The Emerald City has certainly cast a spell on audiences, but not quite enough to dethrone a certain ice queen. "Wicked," the highly anticipated musical fantasy directed by Jon M Chu, brought its vibrant world to cinemas on November 22, captivating viewers with stellar performances from Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. While its theatrical run is now winding down, the film has delivered a box office performance that’s nothing short of phenomenal, smashing several records along the way and often outperforming rivals like Moana 2 in its box office stride. Yet, despite its considerable success, the grand ambition to surpass Disney’s Frozen 2 has proven just out of reach.
At a Glance: Wicked's Box Office Journey
- Overall Performance: A monumental success, raking in $727.80 million worldwide.
- Domestic Cume: $472.4 million, poised to finish just below Frozen 2's $477.37 million.
- Global Rank: Ranks as the 6th highest-grossing film of 2024 worldwide.
- Record Breaker: Crowned the Highest-Grossing Musical Theater Movie Adaptation Ever and Universal Pictures' Highest-Grossing Musical Film.
- Opening Weekend: Secured the 4th-biggest domestic opening of 2024 with $112 million, setting a new record for Broadway adaptations.
- Awards Recognition: Winner of the Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards and garnered ten nominations at the 97th Academy Awards.
- Sequel Status: The second part, "Wicked: For Good," is slated for release on November 21, 2025.
The Emerald City's Grand Debut: A Blockbuster Is Born
From its glittering promotional campaign to the star-studded cast, "Wicked" arrived with immense anticipation, promising a cinematic spectacle. Directed by the visionary Jon M Chu, the film transported audiences to the fantastical land of Oz, exploring the untold story of its most infamous witches. Critical reception was largely positive, with both critics and general audiences praising the film's scope, performances, and heartfelt narrative. This widespread acclaim translated directly into impressive box office numbers from day one, laying the groundwork for a truly historic run.
The film's impact wasn't limited to audience enjoyment; it also garnered significant industry recognition. "Wicked" proudly took home the Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at the 82nd Golden Globe Awards, a testament to its commercial and artistic triumph. Furthermore, it amassed a remarkable ten nominations at the 97th Academy Awards, showcasing its broad appeal across various technical and creative categories. While director Jon M Chu’s exclusion from the Best Director category sparked some debate, it did little to diminish the film's overall critical and commercial shine.
A Tale of Two Box Office Titans: Wicked vs. Frozen 2
When "Wicked" premiered, many speculated whether it could challenge the reigning animated box office champion, Disney's Frozen 2. Both films operate in the realm of musical fantasy, boasting devoted fanbases and significant cultural footprints. Now, as "Wicked" nears the conclusion of its theatrical run, we have a clearer picture of this captivating comparison.
Globally, "Wicked" has collected a staggering $727.80 million worldwide, composed of $472.4 million domestically and $255.32 million from overseas markets. These are undeniably massive figures, solidifying its place as one of the year's top performers. However, when we look at the direct head-to-head with Frozen 2, the numbers tell a story of a valiant effort that just fell short.
At a similar point in their respective runs – specifically, their 13th three-day weekend – "Wicked" garnered $247K, experiencing a 59.4% drop. In contrast, Frozen 2 had raked in a more robust $848K during its corresponding period. This difference in consistent late-stage performance meant that "Wicked" was steadily trailing Frozen 2 by approximately $3.1 million in their parallel journeys.
The projection for "Wicked" is that it will conclude its domestic run just below Frozen 2’s impressive $477.37 million haul. Currently, "Wicked" stands as the 26th highest-grossing film of all time in the United States. While an incredible achievement, it will likely not breach the top 25 by surpassing Frozen 2. This marginal difference highlights the sheer staying power and audience engagement Frozen 2 commanded, a benchmark that even a cinematic powerhouse like "Wicked" found challenging to overcome entirely.
Yet, its trajectory wasn't a constant decline. On Presidents’ Day, for instance, the movie saw a notable 27.2% hike, collecting an additional $77,105, demonstrating its ability to draw audiences back during holiday periods, even late in its run. Despite the narrow miss against Frozen 2, the film has firmly established itself as a commercial triumph, a fact underscored by its eventual release on digital platforms, further expanding its reach. If you're wondering about its streaming home, many have been asking Is Wicked on Disney Plus?, which is a common query given the fantasy genre.
Shattering the Glass Slipper: Wicked's Record-Breaking Achievements
While the narrative often focuses on the "miss" against Frozen 2, it's crucial to pivot and celebrate the extraordinary "hits" that "Wicked" delivered. The film's theatrical run is an absolute masterclass in box office performance, establishing new benchmarks across multiple categories. Let's delve into the impressive list of records "Wicked" proudly now holds:
Highest-Grossing Musical Theater Movie Adaptation Ever
This is perhaps "Wicked's" most significant claim to fame. The film has officially surpassed all its predecessors, taking the crown as the highest-grossing musical theater movie adaptation of all time. With its global take, it soared past previous record holders like Mamma Mia! ($611.5 million globally), the critically acclaimed Les Misérables (2012), the beloved classic Grease (1978), and the Oscar-winning Chicago (2003). This achievement cements "Wicked's" place at the pinnacle of a storied cinematic subgenre.
Highest-Grossing Musical Film Released by Universal Pictures
For Universal Pictures, "Wicked" has become a new flagship. The film out-muscled their own animated hit, Sing, which previously held the record at $634 million, to become the studio's highest-grossing musical film ever. This is a massive win for Universal, demonstrating their capacity to deliver blockbuster musical experiences.
Top 10 Highest-Grossing Film of 2024 Worldwide
In a competitive year for blockbusters, "Wicked" effortlessly clawed its way into the elite. It currently ranks as the sixth highest-grossing film of 2024 worldwide, having amassed over $700 million. It stands alongside other cinematic giants, trailing only Inside Out 2, Deadpool & Wolverine, Despicable Me 4, Moana 2, and Dune: Part 2. This top-tier placement is a clear indicator of its global appeal and robust audience turnout.
Highest-Grossing Non-Sequel of 2024
Perhaps even more impressive is "Wicked's" status as the highest-grossing non-sequel of 2024. In an entertainment landscape heavily dominated by established franchises and continuations, "Wicked" stands out as the only original (or rather, adaptation of a standalone story) film within the top 10 highest-grossing movies of the year. This speaks volumes about its power to draw in viewers without relying on pre-existing cinematic continuity.
4th-Biggest Domestic Opening Weekend of 2024
"Wicked" burst onto the scene with an electrifying domestic opening weekend, pulling in $112 million. This phenomenal start positioned it as the fourth-biggest domestic opening of 2024, trailing only the highly anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine ($211 million), Inside Out 2 ($154 million), and Moana 2 ($140 million). It was also one of only five movies in 2024 to achieve a domestic opening weekend exceeding $100 million, signaling immense initial demand.
Biggest Opening Weekend for a Movie Based on a Broadway Show
Building on its strong opening, "Wicked" also claimed the title for the biggest opening weekend for a movie based on a Broadway show. It dramatically surpassed Les Misérables (2012), which previously held the worldwide record with $103 million, and dwarfed Into the Woods (2014) which had a domestic opening of $31 million. This record underscores the musical's massive, built-in fanbase and its successful transition to the big screen.
Highest-Grossing Thanksgiving 5-Day Weekend, Live Action
The holiday release strategy for "Wicked" proved incredibly fruitful. Over the Thanksgiving five-day weekend, the live-action film collected an astounding $118.3 million, shattering the previous record held by The Hunger Games: Catching Fire ($109.9 million in 2013). This performance also secured its place as the third-highest Thanksgiving five-day opening overall (behind Moana 2 and Frozen 2) and, notably, holds the record for any non-sequel opening during this festive period.
Contributed to Highest-Grossing Thanksgiving in Movie History
"Wicked's" powerful holiday showing wasn't just a win for the film itself, but for the industry as a whole. Its massive contribution helped Thanksgiving 2024 become the first in movie history to cross $400 million at the domestic box office. This collective achievement highlights the film's role as a major drawcard that helped revitalize cinematic attendance during a key period.
Star Power Pays Off: Individual Milestones for the Wicked Crew
Beyond the film's overarching box office triumphs, "Wicked" also provided a career-defining moment for its key creative contributors and stars, pushing their individual box office records to new heights.
For Cynthia Erivo, stepping into the iconic green skin of Elphaba marked her biggest opening to date. This role significantly topped her previous highest opening with the 2018 film Widows, which saw a $12 million North American box office debut. It's a clear indication of her growing star power and appeal to mainstream audiences.
Ariana Grande, known globally as a pop music sensation, made an indelible mark with her portrayal of Glinda. "Wicked" delivered the biggest opening for any popstar ever, eclipsing the record previously held by Lady Gaga's critically acclaimed A Star Is Born, which opened to $42.5 million in 2018. Grande's presence undoubtedly amplified the film's reach, bringing in her vast and loyal fanbase.
Even director Jon M. Chu found "Wicked" to be his most successful opening. The film topped his 2013 action hit, G.I. Joe: Retaliation, which garnered $40.5 million domestically and $132 million worldwide. This signifies Chu's continued growth as a director capable of helming large-scale, commercially successful projects across diverse genres.
The Long Tail: Digital Release and Weekend Drops
As all theatrical runs do, "Wicked's" journey saw its inevitable fluctuations. Following its initial surge, the film’s 13th three-day weekend saw a collection of $247K, representing a 59.4% drop. This kind of decline is typical for films nearing the end of their exclusive big-screen window, especially after such a prolonged and successful period.
However, the journey wasn't without its boosts. The movie experienced a pleasant rebound on Presidents’ Day, collecting an additional $77,105, marking a 27.2% hike. These holiday bumps are crucial in extending a film's box office life, demonstrating that even late in its run, key dates can still draw audiences eager for a cinematic escape.
In line with modern distribution strategies, "Wicked" has also transitioned to digital platforms. This move allows the film to reach an even wider audience, offering flexibility for those who prefer to watch from home or missed its theatrical debut. The digital release will contribute to its overall revenue, albeit outside the traditional box office tally, further extending its commercial lifespan and ensuring its availability for years to come.
Looking Ahead: What's Next for Wicked?
The story of Elphaba and Glinda is far from over on the big screen. The first installment's success has only heightened anticipation for its continuation. The second part of the cinematic event, aptly titled "Wicked: For Good," is already scheduled for release on November 21, 2025.
This strategic two-part release, common for adapting extensive narratives, allows for deeper character development and a more faithful translation of the original stage production's story. The strong performance of the first film sets a formidable precedent for the sequel, suggesting that "Wicked: For Good" is poised for another robust box office showing. Fans will undoubtedly flock back to cinemas to witness the conclusion of this epic tale, cementing the franchise's legacy in cinematic history.
Decoding Box Office Success: More Than Just Raw Numbers
While box office figures like "Wicked's" $727.80 million worldwide total are impressive, a film's true success is often a more nuanced discussion. Beyond the raw numbers, several factors contribute to a comprehensive understanding of a theatrical run's impact and profitability.
Firstly, the production budget plays a crucial role. While specific figures for "Wicked" aren't provided in the context, a film's ability to significantly out-earn its budget is a key indicator of its financial health. "Wicked's" massive global gross strongly suggests it has been a very profitable venture for Universal Pictures, regardless of its exact budget.
Secondly, the cultural impact and critical reception, which "Wicked" excelled in, contribute immensely to its legacy. Winning a Golden Globe and securing ten Oscar nominations means the film isn't just a commercial hit but also a critically acclaimed one. This dual success enhances its long-term appeal, influencing future viewership on streaming platforms and home media.
Finally, the context of the theatrical market matters. "Wicked" released in a competitive environment, vying for attention against other major blockbusters. Its ability to not only stand out but break numerous records speaks to its unique appeal and effective marketing. Even the comparison to Frozen 2, while indicating a narrow miss in one metric, simultaneously highlights "Wicked's" success in placing itself in the same league as one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time. It’s a powerful testament to the enduring power of its story and the magic it brings to the screen.
The Everlasting Appeal of Oz
The theatrical run of "Wicked" stands as a towering success story, a vibrant testament to the enduring appeal of the Land of Oz and the captivating power of its untold story. It's a film that has broken significant records, invigorated the musical adaptation genre, and delivered a truly memorable cinematic experience. While it may not have surpassed the colossal benchmark set by Frozen 2, its accomplishments are monumental in their own right. From its stunning visual effects to its powerhouse performances, "Wicked" has carved out a distinct and celebrated place in box office history, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting the next chapter. The Emerald City has opened its gates, and its impact will resonate for years to come.