Wicked Film Adaptation Shatters Box Office Records with Stellar Opening Weekend
The highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, opened in cinemas on November 22, 2024, and is projected to achieve a staggering $120 million during its debut weekend. This surpasses the previous peak for a Broadway adaptation and places Wicked among the top openings of the year, following significant advance ticket sales and a strong turnout in preview screenings.
In initial reports, Wicked amassed $20 million from Thursday night previews alone, leading industry analysts to speculate on its potential for the blockbuster opening. The early success can be attributed to the film’s nostalgic appeal to audiences who grew up watching the Broadway show since its inception in 2003.
Critics have provided varied reviews of the film. Many praise the performances of Erivo and Grande, noting Erivo’s emotional depth in portraying Elphaba and Grande’s playful take on Glinda. While some reviews highlight the stunning visuals and musical numbers, others critique the film for feeling overly drawn out, questioning the decision to split the story into two parts. This divide has sparked debate over whether all these elements were necessary for a narrative that has been widely celebrated in its stage format.
Speculation regarding the films’ star actors has also been a topic of conversation, particularly focusing on the health and appearance of Grande and Erivo during promotional events. Health professionals expressed concerns about the potential effects of their strict vegan diets on their recent physical transformations.
As fans flock to theatres, Wicked has reignited discussions about movie theatre etiquette, particularly concerning audience participation during musical films. Major chains like AMC have advised against singing along during screenings, though many fans have expressed their intentions to do so regardless.
Overall, the release of Wicked represents a significant moment for both the film industry and theatre community, promising a visual spectacle while reigniting the cultural phenomenon it is based on. The anticipated second part of the adaptation is set to be released in November 2025, leaving audiences eager for what will unfold next in the story of Oz’s most infamous witches.
‘Wicked’ Flying To $120M Opening, ‘Gladiator II’ Conquering $61M – Friday Afternoon Box Office Update
'Wicked' and 'Gladiator 2' kicked off Thursday night respectively grossing $20M and $6M+ in previews. 'Wicked's cash includes earlier previews.
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Wicked is a dazzling reminder of how good movie musicals can be
Universal’s Wicked adaptation is the rare big-screen musical that feels like movie magic.
www.theverge.com
Where Does 'Wicked: Part One' End and What’s Next in 'Part Two'?
Audiences have a year to wait between installments of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s movie ‘Wicked,' adapted by director Jon M. Chu from the hit Br
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Doctors raise concerns about Ariana Grande's 'very fragile' new look
Cosmetic doctors warn that the dramatic transformation in both stars could be down to their restrictive vegan diets, which require careful management.
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Wicked fans issued warning by theaters ahead of release
‘Wicked’ is scheduled to premiere in theaters on November 22
www.independent.co.uk
Wicked review: This 'drawn-out' and 'self-important' film proves the musical didn't need to be split into two parts
There are decent performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande – but this flat opening instalment of The Wizard of Oz prequel may not convert thos
www.bbc.com
‘Wicked’ Review: Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Give Iconic Turns in the Year’s Must-See Musical
Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande wow in 'Wicked,' a fabulous two-part film adaptation of Broadway’s what-makes-a-villain spin on 'The Wizard of Oz.'
variety.com
Wicked Is As Enchanting As It Is Exhausting
Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation of the hit musical has charm, but the bloat is inescapable.
www.vulture.com
How Wicked’s Ethan Slater Made It to Oz and Back
He turned a SpongeBob musical into the break of a lifetime. But when the Broadway alum nabbed the role of Boq in the mega-budget Wicked film, his trip
www.gq.com
Wicked: utterly exhausting and hopelessly miscast
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo don’t come close to defying gravity in this bloated, beige screen adaptation of the Wizard of Oz prequel
www.telegraph.co.uk