“Wicked: Part One” has shattered records, making cinematic history as it soars past “Grease” to become the highest-grossing Broadway film adaptation in the U.S. box office.
Yes, it broke records despite the weird woke actresses who star in it.
At a Glance
- “Wicked: Part One” tops the domestic box office as highest-grossing Broadway musical adaptation.
- Directed by Jon M. Chu, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the film grossed $214.3 million in two weeks.
- The movie is expected to hit $263 million domestically by the end of the weekend.
- Worldwide, “Wicked” might reach $358 million, ranking fourth among Broadway musical adaptations.
Record-Breaking Success
“Wicked: Part One” has taken the U.S. box office by storm, surpassing “Grease” with its unrivaled ticket sales. Directed by Jon M. Chu and featuring stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this film has grossed an impressive $214.3 million by its second weekend. This success speaks volumes, especially as it rivals Disney’s “Moana 2,” another top performer over the Thanksgiving holiday.
By Sunday, “Wicked” is projected to reach nearly $263 million domestically. This is noteworthy as it continues its journey beyond U.S. borders. Not only is it poised to make $358 million globally, but it also ranks as the fourth highest-grossing musical adaptation worldwide, trailing only “Mamma Mia!,” “Les Miserables,” and “Grease.”
In just 8 days, Wicked has surpassed Grease to become the highest grossing musical adaptation of all time at the domestic box office. pic.twitter.com/8apvTrITiR
— Wicked Movie Updates (@wickedupdate) November 30, 2024
Competing in a Crowded Market
Despite stiff competition from “Moana 2,” which had one of the best five-day openings and broke Thanksgiving records, “Wicked” held its ground. Its robust box office performance on Black Friday—third best, only behind “Moana 2” and “Frozen 2″—further underscores its broad appeal and solid fan base.
Setting the stage with record-breaking openings of $112.5 million stateside and $162.5 million worldwide, the film marked a new peak for director Jon M. Chu and stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. This highlights their ability to connect with global audiences and bring “Wicked” to the forefront of box office history.
‘WICKED’ has officially become the highest grossing musical adaptation of all time at the domestic box office.
The record was previously held by Grease (1978). pic.twitter.com/E4tmKmQLDA
— Wicked Updates 🧹 (@wicked_updates) November 30, 2024
An Unparalleled Milestone
The film’s upward trajectory reveals its potential to hit extraordinary benchmarks. Having surpassed its competitors, “Wicked” has also overtaken theatrical musicals. It moved beyond “The Greatest Showman,” “Grease,” and “Mary Poppins Returns” in terms of domestic earnings, demonstrating how traditional stories and modern cinema can intersect for spectacular success.
With a production budget of $150 million, the filmmakers have crafted a masterpiece that has set the stage for future successes. Beyond its current achievements, a sequel is already in the pipeline, slated for release next November, underscoring the enduring impact of “Wicked” on both the audience and the industry.
