Universal’s much-anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway hit “Wicked” has made an impressive mark following its global debut, projected to rake in around $165 million by the end of this weekend. This substantial box office performance highlights the film’s appeal, with North America contributing a significant portion of approximately $117 million, while the international box office adds around $48 million. Such figures set “Wicked” apart as an iconic moment in cinematic history, specifically as a pioneer in film adaptations derived from Broadway musicals.
The figures indicate that “Wicked” has achieved the highest opening weekend for a film drawn from a Broadway show, surpassing “Les Misérables,” which previously held the title with $103 million. Furthermore, this marks the sixth largest global opening of 2024 and the fourth largest for any musical film worldwide. This milestone showcases not only the film’s commercial success but also its profound cultural resonance in the world of entertainment.
While “Wicked” is basking in success, it is worth noting that its international debut is somewhat limited at present—opening in only 61 overseas markets, which constitutes 65% of its potential footprint. Notable markets like China, France, Germany, and Japan have yet to release the film, which indicates that even higher earnings are possible in the upcoming weeks. Despite this limited rollout, the film is anticipated to perform excellently in like-for-like launch markets, solidifying its status as a frontrunner among Broadway adaptations, outpacing even “Les Misérables.”
The international box office projections reveal that “Wicked” has also achieved notable milestones, positioning itself as the sixth highest opening weekend for a musical in international markets, surpassing performances by films such as “Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again.” The overseas earnings of $48 million underline the global appeal and expectation that this film will continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The UK appears to be particularly captivated by the lead performances of Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, with an expected $15 million in earnings through Sunday. As the first overseas major market to release the film, the UK saw a remarkable opening day of $4.9 million, commanding a whopping 63% of the total box office share. This performance marks the second-largest opening Friday across the industry for 2024 and is Universal’s largest opening day since “No Time To Die” back in September 2021.
The unprecedented buzz surrounding “Wicked” was bolstered by “record-breaking pre-sales,” which were previously likened to the stunning ticket sales for the blockbuster film “Barbie.” Such comparisons not only illustrate the film’s anticipated success but also hint at its place within the cultural fabric of the current cinematic landscape. The IMAX experience has further elevated the film’s appeal, boasting the highest-grossing opening Friday for a PG-rated film in that format.
It is crucial to recognize that “Wicked” is not the only contender vying for box office success, as it faces competition from other films currently in theaters, such as “Gladiator II” by Paramount and Ridley Scott. That sequel had commenced its international rollout the previous weekend, propelling its global earnings past $200 million. The industry’s dynamics reveal a complex environment where numerous blockbuster releases are simultaneously engaged in a tug-of-war for box office supremacy.
Universal’s “Wicked” has cast a powerful spell on audiences both domestically and internationally with its phenomenal box office performance and strong lead performances. As the film continues to expand into markets that have yet to release it, the financial and cultural implications for a Broadway adaptation showcased on the silver screen are bound to deepen, further establishing its legacy in modern cinema. The anticipation is palpable as audiences are eager to experience the enchanting world brought to life in this remarkable adaptation.
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