Universal Pictures has launched its highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway sensation, Wicked, and the response has been nothing short of phenomenal. Projections indicate that the film is on track to amass approximately $165 million globally over its opening weekend, with a commendable $117 million coming from the domestic box office in North America and $48 million from international markets. This performance not only marks Wicked’s entry into the cinematic arena but also cements its status as a formidable presence in the film industry.
Wicked is poised to achieve a historic milestone as it claims the title for the largest opening weekend ever for a movie derived from a Broadway musical adaptation. It surpasses previous record-holders such as Les Misérables, which debuted at $103 million. Furthermore, this opening secures Wicked a place among the most significant film launches in 2024, ranking it as the sixth-largest debut worldwide. When looking at musicals specifically, it stands as the fourth-largest opening weekend globally, surpassing the figures achieved by films like The Little Mermaid, which grossed $163.6 million.
While the film’s international rollout is still in its early stages—debuting in only 61 markets and capturing about 65 percent of the anticipated overseas audience—the initial results are promising. Notable territories such as France, China, Germany, and Japan have yet to unveil the film, indicating a potential surge in earnings once these markets open. Even in the available markets, Wicked is outperforming its Broadway counterparts, especially in regions where it has launched, marking a significant achievement over Les Misérables.
Among the international box office figures, the UK stands out as a key player. Here, the film is expected to earn over $15 million and has already taken a substantial $4.9 million on its opening day alone, dominating with a staggering 63 percent share of the total box office. This performance marks the second-biggest opening Friday of the year and highlights Universal’s best opening day since the James Bond film No Time To Die in September 2021. The excitement doesn’t stop there; IMAX has reported record-breaking results for Wicked among PG films, showcasing the film’s appeal across various formats.
Hailing from a vibrant pre-sales environment, which CEO of Vue, Tim Richards, indicated was trending similarly to Barbie last year, the film’s reception in Australia has also been noteworthy. Achieving the third-largest opening day of 2024, Wicked’s success showcases the global love for musical adaptations.
In South Korea, where the cultural affinity for musicals runs strong, Wicked has generated approximately $3.3 million through Saturday, maintaining an impressive 94 percent audience approval score. Meanwhile, Mexico celebrates the film’s debut as the largest opening day for any stage musical adaptation to date, again emphasizing the universal appeal of Wicked’s story and music.
As we look into the broader cinematic landscape, it is essential to note the ongoing competition from other major releases, such as Gladiator II. Despite the latter’s ongoing successes from its prior weekend launch, Wicked’s stunning debut positions it well to dominate box office discussions in the following weeks.
Wicked’s meteoric rise is not just a reflection of its nostalgic roots in Broadway but also a signal of a broader shift in audience preferences towards musical adaptations in film. As more countries prepare to embrace Wicked in the coming weeks, all indicators suggest that it will continue to enthrall viewers around the globe, potentially setting the stage for a new era in musical cinema.
With its eye-catching performances, captivating story, and an impressive launch, Wicked is more than just an adaptation—it’s a cultural phenomenon poised to leave an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. As cinemas around the world prepare for the film’s full release, the anticipation surrounding this groundbreaking musical remains palpable, igniting excitement among fans old and new.
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