Universal’s latest cinematic endeavor, “Wicked,” has soared to enchanting heights with a stunning global debut projected to earn $165 million by the end of the weekend. This significant revenue reflects the film’s ability to resonate with audiences worldwide, signaling a strong performance in both domestic and international markets. As anticipated, the majority of this financial magic is materializing within North America, where the film is expected to pull in a remarkable $117 million by Sunday, while the international box office contributes an impressive $48 million to the coffers.
This milestone marks “Wicked” as the foremost opening weekend for a film based on a Broadway adaptation, surpassing previous prominent entries, such as “Les Miserables,” which garnered $103 million. Beyond its record-breaking status in musical adaptations, it is also noteworthy as the sixth highest opening weekend worldwide in 2024, underscoring its monumental success in capturing the imaginations of moviegoers.
While the international figures are commendable, “Wicked” has yet to make its mark in significant markets, including France, China, Germany, and Japan. Currently, it has been released in 61 overseas territories, accounting for 65% of its international footprint. Notwithstanding this strategic rollout, the film’s projections position it favorably against its Broadway ancestors, making it the leading contender in similar launching markets when compared to titles like “Les Miserables.”
The projected $48 million in international earnings positions “Wicked” as the sixth-largest opening weekend for a musical in global box office history, unseating even popular titles like “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.” This pattern indicates that while “Wicked” is just beginning its journey in various markets, it is already creating a significant impact in regions that have embraced its captivating narrative.
Regional Highlights and Performances
The film’s performance in the United Kingdom represents a particularly vivid example of its magnetic appeal. With an expected weekend earning exceeding $15 million, the UK and Ireland markets embraced “Wicked” passionately. The film experienced an outstanding opening day, raking in $4.9 million across 2,250 screens, ultimately capturing a commanding 63% share of the total box office. This remarkable statistic can also be noted as the second-largest opening Friday of the year to date, surpassed only by the highly anticipated “Deadpool & Wolverine.”
Alongside its success in the UK, other international markets are also experiencing “Wicked’s” spellbinding effects. Australia’s audience has also responded favorably, with the movie achieving the third-largest opening day of 2024. In South Korea, known for its affinity for musicals, the film has already generated $3.3 million, accompanied by a high customer satisfaction score of 94% on the CGV Egg platform. Mexico has recorded the most robust opening day for any stage musical adaptation to date, asserting its dominance as the undisputed number one title in that market.
As “Wicked” continues to charm audiences with its spellbinding performances and remarkable storytelling, it is well positioned to maintain momentum. The ongoing international play of competing titles, such as Paramount’s “Gladiator II,” will create a dynamic landscape for the box office in the upcoming weeks. However, the impressive opening weekend results indicate a strong foundation for “Wicked” to build upon, potentially securing its place as a defining musical in cinema history.
The global movie landscape has welcomed “Wicked” with open arms, cementing its forecast as a groundbreaking adaptation. As theaters fill with eager audiences, the film not only celebrates musical heritage but charts a promising path forward for future adaptations, reminding us of the enduring magic of the stage and its profound influence on cinema.
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