Exploring the innovative techniques and meticulous craftsmanship behind Nathan Crowley’s Oscar-nominated production design for "Wicked," this article delves into how the film transported audiences to a fantastical world with minimal reliance on visual effects. From constructing massive sets to planting millions of tulips, every detail was meticulously crafted to create an immersive experience.

Unveiling the Magic: Crafting Realism in Fantasy

The Power of Authenticity

Nathan Crowley, renowned for his work on Christopher Nolan films, embarked on a unique challenge with "Wicked." He sought to blend practical set design with just enough VFX to bring the magical land of Oz to life. This approach aimed to evoke the charm of classic filmmaking while meeting modern cinematic standards. Crowley’s vision was rooted in creating tangible environments that actors could genuinely interact with. By finding real locations that mirrored an American fairy tale—vast farmlands and sprawling cornfields—he laid the foundation for sets that felt authentic yet whimsical. For instance, Munchkinland, Shiz University, and the Emerald City were built to scale, enabling cast members to fully immerse themselves in their roles. These sets not only provided a backdrop but also influenced the entire crew’s perception of the film.The process began with scouting landscapes that could anchor the set pieces. Once identified, the team constructed elaborate structures like the library’s spinning wheels and Glinda and Elphaba’s dorm room. Each set required careful attention to detail, ensuring that it not only served its narrative purpose but also enhanced the actors' performances. The dorm room, for example, played a crucial role in pivotal scenes such as “Popular” and “What Is This Feeling?” Its intricate design allowed for seamless integration of choreography and character development.

The Grandeur of the Emerald City

Among the most challenging set pieces was the Emerald City, which took 15 weeks to design and build. Spanning two backlots, this green wonderland had to be both unexpected and familiar, striking a balance between fantasy and realism. Crowley aimed to create a whimsical dream that audiences would instantly recognize and embrace.The city featured “Americana”-style arches inspired by the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, serving as transition points between different parts of the set. These arches facilitated grandiose framing shots, showcasing the vastness and majesty of the Emerald City. The centerpiece of the city was the fountain in front of the Emerald Palace, which rotated during dance sequences, adding a dynamic element to the film.Building the Emerald City involved more than just architecture; it required creating an entire ecosystem. Barley fields were planted long before the train set was even conceived, ensuring that the landscape was lush and ready when needed. The train itself, measuring 106 feet long, 16 feet high, and weighing 40 tons, added another layer of authenticity to the scene. It transported the protagonists through the barley fields, further enhancing the immersive experience.

Inspiration from Past Projects

Crowley’s extensive experience in musicals like "The Greatest Showman" and "Wonka" proved invaluable for "Wicked." These projects prepared him for the intricacies of working with dancers and integrating large-scale backlot builds into fantasy settings. "The Greatest Showman" taught him about the mechanics of musical productions, while "Wonka" expanded his understanding of fantasy worlds.For "Wicked," Crowley drew upon all his previous work, combining elements from various genres to craft something entirely new. He emphasized that this project was the culmination of his career, stating, “It’s the biggest thing I’ve ever done, and that’s saying something.” His dedication to practical set design, combined with cutting-edge technology, resulted in a film that captivated audiences and earned him an Oscar nomination.

The Journey to Shiz University

Shiz University presented its own set of challenges. Located near a water tank, the university’s arrival dock, water tank, and entrance courtyard were meticulously constructed to reflect American architectural styles. The journey to Shiz was carefully planned to ensure it felt integral to the story. Given the absence of trains and cars in Oz, the characters traveled by waterways, adding a unique twist to the narrative.Crowley explained, “There’s a journey to get to Shiz, but you can’t go by train because that belongs to the wizard, there are no cars, and an air balloon also belongs to the wizard. It was obvious: We have to go by waterways, but that caused its own problems.” Despite these challenges, the team found creative solutions, ensuring that each element of the set contributed to the overall storytelling.