Disney is gearing up to make another movie out of a Broadway musical - and it's something you've been waiting for!
Yes, after the success of "Into the Woods," Disney is set to make a film adaptation of "Wicked," which is also expected to have a 2016 release.
Talking to Film Divider, "Into the Woods" producer Mark Platt announced the news:
"[A 2016 release date] is the goal, but I don't know whether we'll make that goal or not. We will make the movie, but like I said, the bar is really high. We're going to scrutinize our work on the screenplay and our prep on the movie, and when we feel like it's ready, okay. We're not going to shoot a release date is what I'm saying. It's in the works, it's not in a rush. It took 27 years to make 'Into the Woods' into a film from its original stage production, and 30 years with 'Les Mis.' Some things take time for a reason."
Platt was also the producer of the original Broadway production of "Wicked," who also confirmed the screenwriter and director of the upcoming film.
"My So-Called Life" and "Huge" TV shows writer Winnie Holzman is currently working on the screenplay, while "Billy Elliot," "The Reader," and "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" director Stephen Daldry will take the helm.
According to MoviePilot:
"No cast members have been announced yet, but Lea Michele is among the fans' top choice to play Elphaba. Even 'Wicked's' lyricist Stephen Schwartz agrees that she would be a great choice."
"Wicked" first made its debut on Broadway back in 2003. Kristin Chenoweth played the role of Glinda, while "Frozen" star Idina Menzel took on the role of Elphaba.
The broadway production tells the story of Glinda the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West back when they were still in school. "Wicked" is a prequel to "The Wizard of Oz."
The musical became the 11th longest-running show in Broadway history, and still even runs shows until today. Not only that, but "Wicked" is also one of the top-grossing Broadway shows of all time.
