Fresh Air
'Wicked' Director Jon M. Chu On The Hard Work Of Creativity
Jul 24, 2024
Jon M. Chu, renowned for directing 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'In the Heights,' shares his creative journey shaped by his immigrant roots in Silicon Valley. He reflects on the inspiration drawn from his father, a restaurant worker, and the importance of adaptability in storytelling. Chu discusses the challenges he faced as an Asian American director and the influence of musical theater, particularly 'Wicked,' on his work. He also shares a pivotal moment with Steven Spielberg that reshaped his career and emphasizes the significance of a supportive creative environment.
45:28
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Quick takeaways
- Chu draws inspiration from his Chinese immigrant father's hard work, valuing kitchen heroes.
- Chu's career evolution reflects embracing his cultural heritage and prioritizing inclusive storytelling.
Deep dives
Impact of Silicon Valley on John M. Chu's Career
John M. Chu's upbringing in Silicon Valley during the tech boom greatly influenced his career in filmmaking. From being an early adopter of digital technology due to his exposure in the tech industry, Chu's tech know-how proved beneficial in his film career. However, he also became disillusioned with the tech industry's impact on movie viewing habits, preferring theater experiences over at-home viewing.
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