Universal Pictures’ adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical “Wicked” has made an extraordinary impact on the film industry with its recent global debut projected at a staggering $165 million by the end of the weekend. This figure is particularly remarkable as it is expected to be split between the domestic market, which should generate around $117 million, and international ticket sales amounting to approximately $48 million. Such impressive numbers not only position “Wicked” as a dominant player in the current cinematic landscape, but also as a significant cultural event, further enriching the narrative of adaptations transitioning from stage to screen.
Particularly noteworthy is the film’s accomplishment of achieving the highest opening weekend ever for a film based on a Broadway adaptation. This milestone surpasses previous record-holder “Les Miserables,” which opened at $103 million. “Wicked” now sits proudly among the most successful cinematic debuts in 2024, making it the fourth highest opening weekend for a musical globally, eclipsing even “The Little Mermaid,” which garnered $163.6 million. Such statistics not only highlight the film’s immediate success but also suggest a growing interest in musical adaptations that harness both the nostalgia of live theater and the expansive reach of motion pictures.
While “Wicked” has found substantial success in North America, its international allure also holds significant promise. Currently, the film is playing in just 61 international markets, accounting for only 65% of its offshore potential. Notable markets like China, France, Germany, and Japan have yet to see the film’s release, indicating that “Wicked” may continue its box office ascent in the coming weeks. The early projections suggest that in markets where it has debuted, “Wicked” could attract similar success to its Broadway counterpart, as it competes in like-for-like conditions. The initial $48 million international estimate places the film as the sixth highest opening ever for a musical overseas, a testament to its wide-reaching appeal.
In the UK, where the film launched on Friday, it quickly established itself as the number one title with an estimated $15 million opening weekend. The film’s opening day, pulling in an impressive $4.9 million from 2,250 screens, represents a 63% share of the total box office—a clear demonstration of audience interest. This figure stands out as the second biggest opening Friday of the year, trailing only behind “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Additionally, it showcases Universal’s largest opening day since the release of “No Time to Die,” and underlines the anticipation and excitement surrounding this musical adaptation.
Australia also welcomed “Wicked” with open arms, resulting in a strong opening and the third biggest day at the box office for 2024. Numbers indicate the film’s resonance with audiences in Korea, attracting a robust attendance and high ratings; a 94% score from audiences supports its targeted musical demographic. Meanwhile, Mexico’s opening day shattered records for a stage musical adaptation, repeating the film’s clear dominance in regional markets. These trends indicate a focused marketing strategy that resonates well with potential viewers across varied demographics and cultures.
As “Wicked” takes an impressive stance in the film industry, its combination of critical acclaim, box office success, and the impending releases in major markets suggest that the musical’s journey is far from over. With its already established records and substantial audience engagement, the film presents a promising prospect for future viewership and potentially continued success at the box office. As adaptations continue to carve out their space in cinema, “Wicked” stands as a prime example of how performances that originate on stage can seamlessly transition to the big screen, captivating audiences worldwide.
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