Universal Pictures’ long-awaited musical fantasy, **Wicked: For Good**, has finally hit theaters, enchanting audiences with its magical storytelling and beloved characters. A spin-off from last year’s blockbuster, this film brings back Oz’s most iconic witches, Glinda and Elphaba, and is already making waves at the box office. Early reports indicate that **Wicked: For Good** had a spectacular worldwide opening, earning nearly $15 million in just the first two days. Industry experts are predicting that it could become the biggest musical film opening in history.
Gargantuan Box Office, Record Advance Ticket Sales
Directed by Jon M. Chu, **Wicked: For Good** features a star-studded cast led by Ariana Grande as Glinda the Good Witch and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. The film opened in theaters across 59 countries, quickly becoming the number one film in the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Its advance ticket sales have shattered previous records, making it Fandango’s all-time top PG-rated preseller and landing among the top ten first-day ticket sales for any film. Industry officials anticipate that the film will gross over $125 million in the U.S. and $200 million internationally by the weekend, surpassing records for any Broadway adaptation.
Star Power & Musical Magic
The performances by Grande and Erivo have captivated audiences, complemented by striking visuals and a fresh retelling of the Oz story. Initial audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with a staggering 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, rivaling the legacy of the original **Wicked** film. Promotional events, including an extravagant episode of ‘Dancing With the Stars’ guest-judged by Jon M. Chu, have further enhanced the film’s visibility, turning #WickedForGood into a worldwide trend and attracting millions of young fans.
What Makes Wicked: For Good Special?
**Wicked: For Good** delves into the deeper backstory of the witches of Oz, focusing on themes of friendship and bravery. Director Jon M. Chu emphasized that the positive feedback from fans after the first film significantly influenced the crafting of the sequel, allowing for “deeper, more textured storytelling and character moments.” The film is being released in various formats, including RealD 3D, IMAX, and Dolby Cinema, along with special double-feature events where fans can enjoy both **Wicked** films together for an ultimate Oz experience.
Behind the Curtains: Production Insights
In August, a behind-the-scenes featurette offered a glimpse into the creative process, featuring interviews with director Chu, Erivo, and Grande discussing their vision for the sequel and the chemistry among the cast. The final trailer, released in September, generated significant buzz and anticipation, trending on social media platforms worldwide.
Early Fan Reactions and Critical Buzz
Critics who attended early screenings have described **Wicked: For Good** as “an allegory of otherness,” highlighting its themes of acceptance and belonging. While some reviewers pointed out instances of excessive revisionism, the consensus remains that the film’s lavish musical moments, breathtaking special effects, and fidelity to the Broadway classic will leave a lasting impact on audiences. The film’s ability to resonate with both new viewers and long-time fans of the original is a testament to its thoughtful execution.
Release Dates and Where To Watch
**Wicked: For Good** premiered in Brazil and France before making its U.S. debut on November 21, 2025. Additional countries, including China and Japan, will soon join the magic, expanding the film’s reach and allowing even more fans to experience the enchanting world of Oz.
