Now in its third weekend of release, Universal’sWickedcontinued its phenomenal box office run, especially in domestic theaters. The movie braved competition not once, but twice, and this weekend, pushed its running total pastmassive new milestones both stateside and overseas. That being said,Wickedhas been struggling in international markets, with several theories being floated as to why. Directed byJon M. Chu, the film is an adaptation ofthe landmark Broadway musicalof the same name, which was based on the book byGregory Maguire, which itself was inspired by the works ofL. Frank Baum.
There is built-in IP recognition at play here, but audiences in overseas markets haven’t flocked to theaters with the intensity that domestic crowds have. Nevertheless, the movie finallypassed the $100 million milestone internationallythis weekend, whilepassing the $300 million mark domestically. Its cumulative global haul now stands atan impressive $455 million. Produced ona reported budget of $150 million,WickedstarsCynthia ErivoandAriana Grande.
Wickedopened oppositeRidley Scott’sGladiator IIin a hotly-anticipated face-off, which it ended up comfortably winning. In its second weekend, it fended off a spirited challenge in the form of Disney’sMoana 2, which set new Thanksgiving records. Already among the year’s top-grossing films,Wickedhas alsobroken records for Broadway musical adaptations, and is projected to earn over $500 million domestically in the long run. Movies released at this time of the year typically deliver incredible multiples, andWickedis showing every sign of following suit.
‘Wicked: Part 2’ Will Be Released Next Year
Themovie opened to excellent reviews, and even better audience response. It holds a “fresh” 89% rating on the aggregator websiteRotten Tomatoes, as well as an incredible 96% audience score.In his review, Collider’sJeff EwingdescribedWickedas “an incredible cinematic musical outing and easilyone of the year’s best films.” Filmed back-to-back witha second installmentset for release in November next year,Wickedcan be seen in theaters. Stay tuned to Collider for more updates.
The story of how a green-skinned woman framed by the Wizard of Oz becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. The first of a two-part feature film adaptation of the Broadway musical.
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