Scriptnotes Podcast 712 - Something Wicked This Way Comes
10 snips
Nov 18, 2025 Dana Fox, a screenwriter and showrunner known for hits like The Lost City and Cruella, joins to discuss adapting Wicked and its sequel, Wicked: For Good. She reveals the challenges of turning a beloved stage musical into films, detailing the decision to split the story into two parts. Dana shares the complexities of filming both movies simultaneously and the emotional weight of pivotal songs. The conversation also touches on the contemporary relevance of the story and the personal toll of production, providing a unique glimpse into the Hollywood musical machine.
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Brought In As A Collaborative Writer
- Dana Fox recounts being brought into the Wicked film by John Chu and learning the project had already been set as two movies.
- They spent many collaborative Zoom sessions breaking both films before writing began.
Split When Structure Demands It
- Split large adaptations when a single film can't contain essential emotional and musical beats.
- Outline two distinct films and treat Defying Gravity as a natural midpoint to end film one.
Cross-Boarding Raises The Stakes
- Shooting two films simultaneously forces absolute precision because both must succeed before release.
- Cross-boarding requires sensory and scheduling tricks so cast can switch roles mid-day.
