“For Good Set to Break $200M Box Office Opening Record”
Wicked: For Good is set to redefine box office standards this Thanksgiving. Universal’s highly anticipated film is projected to earn over $200 million globally during its opening weekend, making it a landmark event in cinematic history. This would mark the largest debut for any Broadway musical adaptation to date.
Box Office Projections and Expectations
The film is expected to kickstart with a domestic gross ranging from $120 million to $115 million. Universal hopes to manage expectations, noting that anything around $115 million in North America would still be a significant achievement.
Key Details About Wicked: For Good
- Release Date: November 21, 2023
- Director: Jon M. Chu
- Starring: Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba
- Based on: The Broadway musical and book about the witches of Oz
Competition and Context
Wicked: For Good will face competition from Disney’s Zootopia 2, which is also anticipated to have a strong debut, targeting at least $125 million over its opening five days.
Marketing Strategies Contributing to Success
Advance ticket sales for Wicked: For Good have surged, making it Fandango’s leading PG-rated pre-seller of all time. The marketing strategy included collaborations with popular shows, such as an episode of Dancing with the Stars featuring the film’s cast and crew. This episode garnered significant viewership and engagement, securing 57 million TikTok views within 24 hours.
Critical Reception
The film has already received positive initial reactions, boasting a staggering 97 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes. This compares favorably to the original Wicked, which holds a score of 96 percent.
Legacy and Impact
The original Wicked film opened to a record-breaking $112.5 million last year, ultimately grossing nearly $750 million worldwide. This extraordinary performance exemplifies the challenges and successes associated with adapting Broadway musicals into films.
The Storyline of Wicked: For Good
In this iteration, Elphaba, portrayed as the Wicked Witch of the West, grapples with her dark reputation while living in exile. Her former friend Glinda, now a symbol of goodness in Oz, joins her in a heartfelt reunion as they confront a sinister plot threatening their world.
With its rich musical score and compelling narrative, Wicked: For Good is poised to become a cultural phenomenon this Thanksgiving, breaking box office records and capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.
