In a dazzling display of cinematic success, “Wicked: For Good” has soared to remarkable heights, opening with a substantial $68.6 million in North America. This impressive debut marks the second-biggest start of 2025, underscoring the enduring appeal of the “Wicked” franchise. With a captivating blend of music and star power, this sequel is setting new benchmarks in the film industry.
Box Office Triumph for ‘Wicked: For Good’
Universal Pictures‘ “For Good” has captivated audiences, drawing $68.6 million from 4,115 locations across Friday and preview screenings. This positions the film for a potential $151.5 million weekend, marking the largest ever opening for a Broadway adaptation and second only to “Jurassic World” for Universal releases. If projections hold, this would place “Wicked: For Good” among the top domestic openings of the year, trailing “A Minecraft Movie” and the “Lilo & Stitch” remake.
Early Screenings Boost Opening Figures
The $68.6 million opening day for “Wicked: For Good” outpaces other major releases, thanks in part to early screenings. Universal strategically extended availability with Monday and Wednesday previews, including exclusive Amazon Prime showings and double features, reaching $12.6 million before the standard Thursday kickoff. This strategy, increasingly common in recent years, echoes the approach seen with releases like “Superman.” Such tactics are designed to maximize excitement and draw larger audiences.
A Much-Needed Blockbuster for Theaters
This opening provides a welcome boost for North American theaters, which have been eagerly awaiting a blockbuster. The last film to open with nine-digit figures was “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” in July, followed by “The Conjuring: Last Rites” with $84 million in September. “Wicked: For Good” is set to maintain its popularity through the Thanksgiving holiday into December, bringing much-needed vitality to the box office.
Positive Reception and Future Prospects
While reviews for “Wicked: For Good” have been positive, they haven’t mirrored the fervent acclaim of its predecessor. Nevertheless, audiences have responded enthusiastically, with Cinema Score reflecting an “A” grade, consistent with the 2024 edition. The significant investment by Universal, totaling $300 million for both “Wicked” films, excluding marketing, appears well-justified with these films emerging as major cinematic events.
