‘Wicked’ and ‘Gladiator II’ Dominate Domestic Box Office with $169.5 Million
The domestic box office witnessed a blockbuster weekend as Wicked and Gladiator II combined to rake in $169.5 million in ticket sales across the U.S. and Canada.
Wicked: A Magical Debut
Universal Pictures’ Wicked, the first of a two-part adaptation of the Broadway musical, captivated audiences with its tale of the misunderstood, green-skinned student who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West. The film, starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, achieved a record-breaking debut for a movie based on a Broadway musical.
- Domestic Earnings: $114 million
- International Earnings: $50.2 million
- Global Total: $164.2 million
The movie outperformed previous Broadway adaptations, including Les Misérables, making it the biggest opening weekend for the genre.
Gladiator II: A Strong Second Act
Paramount Pictures’ Gladiator II, the long-anticipated sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning epic, earned $55.5 million domestically. The film stars Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Denzel Washington in a narrative set 16 years after the original story.
- Domestic Earnings: $55.5 million
- Global Weekend Total: $106 million
- Cumulative Global Earnings: $221 million (including its earlier release in international markets)
This sword-and-sandal epic continues to draw global audiences, fueled by a stellar cast and the legacy of its predecessor.
Box Office Highlights
The weekend showcased the power of established franchises and adaptations in attracting diverse audiences.
- Wicked appealed to musical theater enthusiasts and new fans alike, delivering a dazzling cinematic experience.
- Gladiator II capitalized on its historical drama roots and star power, maintaining momentum in its second week.
Both films underscore the enduring appeal of adaptations and sequels, proving their ability to dominate in a competitive box office landscape.
