Podcast Summary: "With 'Wicked,' Director Jon M. Chu Writes His Own Story"

Introduction

In this episode of NPR's Consider This, host Ailsa Chang delves into the creative journey of Jon M. Chu, the acclaimed director behind blockbuster films like Crazy Rich Asians and the upcoming adaptation of the Broadway sensation Wicked. The discussion not only highlights Chu's latest project but also explores his personal background, identity, and the evolving landscape of Asian representation in Hollywood.

Overview of Wicked

Wicked, a 20-year-old Broadway hit, reimagines the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz by flipping the narrative to portray the Wicked Witch of the West as a misunderstood protagonist. The film features a star-studded cast, including Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba (the Wicked Witch), Ariana Grande as Glinda (the Good Witch of the North), and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz. Jon M. Chu brings his unique directorial vision to the project, promising a fresh perspective on a beloved story.

Interview with Jon M. Chu

Early Life and Upbringing

Jon M. Chu shares insights into his upbringing in Los Altos, Silicon Valley, highlighting the cultural assimilation his parents prioritized. His parents, Chinese immigrants who owned the renowned Chef Chu's restaurant for over five decades, emphasized "Americanness" to help their children fit into American society. Chu recalls, "My parents... wanted us to feel like we belonged the way she didn't at first" (06:35).

Asian American Identity and Representation

Chu discusses the challenges of growing up as an Asian American in a community where Asian identities were often homogenized. "There wasn't really the term Asian American... It was just like, oh, you're Chinese, basically" (08:32). This lack of differentiation underscored the complexities of his identity, where he often felt caught between his heritage and the societal expectations placed upon him.

Filmmaking Journey and Crazy Rich Asians*

Reflecting on his path to becoming a filmmaker, Chu attributes much of his success to the burgeoning Asian American community and the increasing demand for authentic representation in media. His pivotal role in Crazy Rich Asians marked a significant milestone, bringing an all-Asian cast to a mainstream Hollywood blockbuster for the first time in decades. This project not only resonated with audiences but also paved the way for more diverse storytelling in the industry.

Embracing Storytelling and Wicked*

Chu explains how his personal experiences and growth as an Asian American storyteller influence his approach to Wicked. He aims to "flip [The Wizard of Oz] to see it from a new view of a person of color, a person of green who is looked at as so different that everyone thinks they're wicked" (12:04). This reimagining serves as a metaphor for marginalized communities striving to redefine their narratives and assert their identities.

Memoir Viewfinder*

In addition to his directorial ventures, Chu discusses his new memoir, Viewfinder: A Memoir of Seeing and Being Seen. He describes it as a culmination of his life lessons and personal stories, providing deeper context to his work and the themes he explores in his films. "This is sort of a way for me to get to Wicked through my own story" (12:04), Chu explains, emphasizing the intertwining of his personal journey with his professional projects.

Personal Reflections and Parent-Child Dynamics

Chu opens up about his parents' initial skepticism regarding his passion for filmmaking. He recounts a pivotal moment when his mother confronted him for staying up late editing videos instead of studying, leading to a heartfelt conversation about following one's passion. "This is America, the greatest place in the world. You could do whatever you want if you love it" (09:05). This exchange marked a turning point, garnering his parents' support and reinforcing his commitment to storytelling.

Conclusion

Jon M. Chu's journey from a young filmmaker in Silicon Valley to directing major Hollywood projects underscores the importance of representation and authentic storytelling in contemporary cinema. His work on Wicked promises to challenge traditional narratives and offer new perspectives, reflecting his dedication to reshaping the landscape for marginalized voices in film. Through his memoir and upcoming projects, Chu continues to inspire and advocate for a more inclusive and diverse media environment.

Notable Quotes

• "My parents... wanted us to feel like we belonged the way she didn't at first." — Jon M. Chu (06:35)
• "There wasn't really the term Asian American... It was just like, oh, you're Chinese, basically." — Jon M. Chu (08:32)
• "Flip it to see it from a new view of a person of color, a person of green who is looked at as so different that everyone thinks they're wicked." — Jon M. Chu (12:04)
• "This is America, the greatest place in the world. You could do whatever you want if you love it." — Jon M. Chu (09:05)

Final Thoughts

This episode of Consider This offers a comprehensive look into Jon M. Chu's artistic and personal evolution. For listeners unfamiliar with his work, it provides valuable insights into the motivations behind his projects and the broader implications of his contributions to film and representation.