Wicked: For Good’s New Looks Teased By Costume Designer: “Cinema Hasn”t Seen Anything Quite Like It”

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The upcoming film ‘Wicked: For Good’ appears to be a stunning follow-up to the first movie’s critical and commercial success, and the design team is eager for audiences to experience their work. Drawing inspiration from both the original film and the broader worlds of ‘Wicked’ and ‘The Wizard of Oz’, the costumes in ‘Wicked: For Good’ have a remarkable level of detail and feel genuinely authentic.

At LightBox Expo in Pasadena, California, Ebaster interviewed Paul Tazewell, the Oscar and BAFTA Award-winning costume designer, and Darrell Warner, a costume concept artist, about how they developed the costumes for Wicked and Wicked: For Good, and how they captured the magical feeling of Oz in their designs.

Something Wicked This Way Comes

As a film fan, I always appreciate the teamwork behind a great movie, and it sounds like it really paid off for the costume and makeup teams on this one. Initially, they were working across the Atlantic from each other, but getting everyone together in the same room was a huge boost. Paul Tazewell mentioned it was actually a really emotional experience just being able to collaborate face-to-face with Darrell Warner and the rest of the crew. He’d already worked with some of them here in the US, but having the whole team together was something special.

Working with the team was great, even though we had to connect over Zoom. But honestly, having Darrell physically present, being able to bounce ideas off him and see his incredible, hands-on approach to world-building… that was a real gift. For me, filmmaking is all about those human connections, and that’s what truly shaped the final film.

Tazewell emphasized the value of their teamwork, explaining that Warner consistently offered fresh perspectives and helped refine his ideas into workable plans for the production team. He described the entire process as a truly positive experience.

Warner emphasized that a collaborative spirit was key to his work, particularly because he and his team prefer traditional illustration methods over digital design. He explained, “Paul really appreciates our focus on handmade techniques – he understands and supports the use of watercolor and drawing. That’s what makes it so great.”

Warner frequently met with Tazewell to brainstorm ideas, and always appreciated his positive attitude and willingness to work together, which made the movie-making process smoother. Warner explained, “It’s unusual to find someone who truly understands and supports the vision of artists and illustrators like we do.”

Designing the costumes for Wicked: For Good was more challenging than for the first movie because the team had to consider so much history. They didn’t just need to update the original film’s looks, but also draw inspiration from the popular Broadway musical Wicked and the classic designs of characters like Dorothy, which added extra pressure.

Tazewell explained that the core of their design-focused storytelling was fully immersing themselves in the world of Oz. They consistently sought ways to deepen the story of the two women and their connection, ensuring it felt authentic to Oz’s established culture while also enriching it.

We aimed to tell the story in a completely fresh way, while still honoring what fans loved about previous versions. That’s why people seem to connect with our films – they feel a sense of nostalgia for earlier interpretations, but are also excited by our unique approach.

Warner believes the costumes in Wicked: For Good are a remarkable achievement, showcasing a unique visual language created by Paul. He feels this detailed approach to character development through costume design is something rarely seen in film, and it creates a visually stunning experience.

How Wicked Emrbaces The Legacy Of Oz

Reflecting on the effort put into Wicked: For Good and how the costumes developed from previous designs, Tazewell mentioned there was “probably nine months” of preliminary work before filming began in London. He added that “a lot evolved from the initial concept we developed.”

Tazewell explained that they drew inspiration for the language, rules, and overall look of this fantastical world from sources like The Wizard of Oz and Broadway shows. However, they ultimately shaped these inspirations into their own unique vision for the world.

Both Wicked and Wicked: For Good include numerous hints and references to the story’s established history. However, Tazewell emphasized that any borrowed elements had to feel natural and logical within the context of the films. As he put it, “When you’re using that kind of language or backstory, it still needs to make sense. If you’re going to reference something, it needs to fit the film you’re creating.”

As a film buff, I always appreciate when a creative team really nails a unique visual style. The costume designer explained that this process helped them figure out how to honor past work while still forging their own path. They wanted a look and feel that was distinctly for the film – something different from what you’d typically see in a stage production. Ultimately, it allowed them to tell a much richer and more expansive story through the visuals.

Warner explained that Paul’s changing expressions became a way of communicating with the audience. However, the show still includes hidden details for dedicated viewers. “There are subtle touches – like small details in the costumes or set design – that are fun to find if you’re really paying attention,” Warner said.

Tazewell pointed out that the real power of the work lies in its lasting impact. It’s not just about watching the film; people are actively seeking it out and continuing to connect with the visuals and the artistry long after they leave the theater. It provides ongoing enjoyment and a deeper emotional experience for the audience.

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2025-10-26 00:02