AsJon M. Chubrings the latest big-screen installment toL.
Frank Baums ever-expanding universe, hes reflecting on the societal shifts that have historically punctuated adaptations ofOz.
The Wizard of Ozwas always sort of prophetic in a way.
Jon M. ChuGetty Images
It was written at a time of America in transition, Chu toldNBC News.
At that point, the Depression had just finished and theyre about to go into war.
WhenWickedcame around, it was a re-examination of that, said Chu.
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo inWicked.Universal Pictures/Everett Collection
That was right after 9/11 and about to go into war.
So another time where America is in transition.
This is the road we travel, he explained.
And theres no yellow brick road and then maybe no wizard.
How does it know that we would be going through this?
We were questioning all the stories of America, of the world.
What does a hero look like?
What does a villain look like?
