Universal’s film adaptation of “Wicked” has become the largest musical stage adaptation in history, surpassing the previous record held by “Mamma Mia!” The film has achieved significant global box office success, with total earnings reaching approximately $634.4 million. Of this amount, $424.2 million comes from the domestic box office in the United States, while international markets contributed $210.2 million.
The weekend alone saw the film bring in an additional $13.7 million across 81 overseas markets. Directed by Jon M. Chu, “Wicked” is now recognized as the best stage musical adaptation, outpacing 46 other musical adaptations. It holds the distinction of being the largest Broadway film adaptation in domestic history.
In international comparisons, “Wicked” has outperformed films such as “Mamma Mia 2,” “Maleficent,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “The Greatest Showman” (not considering earnings from China). The film saw a 1% increase in worldwide sales, with notable strength in regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, where earnings rose by 7%.
In specific markets, “Wicked” recorded a 2% increase in the UK and Ireland, matching “Wonka” at $67 million. It has now surpassed the lifetime earnings of “The Greatest Showman” and “Despicable Me,” establishing itself as the third highest-grossing film of the year.
Australia experienced a significant 29% increase in box office sales during its sixth weekend, outperforming “Aladdin” and the last two “Jurassic World” films. Additionally, the Netherlands reported a 32% surge in ticket sales over the holidays.
The film’s top five international markets to date are the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, Germany, and Mexico. “Wicked” is set to debut in Japan on March 7th.