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A Glimpse Behind the Magic of Wicked
The magic of Wicked has captivated audiences around the world, drawing them into the enchanting land of Oz. From the moment the film begins, viewers are transported to a vivid and immersive experience that feels almost tangible. The sense of realism is so strong that it’s easy to forget that everything takes place on a meticulously designed film set. Director Jon M. Chu recently shared a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most impressive sets in the film: the dorm room. His post gave fans a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship that brought this magical world to life.
In an Instagram post, Chu highlighted the efforts of the hundreds of artisans and production designers who worked tirelessly to create the world of Oz. He emphasized how much effort went into making everything look natural and lived-in, even though it was entirely man-made. One of the most striking examples of this is the dorm room set. Chu shared a photo of the set, which appears to be a cozy bedroom on screen but is actually a small, heavily constructed space. The ceiling of the set barely reaches the tops of the crew members’ heads, making it clear that the room is much smaller than it seems.
This tiny space poses a challenge for actors like Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who had to perform some of Wicked‘s most emotionally powerful songs in such a confined area. It’s hard to imagine how they managed to deliver such impactful performances in such tight quarters. Despite the challenges, the result is nothing short of amazing.
The Complexity of Production
Chu also mentioned that the production had to be logical and practical in its approach, as the team was essentially shooting two films at the same time. The first Wicked movie featured a variety of rooms, set pieces, and characters that all needed to feel cohesive. The sequel, For Good, which released in 2025 and received several Golden Globe nominations in 2026, also boasts impressive sets. Chu praised the dedication of his crew, noting the immense amount of work required to bring these elements together.
"Our job is to make it look simple and easy… but on the set of Wicked shooting two movies at the same time with live singing and musical numbers and VFX and special effects and costumes and hair and make up and stunts and props and the emotional intimacy of the acting… there was never a day of simple and easy," he wrote. "Couldn’t be more proud of every cast and crew member that brought this magical world of Oz to life for the world to enjoy."
The Art of Set Design
Even though the dorm room was a small, isolated set, it still felt connected to the rest of the world of Oz. This construction allowed the filmmakers greater control over lighting and how the scenes would be shot. These controlled environments were crucial in making Oz feel real, as they enabled the creative team to focus on details and craft a visual language that resonated with audiences.
The level of detail and care put into every aspect of the film is evident in the final product. The actors were able to maintain their emotional connection to their roles despite the many moving parts involved in the production. It’s a testament to the skill and dedication of everyone involved.
Where to Watch
Fans can check out these incredible sets in action by watching Wicked: For Good, which is currently playing in some theaters nationwide. Those who missed the original Wicked film can revisit it through a Prime Video subscription. Additionally, the 2026 Golden Globes will air tonight, January 11 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS, where For Good may be recognized for its achievements.