As I delve deeper into the captivating world of these extraordinary artists, I find myself in awe of their journeys and the unique ways they have left their indelible marks on the entertainment industry.
Cynthia Erivo, an actress of remarkable talent and grace, has risen to become a box office star with her powerhouse performances, most notably as Harriet Tubman in “Harriet”. Her journey is a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion that drives artists like her.
Ariana Grande, on the other hand, has established herself as a versatile artist outside the recording industry. With her captivating performances in films like “Wicked”, she continues to prove her versatility and commitment to her craft.
Jon M. Chu, the director of “Wicked”, seems poised to become an even more in-demand filmmaker with his upcoming projects. His ability to bring stories to life in a way that resonates with audiences is truly commendable.
Their lives and careers are a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and a little bit of luck. They each have a unique story to tell, and I can’t wait to see what they do next.
In closing, I must add that as much as I admire their work, I can’t help but chuckle at the thought of Cynthia Erivo carrying her thermos and gummy vitamins on set – a reminder that even the most formidable stars have their quirks!
Witnessing Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande together is a captivating spectacle of contrasts. Despite their constant visibility on social media and television screens, as fans eagerly follow their joint press tour for the film “Wicked,” it’s challenging not to be spellbound. In a New York City studio in December, these two new co-stars, born in London and Boca Raton respectively, pose for photographs. Erivo presents an air of quiet strength, embodying her character Elphaba, yet off-camera she transforms into a vivacious individual, cheering on director Jon M. Chu as he takes individual shots: “Give me Calvin Klein, Jon!” she exclaims. “C’mon, profile! Work!” Immediately, Chu seems to grow taller, straightening his posture and tilting his chin ever so slightly.
Instead of constantly pausing, Grande appears to always be crooning. Her singing style varies, encompassing tracks like Whitney Houston’s “Higher Love” and Mariah Carey’s “Always Be My Baby”. The voice she uses here seems slightly distinct from the one that brought us hits such as “Thank U, Next” and “God Is a Woman”. In a manner reminiscent of her character Galinda, she sings in a more operatic tone, with her consonants being articulated more sharply than they would be on a Grande album.
Later on, wearing a puffy coat to keep warm against the cold in our room and sipping from a large icy coffee, Grande muses over her freshly acquired voice – a reminder that despite finishing filming, she’s still very much in the magical land of Oz.
Grande mentions that perhaps people don’t fully understand how long it took for us to locate and immerse ourselves in these characters. When some specific nuances or behaviors linger, people might mock us. However, we had a role to play, and we needed to focus on our tasks – as the script demanded, because we had aspects to lose ourselves in.
Ariana Grande’s latest speaking style seems to exude an old-school charm reminiscent of a 1940s movie star, complete with a confident and crisp tone. She expresses that this new vocal quality might persist, as she found it necessary for her character, Galinda. “Some things may fade,” she says, “but I’m grateful for the parts that will remain forever. It’s such a beautiful thing to hold onto, and to feel the echo of every day.” After a lengthy pause, she adds humorously, “Oh, and by the way, I’m still on the hunt for my eyebrows. I’ll let you know if I find them – I hope not!” As she continues to evolve her appearance throughout her career, Ariana’s current dainty, honey-blond eyebrows are a holdover from her Galinda days.
If the dominance of “Wicked” in popular culture has shown anything, it’s probably that these women (Grande, Erivo, and Chu) will continue their search. For them, “Wicked” hasn’t departed from Oz, and neither have we. With over $600 million earned at the global box office so far, four Golden Globe nominations, a chance to win Oscars, and a sequel titled “Wicked: For Good” approaching, “Wicked” has given its shade of green a prominence similar to how Mattel’s pink became iconic with Barbie. It has taken a known property, targeted it towards underrepresented female audiences, and allowed the world to rediscover its story in an entirely new perspective.
The Broadway play “Wicked,” which is based on Gregory Maguire’s novel about Elphaba, the misunderstood villain of “The Wizard of Oz,” has been an incredible hit for many years. Originally performed in 2003 as a collaboration between Marc Platt, Stephen Schwartz, and Winnie Holzman, “Wicked” quickly surpassed the popularity of “Cats” among a new audience. However, producer Marc Platt was initially hesitant about turning it into a movie, despite owning the film rights before the musical was even written.
The opportunity hadn’t felt completely ripe yet: As soon as the stage performance got underway, Platt admits, “I realized the expectations would be sky-high. I wanted to have the self-assurance that it would be as fantastic as possible, and I found that slightly intimidating.
The selection of Chu, renowned for helming “Crazy Rich Asians” and the movie musical “In the Heights,” which suffered a significant setback due to altered moviegoer habits following peak COVID, broadened horizons. According to Platt, his intuition for filmmaking, particularly in camera movement and film flow, is highly musical – a skill that can’t be taught.
At the core of “Wicked”‘s achievement lies an exceptional collaboration, a bond formed prior to their work together even starting on set.
As a long-time fan of both Grande and Erivo, I must say that I am thrilled to see them finally share more about the production of their film after it has been released. Having followed their careers for years, I can attest to their passion and dedication towards their craft. It’s heartening to see them feeling liberated and ready to delve deeper into the making of the movie, as if they are eager to share every last detail that hasn’t yet been revealed. I can only imagine how exciting it must be for them to finally have the world at their fingertips, ready to discuss and analyze their work. As a fellow artist myself, I completely understand the joy and satisfaction that comes from being able to open up about one’s creative process. It’s a testament to their talent and commitment that they can still find new ways to engage with their fans even after the film has been released. I eagerly anticipate hearing more from them about the production, as I know it will only deepen my appreciation for their artistry.
Take the tabloid rumor that Grande got paid more than Erivo — much more. Not so.
As I pored over the contractual details alongside my fellow film enthusiasts, I couldn’t help but share my thoughts: “Did you catch that scene? What was your take on it?” We found ourselves in agreement: “Let’s collaborate and explore this further!
Universal Pictures, who distributed the movie “Wicked”, chose an uncommon step in November by releasing a statement emphasizing that all actors were paid equally across the films. Director Chu explained further, seated beside Grande and Erivo in a chic black suit. He stated, “This is a contemporary production. This is what Hollywood should embody. These women are the co-leaders of ‘Wicked’, Inc.
Both of us experienced it – ‘Which number are we tackling? What are your thoughts on that?’ We were extremely open and truthful, which is quite uncommon,” Erivo explains. “And that’s truly exceptional because most people aren’t this candid.
Grande expresses that despite our differences, when we’re engaged in an activity like this, her requirements feel like my own,” she explains.
Erivo, not breaking Grande’s gaze, replies, “And her needs become mine.”
They’ve relied heavily on each other: Since the extensive production of both halves of the “Wicked” tale in 2023, Erivo and Grande have traveled around the world to discuss their characters’ journeys. The tears visible in some interviews have left audiences quite surprised. Are these two actresses looking after themselves?
Grande remarks, ‘We’re doing well.’ She expresses her deep sense of gratitude and pride in our ability to stay present. Many have approached us, concern etched on their faces, asking, ‘How are you coping?’ We simply look at each other and respond with a shared feeling of thankfulness and buoyancy.
“We had a good time,” Erivo adds.
Even now, tears well up again. As Grande and Erivo discuss their mutual support, her eyes begin to glisten with unshed tears.
As someone who has spent years in the entertainment industry, I can relate to the emotional rollercoaster that actress Ariana Grande is experiencing in this moment. The pressure of constantly performing and the vulnerability required to truly connect with an audience can be overwhelming. In my own career, I’ve had moments where I felt like I was putting on a facade for the world, hiding my true emotions behind a smile or a laugh.
But what Grande expresses here is something that goes beyond the surface-level experiences of acting. She speaks to the profound privilege and humanity that comes with working alongside others who care about both the work and each other. It’s easy to get caught up in the glitz and glamour of show business, but moments like this remind us all that it’s not just about the end product – it’s about the connections we make along the way.
In my experience, I’ve found that these moments of emotional openness are some of the most powerful and meaningful in my career. They help me to connect with my audience on a deeper level and remind me why I fell in love with acting in the first place. So when I watch Grande’s interview, I see not just an actress struggling to hold back tears, but a fellow artist who is embracing her vulnerability and sharing her humanity with the world. And that, to me, is truly inspiring.
Her speech has become increasingly hurried, which suggests that she’s still clinging to the voice of Galinda. This is evident even when she starts to lose her composure. In the midst of this, Chu steps in to complete her thought, stating, “I believe we’ve needed this movie just as much as the world needs it.
Without a doubt, this project is Chu’s dream come true – an opportunity for the film-loving son of immigrant parents to create his own epic tale and potentially encounter some real-life heroes. As he puts it, “Directing can be a solitary profession, but I’ve been receiving so many heartwarming calls from other directors – something I’ve never experienced before.” The highlight for this Star Wars enthusiast was a recent FaceTime call with George Lucas himself. Chu recounts, “He said he understood the challenges of managing all those elements, and suggested we get together. My response? ‘Absolutely! Where do I send the invite?’
As a passionate movie enthusiast, I couldn’t help but exclaim, “I’m out here!” It’s no secret that the upcoming film adaptation of “Wicked” is a dream come true for me. I had the incredible fortune of witnessing the stage show as a child, with Idina Menzel portraying Elphaba and Kristin Chenoweth playing Galinda – both of whom make appearances in the movie. For Cynthia Erivo, taking on the role of Elphaba was more than just acting; it was a profound representation of overcoming adversity.
The Ozdust Ballroom sequence, where Elphaba walks into a party only to realize she’s being ridiculed and shunned, struck a particularly deep chord with Erivo. As she puts it, “I recently had a conversation with a friend this week, and he asked me if I was bullied. This scene gave me the chance to revisit those feelings, process them, and share them once more.
During our subsequent discussion, Grande revisits the topic of the sequence, specifically mentioning the opening flash-forward scene in the movie where Glinda, having ascended as Glinda the Good Witch, torches an Elphaba effigy. She explains that it was as challenging to light up Elphaba repeatedly as the intensity of the Ozdust felt for her. After the emotionally resonant song “For Good,” which concludes the sequel and serves as its title, the sequence was filmed. In this scene, Elphaba and Galinda express their eternal friendship, but Grande found it difficult to portray hostility towards her co-star in such a manner. She admits that Chu’s quiet urging of “be strong” was the only thing that helped her endure lighting up Elphaba over and over again.
“We were really in it,” Grande says, “and really lost in the sauce.”
The story of ‘Wicked’ finds an unexpected relevance at this time, given its theme of women banding together against oppressive power structures. This isn’t surprising, considering that Maguire’s original novel from 1995 was influenced by his observations of media manipulation during the first Gulf War, and the stage musical in 2003 was interpreted by some as a critique of George W. Bush during the subsequent conflict. In this adaptation, Goldblum’s character, The Wizard, fails to persuade Elphaba to join his plot to subjugate Oz’s animals and instead portrays her as a villain in the eyes of the gullible townspeople.
Reflecting back on the creation of our groundbreaking production, I, as one of its writers, admit that certain aspects of the Wizard were inspired by none other than Bill Clinton. However, as events unfolded, the real-world political landscape took a dramatic turn with the commencement of the Iraq War, propagated through misleading information. If musical theater indeed had the power to shape our world, I firmly believe we would be residing in a more enlightened society today. Regrettably, the underlying political themes remain strikingly relevant.
Following his re-election as President, Donald Trump’s era is the backdrop for the movie that reflects the times, and Ariana Grande humorously remarks that it’s centered around the theme of … “authoritarian rule.
Real-world political turmoil and “Wicked” seem to go together as well as, well, green and pink. “When ‘Wicked’ first came out on Broadway, I remember the people in my life having that exact discussion,” Grande continues, reflecting on Elphaba and Galinda’s unlikely, and politically instructive, friendship. “It’s time for people to say, ‘Oh, how can I be a better ally?’ Because that’s how we’ve always survived. We’ve always been able to survive with those friendships and those allies.”
The reasons behind the film’s blockbuster status as a tale about a green-skinned witch, surprisingly tagged as the most politically charged contender for Oscars, are evident. As Erivo points out, “What resonates with me is the fact that people crave it. It empowers individuals to consider themselves capable of making a difference. Though it may not be effortless, it’s certainly achievable. This empowering message seems to seep into everyone.
Although the film doesn’t directly address the 2024 election, its creation was influenced by the broader theme of navigating turbulent periods. As Chu explains during the initial stages of COVID-19, “During our filming, there was an unsettling sense of change in the air.” The question posed by “Wicked” is profound: “Once you understand the truth, are you prepared to relinquish your advantages for the sake of someone else?” So far, the movie’s response to this question – on a societal level – isn’t optimistic, as the people of Oz seem susceptible to manipulation through propaganda and falsehoods. However, it implies that individuals possess the ability to instigate change themselves.
In a unique shift, Erivo’s role signifies change of its own kind. On stage, only one Black woman has portrayed Elphaba – Alexia Khadime, from 2008 to 2010 in London and in a performance that persists till now. “I was aware of the long chain of history preceding me,” Erivo explains, “and I had to shoulder that burden while letting it go. My task is to embrace it, comprehend it, respect it, and then forge my own path. If I’m trying to replicate what came before, then I’m not contributing anything new.
Since “Wicked” has been running on Broadway for over two decades, each tune is now familiar to fans who have repeatedly listened to the original cast recording. Therefore, a delicate balance was essential when creating something new while still respecting the past. While recording “Defying Gravity” for rehearsal purposes, Erivo initially imitated the version sung by Idina Menzel from the original Broadway cast, which is transcribed as “ah-AHHH-ahhh!”.
She was told by Schwartz and musical director Stephen Oremus, “Great job! So, what’s your next move?” or “She heard Schwartz and Stephen Oremus say, ‘Excellent. Now, what’s your contribution?’
She explains that she persisted in attempting something, until at last, it seemed familiar to her. She questions what sound she would emit naturally. That was the sound she produced. Erivo’s rendition carries a more profound anguish than the initial version and resonates with a few additional emotions along the way. It’s quite dramatic, as one might expect.
Grande interjects, “You mentioned you persisted, but I was present, and it seemed like the second or third attempt.” She chuckles, then swiftly changes tone to a dramatic Broadway-like seriousness. “It wasn’t far beneath, simply ready to surface. What you needed was the go-ahead signal. You didn’t keep trying; that was all yours.
Initially portraying adversaries within their college dorm setting, where Grande embodied a sarcastic bully and Erivo took on the role of a solitary outcast, they eventually found common ground in their shared ambition to personalize “Wicked.” Erivo gave a unique twist to “Defying Gravity,” while Grande refused industry pressure to over-commercialize her solo number, “Popular.
In the original remix, Ariana Grande explains, the beat was hip-hop inspired drums, but it wasn’t intended to mimic her pop tracks. Instead, she wanted a contemporary twist for the song. To put it gently and with respect, she stated, “Definitely not!” Considering Galinda Upland’s character, she doesn’t possess that rhythm at all. She’s as plain as can be.
As someone who has been part of many collaborative projects over the years, I can attest that the key to a successful collaboration is mutual understanding, respect, and open communication. In my experience, when team members genuinely care for each other, they are able to navigate through disagreements with grace and find common ground.
In the case of Grande and Jon, their long-standing relationship seems to have played a crucial role in resolving their differences amicably. The fact that they were able to meet in the middle shows that they value each other’s input and are committed to making the project successful. This kind of collaboration is not only beneficial for the work itself but also fosters a positive and productive working environment.
In my opinion, nothing is more rewarding than being part of a team where everyone feels heard and respected, and nothing has to be withheld. When truths are openly shared, it leads to growth, innovation, and ultimately, a better final product. It’s clear that Grande and Jon have built a strong foundation of trust and mutual respect over the years, and I am excited to see what they will create together in the future.
Despite not explicitly stated in the original story, Ariana Grande, known as a gay icon within the pop music scene, has added her own interpretation to the character of Galinda. She believes that Galinda exhibits qualities that suggest she might be queer, explaining, “I think she’s a person who loves so much, and I do believe that love transcends gender in Oz. I also believe that the intense love she shares with Elphaba, their forgiveness, and unconditional love – I believe they’re in love with each other.” However, she quickly clarifies, “Yes, it’s platonic…”, before catching herself and adding, “But we’ll delve deeper into this in the sequel.
In my years of following awards shows, I must say that the Oscars never fail to bring excitement and anticipation. This year, Chu, Grande, and Erivo are all shaping up to be strong contenders, but let me tell you a story from my own experience that might give some perspective. You see, I still remember when “Wicked” lost the Best Musical Tony to “Avenue Q”. Everyone was convinced it would take home the award, but it didn’t. Yet, despite not winning, “Wicked” remains one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had in a theatre. So, while predictions can be made, sometimes things don’t go as planned and the real magic lies in the journey itself.
When asked about awards, Erivo admits she often doesn’t know how to respond. She explains that they are not the reason for her existence. However, it should be noted that she has already won a Grammy, an Emmy, and a Tony for her role as Celie in ‘The Color Purple’, leaving only an Oscar to achieve EGOT status. Erivo expresses her desire to continue creating remarkable work and expanding the opportunities for women who resemble her in film. Her recent first-look deal with Universal and her production company, Edith’s Daughter, should help her accomplish this goal.
Erivo continues, ‘Perhaps it could yield benefits that extend beyond just creating a film; perhaps it could truly enrich our lives.’ She questions, ‘Couldn’t we aim for even more?’
As a film enthusiast, I couldn’t agree more. In fact, I eagerly anticipate being part of the audience for every bit of it! However, Miss Elphaba, your accolades are well-deserved, and I can hardly wait to assist you as you achieve that coveted EGOT – not to mention your gummy vitamins and thermos. After all, the resourceful Erivo always comes prepared, mindful of her powerful voice that resonates even in the farthest reaches of a Broadway theater.
In the original stage production of “Wicked”, both leading actresses were nominated for Tonys, with Menzel, portraying Elphaba, taking home the award. For the movie adaptation, Grande is nominated in the category for supporting actress. She expresses her gratitude, stating, “I’m just honored to have supported Cynthia’s performance and be a part of this.” Turning to Erivo, she adds, “The role I played in this film, the supporting character, friend, sister to the extraordinary work you’ve done, is otherworldly.
Erivo expresses admiration effortlessly. “I’ll cause quite a stir if she doesn’t receive her nomination. Navigating through something as complex as this, especially for the first time, is incredibly challenging.
Grande’s voice has an extra Galindan quiver; her lip twitches slightly. “That’s very kind.”
As a huge fan of classic comedy and a fellow actress who knows the challenges and triumphs that come with being in the spotlight, I can truly appreciate the talent and resilience of Lucille Ball. When Erivo described her as “the return of that,” it resonated with me deeply. Seeing someone bring such life to a character that was once iconic, yet still feels fresh and relevant today, is a testament to both the timelessness of Ball’s work and the skill of modern performers like Erivo.
It filled my heart with joy to learn that Ball found happiness in this role, and it brings me even more joy to see Erivo embracing her own passion for the craft. The love and dedication that goes into bringing a beloved character back to life is something I can relate to, and it’s a beautiful thing to witness. Kudos to both Lucille Ball and Cynthia Erivo for their incredible work!
“I love you,” Grande murmurs. “That’s very kind.”
No matter the outcome in March, all parties involved have experienced significant and lasting changes in their careers: Erivo, nominated for an Oscar in 2019’s “Harriet,” has now become a successful box office performer. Meanwhile, Grande has successfully ventured beyond the music industry. Chu is poised to become an even more sought-after director; indeed, two upcoming projects — adaptations of the musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and Britney Spears’ memoir “The Woman in Me” — have been announced. As for those films, Chu says, “I wait until someone tells me it’s time to be made. There is an urgency in both, but I must concentrate on movie two.
As a film enthusiast, I must admit that the latter half of “Wicked” takes a more intricate, somber, and complex turn. It’s not as sweet and vibrant as songs like “Popular” or “Dancing Through Life”. However, I believe if viewers are following the emotional journey of this movie, they’ll find themselves walking with us through its depths.
Fans of the series might be eagerly looking forward to “For Good,” a song where the momentarily reconnected witches share what each one means to the other, much like how people eagerly awaited Erivo’s powerful performance of “Defying Gravity” last year.
Grande cautiously describes the events preceding and following it as quite an immersive experience, ‘a feast for the senses,’ so as not to reveal too much. At one moment, she recalls feeling detached from her body and floating for almost a full week.
Erivo remarks, her voice fading away, as there are numerous promotional duties still ahead for her, followed by the opportunity next year to delve deeply into ‘For Good’. At present, she can only offer a glimpse with, ‘That was intense.’
Cynthia Erivo: Styling: Jason Bolden; Makeup: Joanna Simkin/The Wall Group; Dress: Carolina Herrera: Ariana Grande: Styling: Mimi Cuttrell/A Frame Agency; Makeup: Michael Anthony/Opus Beauty; Hair: Gabor Kerekes; Dress: Christian Dior; Jon Chu: Styling: Liat Baruch; Hair: Eleazar Baltazar; Grooming: Su Han Naeem
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2025-01-02 19:19