Ariana Grande Defends Iconic ‘Wicked: For Good’ Door Scene
Ariana Grande recently appeared on the “Shut Up Evan” podcast, where she discussed her role in the much-anticipated film “Wicked: For Good.” During her interview, she revealed that there was significant debate about a crucial scene featuring a door that separates her character, Glinda, from Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo. This poignant moment follows the characters’ emotional farewell, with both actresses expressing deep emotion on either side of the door.
A Controversial Scene in “Wicked: For Good”
The door scene has garnered acclaim on social media, becoming a fan favorite. Grande emphasized that director Jon M. Chu strongly advocated for including this shot, despite pushback from certain individuals on the production team. She noted, “It was a really heavy day. There was actually a conversation about… certain people wanted to cut that shot.”
Jon M. Chu’s Vision
Chu recognized the importance of the scene during rehearsals, when he observed Grande and Erivo improvising a farewell. The scene was not part of the original script. He described his emotional reaction, stating, “I started to weep.” The choreography, where the characters place their hands against an imaginary door, became a critical component of their goodbye.
Breaking Genre Rules
Adding to the emotional weight of the scene, Grande mentioned dialogue that had to be defended by Chu. In the Oz franchise, characters traditionally do not express love. However, Grande’s character tells Elphaba, “I love you,” which Chu fought to include. He highlighted the importance of this moment, saying, “It crossed over a boundary of Oz into our world.”
Fan Reception and Impact
Fans have applauded the door shot as a standout instance of Chu’s artistry in directing “Wicked: For Good.” The combination of the heartfelt dialogue and the visual separation creatively highlighted the bond between Elphaba and Glinda. This scene encapsulates the emotional core of their relationship, resonating with audiences worldwide.
The full interview featuring Ariana Grande is available on the “Shut Up Evan” podcast, providing more insights into her experience working on “Wicked: For Good.”
