Wicked continues to take the world by storm, quickly positioning itself as one of the year’s most successful releases and breaking the record for the highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation. Behind the captivating visuals is a powerhouse team vital in bringing the sensational story to life. In an exclusive Q&A with Laurie Rose, BSC, cinematographer Alice Brooks, ASC, takes us behind the lens and shares insights into her creative process. Together, they discuss the film’s memorable moments, collaborations with fellow filmmakers, and her experience working with Senior Colorist Jill Bogdanowicz.

Brooks explains how integral color was to the process: “Knowing how very specific color was going to be on this movie, I first went through a detailed process at Company 3, searching for the right dailies colorist, [Lucy Barbier].” She notes, “I hired Jill once we were in post-production. The interview process was long, but one pivotal moment stands out—Jill came to watch the rough assembly in our small editorial screening room in LA. It was just the two of us, and she was visibly moved—laughing and crying as the film played. Her face was completely red at the end. She said, ‘I have to do this movie.”

She highlights the significant time and effort invested in establishing the right creative relationship. She explains, “Jill and I spent a full year before we even touched a frame, having long breakfast conversations about art and aesthetics. Jill’s background as a painter really helped guide those discussions, giving the film an even deeper emotional resonance.”

Check out the full interview below.