tour cities additional including Cleveland, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, Des Moines, Tempe and San Diego.
The musical also stars Deborah Cox as Glinda; Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene; Kyle Ramar Freeman as...
- 8/14/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Stephanie Mills is opening up about her experience playing Dorothy in the Broadway musical The Wiz and all the “hate mail” she received for playing a character that a white woman played before. Mills compares the negativity that Halle Bailey is now experiencing as the star of the live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid.
“As a young Black girl playing the [role] as Dorothy in 7-time Tony Award-winning Broadway play The Wiz, I know what this baby #HalleBailey has been dealing with,” Mills expressed in a Facebook post. “I got so much hate mail, I was told Judy Garland ‘is turning over in her grave.’ All because a little Black girl was playing a [role], that was once played by a white girl.”
The Wiz is an adaptation of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz but influenced by contemporary African-American culture. Mills originated the role of Dorothy in the 1974 musical and seemingly received...
“As a young Black girl playing the [role] as Dorothy in 7-time Tony Award-winning Broadway play The Wiz, I know what this baby #HalleBailey has been dealing with,” Mills expressed in a Facebook post. “I got so much hate mail, I was told Judy Garland ‘is turning over in her grave.’ All because a little Black girl was playing a [role], that was once played by a white girl.”
The Wiz is an adaptation of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz but influenced by contemporary African-American culture. Mills originated the role of Dorothy in the 1974 musical and seemingly received...
- 5/29/2023
- by Armando Tinoco
- Deadline Film + TV
“Real Housewives of Atlanta” stars Kandi Burruss and Todd Tucker have joined the producing team for “The Wiz” musical, producers Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson, Brian Anthony Moreland and Ambassador Theatre Group announced on Thursday.
In a joint statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of ‘The Wiz.’ The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about ‘The Wiz’ is epic!” They continued, saying, “We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people. Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us!”
Also Read:
Tony Awards Predictions 2023: Who Will Win – and Who Should
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by...
In a joint statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of ‘The Wiz.’ The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about ‘The Wiz’ is epic!” They continued, saying, “We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people. Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us!”
Also Read:
Tony Awards Predictions 2023: Who Will Win – and Who Should
Featuring a book by William F. Brown and a Tony Award-winning score by...
- 5/25/2023
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss and husband/entrepreneur Todd Tucker have joined the producing for the Broadway-bound revival of The Wiz, Deadline has learned.
In a statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of The Wiz. The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about The Wiz is epic.
“We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people,” they continued. “Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us.”
The Wiz will be the latest Broadway production credit for Burruss and Tucker, following the recent Tony-nominated revival of The Piano Lesson and last season’s Thoughts of a Colored Man. Burruss also has...
In a statement, Burruss and Tucker said, “We are thrilled to be part of The Wiz. The songs, choreography, costumes, everything about The Wiz is epic.
“We have always said we want to help open the doors of theatre to all people,” they continued. “Theatre has the power to influence and inspire people to create change through art, and that is what we all need now. Art can heal and art can change you. It has changed us. So, come on and ease on down the road with us.”
The Wiz will be the latest Broadway production credit for Burruss and Tucker, following the recent Tony-nominated revival of The Piano Lesson and last season’s Thoughts of a Colored Man. Burruss also has...
- 5/25/2023
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal is moving the release of Wicked Part 1 to Wednesday, November 27, 2024 from its original date of December 25, 2024.
The shift enables the film to take advantage of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and avoid direct tentpole Christmas competition. Part 2 is still scheduled to release on December 25, 2025.
Jon M. Chu is directing the untold story of the Witches of Oz, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The pic is based on the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire and adapted for the screen by the stage production’s book writer Winne Holzman and Oscar-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz.
First introduced to the Great White Way in 2003, Wicked is based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel of the same name — itself based on L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which was previously adapted into MGM’s classic 1939 film of the same name. It’s a prequel to The Wizard of Oz...
The shift enables the film to take advantage of the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and avoid direct tentpole Christmas competition. Part 2 is still scheduled to release on December 25, 2025.
Jon M. Chu is directing the untold story of the Witches of Oz, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. The pic is based on the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire and adapted for the screen by the stage production’s book writer Winne Holzman and Oscar-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz.
First introduced to the Great White Way in 2003, Wicked is based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel of the same name — itself based on L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which was previously adapted into MGM’s classic 1939 film of the same name. It’s a prequel to The Wizard of Oz...
- 3/14/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon was announced in 1973 at a press conference held at the London Planetarium, a spectral site which mirrored the album cover’s beam of light refracted through a triangle into a rainbow. Perhaps the iconic prismatic image provided the initial idea for fans to sync the classic film The Wizard of Oz (1939) to the album’s rock soundscape.
The band’s history with movies is vast and varied. They scored films in the aftermath of the demise and departure of the band’s founder, Syd Barrett. The success of Dark Side of the Moon also helped the group become motion picture producers, investing in the 1975 comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The Wall, directed by Alan Parker and starring Bob Geldof, pushed boundaries and redefined a rock opera on film. And while the bassist/vocalist/songwriter Roger Waters didn’t let Stanley Kubrick...
The band’s history with movies is vast and varied. They scored films in the aftermath of the demise and departure of the band’s founder, Syd Barrett. The success of Dark Side of the Moon also helped the group become motion picture producers, investing in the 1975 comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The Wall, directed by Alan Parker and starring Bob Geldof, pushed boundaries and redefined a rock opera on film. And while the bassist/vocalist/songwriter Roger Waters didn’t let Stanley Kubrick...
- 3/13/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Kenya Barris is working on a new, modern version of "The Wizard of Oz" for Warner Bros. According to an Aug. 15 Deadline report, Barris isn't sharing anything else about the film, except that it's an updated version of the musical. Warner Bros. didn't immediately respond to Popsugar's request for comment.
Barris, who created "Black-ish," continues to be one of the busiest people in Hollywood. He's executive producer of the upcoming Netflix series "Entergalactic," an animated show starring Kid Cudi, Jessica Williams, and Timothée Chalamet. He's also directing his first movie, "You People," for Netflix, to be released sometime later this year. Barris also serves as a writer on the upcoming "White Men Can't Jump" remake starring Jack Harlow and Sinqua Walls.
Of course, "The Wizard of Oz" has received a myriad of adaptations since the first book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," was published in 1900. Perhaps the most famous one...
Barris, who created "Black-ish," continues to be one of the busiest people in Hollywood. He's executive producer of the upcoming Netflix series "Entergalactic," an animated show starring Kid Cudi, Jessica Williams, and Timothée Chalamet. He's also directing his first movie, "You People," for Netflix, to be released sometime later this year. Barris also serves as a writer on the upcoming "White Men Can't Jump" remake starring Jack Harlow and Sinqua Walls.
Of course, "The Wizard of Oz" has received a myriad of adaptations since the first book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," was published in 1900. Perhaps the most famous one...
- 8/15/2022
- by Victoria Edel
- Popsugar.com
Toto, we’re not in the 1930s anymore. Warner Brothers has approved a modern reimagining of the 1939 classic film The Wizard of Oz with Kenya Barris at the helm, Rolling Stone can confirm.
Barris — the beloved creator and writer of Black-ish, Grown-ish, and Mixed-ish — will be tasked with writing, directing, and producing the upcoming film, which will serve as a “modern reimagining” of the original. (Variety described it as a “fresh take” on the classic.)
The planned Warner Bros. film is separate from a previously-planned retelling by New Line. The original film,...
Barris — the beloved creator and writer of Black-ish, Grown-ish, and Mixed-ish — will be tasked with writing, directing, and producing the upcoming film, which will serve as a “modern reimagining” of the original. (Variety described it as a “fresh take” on the classic.)
The planned Warner Bros. film is separate from a previously-planned retelling by New Line. The original film,...
- 8/15/2022
- by Tomás Mier
- Rollingstone.com
Get ready for another trip down the yellow brick road.
On Monday, Variety reported that “Black-ish” creator Kenya Barris is set to write and direct a reimagining of the classic “The Wizard of Oz” for Warner Bros.
Read More: ‘Black-ish’ Creator Kenya Barris Talks Controversial Unaired Episode
Details about the new take on the L. Frank Baum book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz are still under wraps.
The project will follow Barris’s feature directorial debut, “You People”, which he wrote with Jonah Hill and will premiere on Netflix. That film, about a new couple reckoning with the clashing cultures of their families, will star Hill, Eddie Murphy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Nia Long.
Read More: ‘The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz’ Movie From ‘Watchmen’ Director Nicole Kassell Is On The Way
Barris is also writing a remake of the 1992 hit comedy “White Men Can’t Jump”. He had previously written the screenplay...
On Monday, Variety reported that “Black-ish” creator Kenya Barris is set to write and direct a reimagining of the classic “The Wizard of Oz” for Warner Bros.
Read More: ‘Black-ish’ Creator Kenya Barris Talks Controversial Unaired Episode
Details about the new take on the L. Frank Baum book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz are still under wraps.
The project will follow Barris’s feature directorial debut, “You People”, which he wrote with Jonah Hill and will premiere on Netflix. That film, about a new couple reckoning with the clashing cultures of their families, will star Hill, Eddie Murphy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Nia Long.
Read More: ‘The Wonderful Wizard Of Oz’ Movie From ‘Watchmen’ Director Nicole Kassell Is On The Way
Barris is also writing a remake of the 1992 hit comedy “White Men Can’t Jump”. He had previously written the screenplay...
- 8/15/2022
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Somewhere over the rainbow, "black-ish" creator Kenya Barris is working on a new take on "The Wizard of Oz." Deadline reports today that Barris will be writing and directing a "reimagining" of the classic story, with his production company, Khalabo Ink Society, producing.
While no details are currently available about the direction the new film may take, it stands to reason that it will incorporate some aspects from L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," which is now in the public domain. The beloved 1939 "The Wizard of Oz" film, meanwhile, is an MGM production that is still copyrighted (Amazon owns MGM), while Barris' upcoming movie will reportedly be a Warner Bros. project.
The new movie also has a slightly different title: "Wizard of Oz," taking Sean Parker's advice from "The Social Network" and dropping the "The." Still, it seems the project will find a way to...
While no details are currently available about the direction the new film may take, it stands to reason that it will incorporate some aspects from L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," which is now in the public domain. The beloved 1939 "The Wizard of Oz" film, meanwhile, is an MGM production that is still copyrighted (Amazon owns MGM), while Barris' upcoming movie will reportedly be a Warner Bros. project.
The new movie also has a slightly different title: "Wizard of Oz," taking Sean Parker's advice from "The Social Network" and dropping the "The." Still, it seems the project will find a way to...
- 8/15/2022
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
Kenya Barris will write and direct a remake of “The Wizard of Oz” for Warner Bros., an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
The film will be a reimagining of the 1939 masterpiece starring Judy Garland and specifically Frank L. Baum’s original book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”
The “Black-ish” creator’s Khalabo Ink Society banner will also produce the film.
Also Read:
Snoop Dogg and Kenya Barris Team Up on Football Comedy ‘The Underdoggs’ for MGM
“The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” was published in 1900 and became an instant hit, inspiring 13 additional “Oz” books. Considered “America’s greatest and best-loved homegrown fairytale” by the Library of Congress, it has been adapted several times to different media, including the classic 1939 musical film “The Wizard of Oz” starring Judy Garland.
New Line is also working on a separate “Oz” project with Nicole Kassell (“Watchmen”) attached to direct. Marty Bowen and...
The film will be a reimagining of the 1939 masterpiece starring Judy Garland and specifically Frank L. Baum’s original book, “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.”
The “Black-ish” creator’s Khalabo Ink Society banner will also produce the film.
Also Read:
Snoop Dogg and Kenya Barris Team Up on Football Comedy ‘The Underdoggs’ for MGM
“The Wonderful Wizard of Oz” was published in 1900 and became an instant hit, inspiring 13 additional “Oz” books. Considered “America’s greatest and best-loved homegrown fairytale” by the Library of Congress, it has been adapted several times to different media, including the classic 1939 musical film “The Wizard of Oz” starring Judy Garland.
New Line is also working on a separate “Oz” project with Nicole Kassell (“Watchmen”) attached to direct. Marty Bowen and...
- 8/15/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Kenya Barris is taking the yellow brick road to Oz for Warner Bros.’ upcoming “Wizard of Oz” remake.
The creator of “Black-ish” is set to write and direct the reimagining, which is completely separate from New Line’s previously announced retelling of “The Wizard of Oz.” New Line’s version will be directed by Nicole Kassell (“Watchmen”) and is described as “fresh take” on Dorothy and the Land of Oz. Any specifics about Barris’s version have been kept under wraps.
Both projects are based on L. Frank Baum’s beloved book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” which has been retold on the big and small screen many times over the years, the most famous being the classic 1939 musical starring Judy Garland. It follows a Kansas farm girl named Dorothy who is swept away by a tornado and finds herself — and her dog Toto — in the colorful Land of Oz.
The creator of “Black-ish” is set to write and direct the reimagining, which is completely separate from New Line’s previously announced retelling of “The Wizard of Oz.” New Line’s version will be directed by Nicole Kassell (“Watchmen”) and is described as “fresh take” on Dorothy and the Land of Oz. Any specifics about Barris’s version have been kept under wraps.
Both projects are based on L. Frank Baum’s beloved book “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” which has been retold on the big and small screen many times over the years, the most famous being the classic 1939 musical starring Judy Garland. It follows a Kansas farm girl named Dorothy who is swept away by a tornado and finds herself — and her dog Toto — in the colorful Land of Oz.
- 8/15/2022
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
“Wicked,” the movie based on the hit Broadway musical, which is set to star Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, will be split into two parts. The first will be released Christmas 2024 and the second in 2025.
The film’s director Jon M. Chu announced the news on Twitter on Tuesday, saying it would be “impossible to wrestle” the story of “Wicked” into a single movie.
“As we tried to cut songs or trim characters, those decisions began to feel like fatal compromises to the source material that has entertained us all for so many years,” Chu wrote. “With more space, we can tell the story of ‘Wicked’ as it was meant to be told while bringing even more depth and surprise to the journeys of these beloved characters.”
Erivo is playing Elphaba in the film, while Grande will play Glinda in the story of what happened before Dorothy dropped in on the land of Oz.
The film’s director Jon M. Chu announced the news on Twitter on Tuesday, saying it would be “impossible to wrestle” the story of “Wicked” into a single movie.
“As we tried to cut songs or trim characters, those decisions began to feel like fatal compromises to the source material that has entertained us all for so many years,” Chu wrote. “With more space, we can tell the story of ‘Wicked’ as it was meant to be told while bringing even more depth and surprise to the journeys of these beloved characters.”
Erivo is playing Elphaba in the film, while Grande will play Glinda in the story of what happened before Dorothy dropped in on the land of Oz.
- 4/26/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
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