“Wicked: For Good Opens with US$150 Million, Captivating Audiences”

The highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, achieved an impressive opening weekend at the box office, grossing US$150 million. This figure marks the second-largest opening weekend of 2025, following its predecessor’s success. Released in a year characterized by a sluggish domestic box office, the film opened to a remarkable US$68.6 million on its first day alone, setting a new record for the year.

Despite the mixed critical reception compared to the initial film, the audience has shown a strong affinity for the story set in the Land of Oz. The sequel received an A grade from CinemaScore, indicating a positive reaction from viewers, while its audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes reflects a similarly favorable response.

Continuing the Story

Picking up where the original Wicked left off, For Good delves into the journey of Elphaba, portrayed by Cynthia Erivo. The character, who defies the Wonderful Wizard of Oz, embraces her transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West. Her counterpart, Glinda, the Good Witch of the North, is played by Ariana Grande. Both actresses received Academy Award nominations for their performances in the first film, adding to the anticipation surrounding this sequel.

While A Minecraft Movie still holds the record for the highest opening weekend of the year with over US$162 million, the success of Wicked: For Good demonstrates a robust interest in musical adaptations and a continuing legacy of the Broadway hit. The film’s success not only underscores its popularity but also reflects a broader trend of audiences returning to theaters for engaging cinematic experiences.

As the film continues to draw viewers, it is poised to contribute significantly to the recovery of the box office in a year that has faced numerous challenges. The combination of beloved characters, stunning performances, and a captivating storyline has struck a chord with audiences, ensuring that Wicked: For Good remains a topic of discussion well beyond its opening weekend.