"I wish people understood just how much work has to go into creating a big, giant behemoth like Wicked," Erivo said. "None of that can happen without his vision. It just isn't possible"

Despite a big Oscar nominations morning, the director and the film’s writers Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox were shut out from the directing and writing categories.

The Palo Alto-born director had a lot to celebrate Thursday morning after his musical fantasy film scored a nomination for the top prize at the Academy Awards.

Among the film’s nominations were best picture, Cynthia Erivo for best actress, Ariana Grande for best supporting actress, best costume design and best original score. However, Jon M. Chu was shut out of the directing category.

Michelle Yeoh has revealed the cast of 'Wicked' have been "crying" after the film's director Jon M. Chu failed to receive a nod in the Oscars nominations despite the movie landing a slot in the Best Picture category amid a slew of other nominations.