Jon M. Chu Explains Why Dorothy’s Face Remains Hidden in Wicked: For Good

Director Jon M. Chu has revealed the deliberate creative choice to keep Dorothy’s face hidden in Wicked: For Good. The decision was made to keep the film’s focus squarely on the story of the two witches, Glinda and Elphaba. This approach was a key part of the filmmaking process from the very beginning.

Chu confirmed this intention in a recent discussion with Business Insider. He explained that showing Dorothy fully would have distracted from the central narrative. The team strictly followed a guiding principle from the original stage production.

The Creative Process Behind the Silhouette

The unique approach started during the audition phase. According to Chu, candidates performed behind a sheet so the team could judge their silhouette. This method helped them find a performer with the right youthful energy and physicality for the role.

They ultimately cast dancer Bethany Weaver as Dorothy. The director confirmed they filmed scenes showing her face as a contingency. However, every test proved that a clear view of Dorothy pulled focus away from Elphaba and Glinda’s emotional journey.

Staying True to the Wicked Legacy

This creative choice reinforces the core theme of the Wicked story. The narrative has always been about the complex friendship between the two witches. Dorothy’s arrival in Oz is merely the catalyst that tests their bond.

The film still includes iconic moments involving the character. Audiences see the house fall on the Wicked Witch of the East and the fateful bucket of water. Yet these events are framed through the perspectives of Glinda and Elphaba, maintaining the film’s central focus.

The strategic decision to obscure Dorothy in Wicked: For Good ensures the spotlight stays on the witches. This bold move honors the musical’s original spirit. It provides a fresh cinematic perspective on a beloved story.

Thought you’d like to know

Who plays Dorothy in Wicked: For Good?

The role is performed by dancer Bethany Weaver. Her face is intentionally never fully shown on screen. The filmmakers prioritized her physical presence over her identity.

Why was Dorothy’s face hidden in the movie?

Director Jon M. Chu stated it was a creative choice to avoid distraction. The story is centered on Glinda and Elphaba’s relationship. Showing Dorothy’s face shifted focus away from the main characters.

Were any scenes filmed showing Dorothy’s face?

Yes, the director confirmed they shot additional scenes as options. These scenes revealed the actress’s face clearly. In the editing room, they consistently found these moments disrupted the narrative flow.

How does this choice affect the story?

It keeps the audience’s attention firmly on the two witches. The film emphasizes their emotional journey above all else. Dorothy remains a plot device rather than a primary character.

What was the guiding principle for this decision?

The creative team adhered to advice from the stage production. They were consistently reminded that “it’s about the girls.” This mantra guided all major filmmaking choices.