Filmmaker Adam McKay has said he wouldn't be surprised if "Wicked" is banned in "in 3-5 years" given the current political climate in the U.S.
Taking to X, the Oscar-nominated director of "Don't Look Up" referred to Part 1 of Jon M. Chu's hit film, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, as "one of the most radical big studio Hollywood movies ever made." The second half of the musical epic is set to hit theaters Nov. 21, 2025.
"I know Part 2 swings back to the center a bit," he said, "but Part 1 is nakedly about radicalization in the face of careerism, fascism, propaganda.
"What's really striking about 'Wicked' Part 1 is that it's coming out NOW when America has never been more right wing and propagandized," McKay continued. "And yes, I know the theatrical production and the book are much older so part of the timing is a coincidence but still..."
Replying to another surprised X user who had not yet seen the film, McKay wrote, "I think you'll be shocked. If America keeps going on the track it is I wouldn't be surprised to see the movie banned in 3-5 years."
McKay drew comparisons between "Wicked" and several classic films from the 20th century, such as "The Sound of Music," "Citizen Kane," "Bridge on the River Kwai," and "The Searchers."
"This is off the top of my head so I'm sure I'm forgetting a half dozen other 'radical' big Hollywood movies," he continued, adding "The Hunger Games," which he described as "incredibly left-wing."