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‘wicked’: How Universal’s Risky Gamble to Split the Musical into Two Movies Paid Off at the Box Office

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November 24, 2025
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‘wicked’: How Universal’s Risky Gamble to Split the Musical into Two Movies Paid Off at the Box Office

‘wicked’: How Universal’s Risky Gamble to Split the Musical into Two Movies Paid Off at the Box Office

variety.com

The highly anticipated 'Wicked' film, based on the beloved musical of the same name, has been a topic of discussion among film enthusiasts for years. The decision to split the story into two movies was seen as a high-risk gamble by Universal Studios, but it has ultimately paid off in a big way.

Box Office Success

The first installment of the 'Wicked' film series, released in 2023, grossed over $430 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of the year. The second installment, released in 2024, has also performed exceptionally well, earning over $300 million globally.

The success of the 'Wicked' film series can be attributed to the dedication and perseverance of the filmmakers, who worked tirelessly to bring the beloved musical to life on the big screen. The film's stunning visuals, memorable performances, and catchy music have all contributed to its massive box office success.

Critical Acclaim

The 'Wicked' film series has received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the film's faithful adaptation of the original musical. The film's cast, including a star-studded ensemble, has also received praise for their performances.

The film's success has also had a positive impact on the music industry, with the soundtrack selling millions of copies worldwide. The film's catchy songs, including "Defying Gravity" and "Popular," have become anthems for the musical theater community.

Future Plans

Universal Studios has announced plans to continue the 'Wicked' film series, with a third installment set to be released in the near future. The film's success has also sparked interest in a potential Broadway production, with rumors of a new stage adaptation in the works.

The 'Wicked' film series has proven to be a game-changer for Universal Studios, demonstrating the power of adapting beloved musicals for the big screen. The film's success has also paved the way for other musical adaptations, including a forthcoming film of 'Hamilton.'

The 'Wicked' film series has cemented its place as one of the most successful film franchises in history, breaking box office records and entertaining audiences worldwide. As the film series continues to grow and evolve, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this beloved musical.

This article was generated with AI assistance and may contain errors. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

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