Fans rushed to theaters this weekend to see Wicked: For Good. The movie earned an estimated $151 million in its first three days. That figure tops the $112.5 million opening of the original film and shows the sequel’s strong appeal. The high score from CinemaScore also helped drive word of mouth.
Domestic Performance
In the United States, the film outperformed most releases this year. It fell short of the $162 million record set by A Minecraft Movie, but it still leads the holiday slate. The movie also beat Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, which opened with $146 million. Analysts say the family‑friendly adventure and strong franchise fan base are the main drivers.
International Growth
Outside the U.S., Wicked: For Good is on track to add about $76 million. If the trend continues, the sequel could exceed the original’s $700 million international total. The film’s global appeal is boosted by its colorful visuals and universal themes of friendship and courage.
Other Films Competing This Weekend
While Wicked: For Good dominates the box office, several other titles are also in the mix. Zootopia 2 launches later in the week and may challenge the sequel’s momentum. Meanwhile, Now You See Me, Now You Don’t drops to about 55 percent of its opening week and is expected to finish the weekend just under $10 million, bringing its total close to $40 million.
The Running Man continues to decline sharply. Its earnings are likely to fall by at least 65 percent to $6 million. In contrast, Predator: Badlands projects a $6.2 million weekend and aims for a $72 million domestic total by the end of its run.
Smaller Releases and Award Contenders
In semi‑wide release, Brendan Fraser leads Rental Family toward a $3.2 million opening. The drama joins the list of adult‑oriented Oscar hopefuls that struggle to break into the mainstream. Sisu: Road to Revenge expects about $2.6 million, close to the original’s $3.2 million debut, and hopes to attract action fans over the holiday period.
Overall, the weekend shows a strong start for the sequel and a mixed outlook for other titles. The data suggests that families are choosing the vibrant fantasy over other options, and the film’s momentum could carry it through Thanksgiving.
What movies are you watching this weekend? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Source: JoBlo
