The film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical Wicked has shattered records, claiming the top-grossing opening weekend for any musical adaptation in North America, the UK, and Ireland. The highly anticipated film earned an estimated $114 million (£90.6 million) in its opening weekend in North America, surpassing Les Misérables, which held the previous record with $103 million globally in 2012.
A Magical Debut Across the Globe
In the UK and Ireland, Wicked is also casting a spell at the box office, with forecasts predicting $17.6 million (£14 million) in earnings, solidifying its position as the top-grossing opening weekend of 2024.
The film’s incredible debut comes alongside the release of Gladiator II, making this past weekend the most lucrative pre-Thanksgiving weekend at the North American box office since 2013, according to the Boxoffice Company.
Breaking Down the Numbers
- *North America: *Wicked amassed $46.48 million (£37 million) on Friday, which includes Thursday premieres, followed by $36 million on Saturday.
- UK and Ireland: The $17.6 million opening weekend sets a benchmark for 2024’s film releases.
The Legacy of Wicked
Wicked, based on Gregory Maguire’s novel that reimagines the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz, has captivated audiences for decades. The stage musical debuted on Broadway in 2003 and has been a staple of the West End since 2006. Its film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and featuring a star-studded cast, was one of the most anticipated releases of the year.
A Boost for Musical Adaptations
The success of Wicked is a testament to the enduring popularity of musical adaptations. With strong performances at the box office, the film highlights the universal appeal of musicals and their ability to draw audiences across generations.
What’s Next for Wicked Fans?
The incredible opening weekend numbers signal a strong run for Wicked in the weeks to come, especially as it approaches the festive season, traditionally a lucrative time for films. With its record-breaking debut, Wicked has set the stage for future musical adaptations to follow in its footsteps.
The box office success serves as a reminder of the magic and power of storytelling—and that even after two decades, Wicked is still defying gravity.
