The cinematic landscape of 2025 has been dramatically reshaped as Wicked: For Good, the highly anticipated sequel, has cast a spell on global box offices. The film, directed by Jon M. Chu, has conjured a monumental $226 million in its opening weekend, instantly securing its place in musical film history.
A Monumental Opening for the Land of Oz
Landing in cinemas on 24 November 2025, the second chapter of the Wicked saga didn't just meet expectations—it demolished them. The film's powerful debut transformed a previously sluggish weekend into a triumphant event for Hollywood, proving the enduring power of a story centred on female friendship and destiny.
The breakdown of its historic earnings is staggering. Domestically, in North America, the film earned a colossal $150 million. From international markets across more than 57 countries, it pulled in an additional $76 million, culminating in that record-breaking global total of $226 million.
This phenomenal start positions Wicked: For Good as the fourth-biggest opening weekend of 2025, outperforming major superhero releases like DC's Superman and The Fantastic Four. Only Jurassic World: Rebirth, A Minecraft Movie, and Disney's Lilo & Stitch managed a stronger opening this year.
Outshining Its Predecessor
The success of Wicked: For Good becomes even more impressive when compared to the first film's debut. The original Wicked movie opened to a global sum of $162.7 million. The sequel has soared approximately 39% higher, a significant leap that underscores the growing global fanbase.
This growth was particularly evident internationally. While the first film derived about 62% of its earnings from North America, the sequel saw a powerful surge overseas. It debuted in 78 international markets, with standout performances in the United Kingdom and Ireland ($24.4 million), Australia ($8.6 million), and Germany ($4.1 million). Notably, the film has yet to open in Japan, a market where the first instalment enjoyed a long and profitable run.
Why This Victory Matters for Hollywood
The record-shattering debut of Wicked: For Good is more than just a win for a single franchise; it's a vital lifeline for the entire film industry. After a turbulent year marked by underperforming blockbusters and declining attendance, this film has single-handedly revitalized the box office.
Crucially, it demonstrated a truth that studios often overlook: female audiences are a powerful economic force. Nearly 70% of the opening weekend audience was female, and they turned out in massive numbers with their families, providing cinemas with a much-needed boost as the crucial Christmas holiday season approaches.
Fronted by the powerful performances of Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the film delves into the darker, more politically charged second half of the Broadway musical. Supported by a stellar cast including Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Yeoh, director Jon M. Chu has created a visually stunning and emotionally resonant chapter that has clearly connected with audiences worldwide.
In summary, Wicked: For Good has not only set a new global opening record for a musical adaptation but has also reignited fan passion across continents and provided a definitive answer to what modern audiences want to see on the big screen.
