When it comes to crafting memorable moments in film, director Jon M. Chu believes that AI alone cannot replicate the magic of human creativity and spontaneity. The 2025 Broadway production "Wicked: For Good" showcases a pivotal scene where Elphaba (played by Cynthia Erivo) winks at the camera as she puts on her witchy cape. While an advanced AI system may be able to analyze this moment, it cannot replicate the impact of Erivo's genuine expression.
Chu attributes this phenomenon to the value of practical sets and improvisation in filmmaking. The ability for actors to bring their own unique energy to a scene, unscripted, is what makes cinema so beautiful. AI can gather information and organize data, but it lacks the human touch that comes with experience and intuition.
The director also acknowledges his long-standing relationship with technology, which has made him somewhat open-minded towards its role in filmmaking. While AI's potential for gathering information and organization is fascinating, Chu recognizes the importance of practicality and spontaneity on set. This approach allowed "Wicked" to connect with fans on a deeper level.
Ultimately, it's the human element that sets great cinema apart from merely impressive technology. Director Jon M. Chu understands this, and his willingness to collaborate with actors and crew in a way that fosters creativity and spontaneity has resulted in unforgettable moments like Elphaba's iconic wink.
Chu attributes this phenomenon to the value of practical sets and improvisation in filmmaking. The ability for actors to bring their own unique energy to a scene, unscripted, is what makes cinema so beautiful. AI can gather information and organize data, but it lacks the human touch that comes with experience and intuition.
The director also acknowledges his long-standing relationship with technology, which has made him somewhat open-minded towards its role in filmmaking. While AI's potential for gathering information and organization is fascinating, Chu recognizes the importance of practicality and spontaneity on set. This approach allowed "Wicked" to connect with fans on a deeper level.
Ultimately, it's the human element that sets great cinema apart from merely impressive technology. Director Jon M. Chu understands this, and his willingness to collaborate with actors and crew in a way that fosters creativity and spontaneity has resulted in unforgettable moments like Elphaba's iconic wink.
! The stats are insane - did you know the original 2003 Broadway production of Wicked had over 9 million viewers? 
Now it's breaking box office records again in 2025, with a global audience of over 15 million people 
. And let's talk numbers - Cynthia Erivo's performance has been viewed over 20 billion times on social media alone! 
That's a whole lotta magic right there!