‘Wicked’ Outperforms ‘Gladiator II’: Musical Surprises Box Office With $120 Million Opening

The holiday box office is buzzing with excitement as Universal’s Wicked and Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II deliver impressive opening numbers, showcasing the power of franchises and fan-driven cinema.

Wicked: A Magical $120 Million Opening in Sight

Universal’s Wicked, based on the beloved Broadway musical, is enchanting audiences with an estimated $48.5 million from Friday and previews. This strong start sets the stage for a massive $120 million opening weekend. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, captivating both fans of the musical and the fantasy genre. Its dazzling visuals, heartfelt performances, and iconic songs like “Defying Gravity” are drawing families and theater enthusiasts, making it a top holiday season choice. Experts are predicting it could become one of Universal’s highest-grossing films of the year.

Gladiator II: A Colosseum-Worthy $61 Million Debut

Meanwhile, Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 Oscar-winning epic, is roaring into theaters with a projected $23.5 million from Friday and previews. It is on track for a $61 million opening weekend, a strong debut for a historical drama. Starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, and Barry Keoghan, the film continues the legacy of the original Gladiator, delivering breathtaking battle scenes and emotional depth. Early reactions praise its epic scale and compelling storytelling, positioning it as a contender in the upcoming awards season.

What’s Driving These Box Office Titans?

Fan Loyalty: Both films cater to established fan bases—Wicked appeals to theatergoers and fantasy fans, while Gladiator II targets lovers of historical epics.

Star Power: The star-studded casts, featuring Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Denzel Washington, and Paul Mescal, are drawing diverse audiences.

Holiday Timing: With families heading to theaters during the festive season, both films are perfectly timed to maximize attendance.

These factors combined make both films highly anticipated holiday blockbusters, poised for substantial success throughout the season.