Director Jon M. Chu has opened up about the political themes and emotional depth in Wicked: For Good, the upcoming sequel to the 2024 hit film Wicked. Speaking at a private event in Brooklyn on October 27, 2025, Chu emphasized the film’s contemporary resonance, noting how its storyline reflects the struggle of standing up to power and confronting uncomfortable truths. The screening, attended by Ariana Grande and members of the Broadway and touring casts, marked one of the first public viewings before its official November 17 premiere.
What Happened — The Event and Screening
In the last two weeks, Chu has viewed Wicked: For Good multiple times to ensure consistency across different formats. However, the Brooklyn screening was the first time he experienced it with an audience. The private dinner, hosted by Gold House and OpenTable at Win Son, included guests like Darren Criss, Stephanie Hsu, Ronny Chieng, Laufey, and Melissa King. Chu described the energy in the room as “electric,” particularly when cast members turned to Ariana Grande, who plays Glinda, to applaud her after each musical number.
Chu’s parents also attended, taking a night off from running their renowned Silicon Valley restaurant, Chef Chu’s. Gold House, an organization promoting Asian Pacific voices, previously honored Chu for his contributions to representation in Hollywood.
Chu’s Reflections — Quotes and Themes
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Chu said he now feels “a sense of release” after holding onto the project for nearly five years. Comparing the sequel’s challenges to the first film, he noted that while the 2024 release carried the burden of establishing the world, Wicked: For Good gave him the freedom to expand its emotional and political reach.
“It’s about who we are when we know the truth,” Chu said. “What happens when the home you thought you knew isn’t built for you anymore? Can belief and reality coexist?”
Chu explained that the film stays faithful to the Broadway storyline but “goes deeper” into moral ambiguity and self-discovery.
“We’re both wicked and good all at the same time,” he added. “This movie is for people brave enough to stand for what they believe — and for those too scared to leave their bubble.”
Impact and Cultural Significance
Chu emphasized that Wicked: For Good aims to engage with today’s social and political climate, focusing on truth, power, and accountability. With Wicked already a cornerstone of modern musical storytelling, the sequel’s exploration of moral duality could resonate deeply with audiences navigating polarized times.
The director’s commitment to nuance and inclusivity reflects his ongoing advocacy for diverse narratives, aligning with his previous work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights. Early audience reactions from Broadway veterans have been overwhelmingly positive, hinting at another critical success for Universal Pictures.
What’s Next
The official premiere of Wicked: For Good is scheduled for November 17, 2025, with global release dates to follow. As early screenings continue, attention will turn toward audience and critic responses. Chu remains confident: “We’ve built something that speaks to the world we live in right now.”
Source List
The Hollywood Reporter
Yahoo Entertainment
Gold House Official Press Notes
Universal Pictures Media Kit
