New Movies 2025: Wicked: For Good smashes records with $147M debut, but what critics just revealed about the ending

Wicked: For Good has defied gravity at the box office with a record-breaking $147 million domestic debut. The sequel to 2024’s Wicked smashes every chart for Broadway adaptations. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s return to Oz proves the musical phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down.

Breaking Records for Broadway Adaptations Worldwide

The film captured the hearts of audiences across 4,115 North American theaters during its opening weekend. This crushing debut surpasses the $112.5 million opening of the first Wicked film released in 2024.

Wicked: For Good ranks as the second-biggest domestic opening of 2025, trailing only A Minecraft Movie‘s $162 million but edging out Lilo & Stitch‘s $146 million launch.

Internationally, the gains prove even more impressive. The film banked $76 million from overseas territories, bringing its global total to $226 million through the opening weekend frame.

Universal’s Musical Juggernaut Reaches New Heights

Box Office Category	Amount
Domestic Opening	$147 million
International Opening	$76 million
Global Opening Total	$226 million
2025 Ranking	Second Biggest Opening

Producer Universal Pictures witnessed the film dominate at the multiplexes with 71 percent female audiences flocking to theaters. The strong female attendance reflects the film’s powerful lead performances and the musical’s cultural resonance.

Industry analysts credit “broad-appealing Hollywood filmmaking at its best.” The second installment expands the international footprint significantly compared to its predecessor.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Deliver Commanding Performances

Cynthia Erivo returns as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch, while Ariana Grande reprises her role as Glinda the Good. Their dynamic interplay earned an “A” CinemaScore, matching the first film’s audience reception.

The film follows Elphaba as she battles against the Wizard and Madame Morrible’s schemes to turn all of Oz against her. Meanwhile, Glinda embraces her public persona as the world’s most beloved good witch.

“Awards buzz has built for the performances of its two stars, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who look set to break another record next year, if they are Oscar-nominated in the same roles over two consecutive years.”

— The Guardian, Film Coverage

Jon M. Chu Crafts Darker, More Complex Second Act

Director Jon M. Chu helmed both installments of the theatrical adaptation. The second film diverges from the stage show’s lighter first act, embracing a darker tone that audiences embraced.

Production design expands the scope of Oz with elaborate musical sequences and emotional depth. The film captures the internal conflict and character growth that defines the Broadway musical’s second half.

Why Is Wicked: For Good Performing Like a Musical Superweapon?

The film’s exceptional performance stems from multiple factors converging perfectly. First, the first Wicked film established massive goodwill and a passionate fanbase hungry for resolution.

Second, the film releases during the pre-Thanksgiving holiday corridor, a prime moviegoing window. Third, the iconic Stephen Schwartz score ensures repeat business from musical theater devotees and casual audiences alike.

Additionally, 71 percent female audiences demonstrate how effectively the film captures emotional storytelling and character-driven narratives that resonate across demographics. This performance should inject momentum into an otherwise sluggish box office year.

Sources

• Variety – Box office analysis and opening weekend coverage
• The Guardian – Industry analysis and record confirmation
• Universal Pictures – Official studio announcements and distribution data