Jon M. Chu Signs First-Look Film and TV Deal with Paramount Skydance

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Acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu has entered a new chapter by signing a multi-year first-look deal with Paramount Skydance, a studio led by David Ellison. This partnership signifies a notable transition for Chu, who recently gained recognition for his direction of the musical blockbuster Wicked: For Good at Universal Pictures.

Previously, Chu collaborated with Warner Bros., where he directed successful films such as Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights. His new role places him among an elite group of creative talents at Paramount Skydance, which includes noted figures like Matt and Ross Duffer, James Mangold, and Will Smith.

Details of the new deal

The three-year agreement, effective from January 2, establishes that Chu and his production company, Electric Somewhere, will operate directly from the Paramount lot. They will collaborate closely with key executives, including Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, co-chairs of Paramount Pictures, along with Don Granger, president of the Motion Picture Group, and Matt Thunell, president of Paramount Television Studios.

Successes of ‘Wicked: For Good’

As Chu transitions to this new role, the success of Wicked: For Good continues to dominate the box office, generating an impressive $393.3 million globally. This figure includes approximately $270 million from domestic markets and $122 million internationally. The film has also garnered critical acclaim and awards buzz, paralleling the accolades of its predecessor, which received two Oscars from ten nominations.

In its opening weekend, Wicked achieved the largest global opening for a Broadway adaptation, further solidifying its status in cinematic history. With stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande leading the cast, the film has captivated audiences worldwide and has been recognized as one of the ten best films of the year by the National Board of Review.

Future projects in the pipeline

Looking ahead, Jon M. Chu has an exciting list of upcoming projects across various studios. He is set to direct a biopic about Britney Spears for Universal, as well as a live-action adaptation of the Hot Wheels franchise at Warner Bros. Additionally, he will helm an animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved book Oh, the Places You’ll Go, featuring voice talents like Grande and Josh Gad. Another musical adaptation on his agenda is Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, promising more theatrical magic for audiences.

Highlights from the recent celebration

In conjunction with the film’s success, a celebratory event was held at The Aster hotel in Hollywood, hosted by Baz Luhrmann and Colleen Camp. This intimate gathering attracted VIPs, including actress Charlize Theron and studio chairperson Donna Langley, who came to honor the achievements of Wicked: For Good. The evening commenced with a screening of the film followed by a cocktail reception.

Musical performances and industry insights

During the event, Grande and Erivo delighted the audience with a performance of the title song For Good and a medley of Get Happy/Happy Days Are Here Again, which holds historical significance in musical theater. Their performances were introduced by Chu and Luhrmann, who expressed admiration for the film’s cultural impact and the challenges inherent in bringing a live-action musical to life.

Luhrmann shared his insights on the rigorous process of making a successful musical, emphasizing that while audiences may perceive it as fun, it requires immense effort to achieve a resonant outcome. Chu echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of creativity and emotional connection in the filmmaking experience.

Reflecting on his journey with Wicked, Chu noted how it compelled him to dream bigger and emphasized the collaborative spirit that fueled the project, stating, “It makes you have to dream. It forces you to dream bigger than you think you can.” This sentiment resonates with the heart of the musical, which aims to inspire audiences to embrace their true selves.