How Fantasy Epic Wicked Unexpectedly Channels… The Truman Show and Pleasantville?!

How Fantasy Epic Wicked Unexpectedly Channels... The Truman Show and Pleasantville?!

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of fantasy and musical theater, I am beyond excited for the upcoming adaptation of “Wicked.” The film promises to delve deeper into the complexities of Oz, exploring themes of bigotry, rebellion, and self-discovery that resonate deeply with my own experiences.


The enchanting, yet harshly brutal land of Oz will be vividly depicted when director Jon M. Chu’s highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked premieres in cinemas this November. Originating from the critically acclaimed, Tony Award-winning Broadway musical (inspired by Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel), the movie explores a more complex and detailed rendition of the magical universe that young Dorothy was transported to via tornado from Kansas over eight decades ago.

In a world that’s plagued by prejudice, the story unfolds in a version of Oz where those who don’t conform to the standard are met with discrimination. Our protagonist, Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo (The Outsider), is ostracized due to her unique green complexion. Meanwhile, speaking animals like Doctor Dillamond, the goat instructor from Shiz University (voiced by Peter Dinklage of Game of Thrones fame), face exclusion and mockery to such an extent that they are forced to create their own secret meeting places, such as the Ozdust Ballroom.

How Wicked channels The Truman Show and Pleasantville

As a devoted fan, I can’t hide my excitement when I say that what I truly yearned for was the hidden side of Oz – you know, the secret lair where all the magical creatures gather! It’s a unique space with its own animal orchestra. (Quote from Chu during an interview with Entertainment Weekly)

This spot is also known as a hidden escape for students from Shiz University when they’re feeling a bit rebellious and restless. Through these experiences, they gain insight into a deeply flawed system that needs reform. Chu likened this disillusionment to the protagonists in classic films who venture out of their sheltered lives to encounter the intricate beauty of a larger world.

The director went on, “This concept encourages the notion of rebellion among the newer generation. How deep will this rebelliousness impact everyone in Oz throughout the entirety of both films? It’s a generational awakening. To me, it resembles elements of ‘Pleasantville’ and ‘The Truman Show’. Gradually, they start to realize the truth about things that they may have been taught differently.

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When does Wicked open in theaters?

Moviegoers can expect to enter the magical world of Oz when the movie adaptation of “Wicked” hits theaters on November 22. Director Jon M. Chu guarantees an unforgettable experience, leaving viewers feeling elated with a deep bond formed between themselves and characters Elphaba and Glinda (portrayed by Ariana Grande).

Meanwhile, the upcoming sequel is planned to premiere in cinemas approximately one year later, specifically on November 21, 2025.

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2024-09-23 20:01