The cinematic landscape is set to sparkle this Thanksgiving weekend with the arrivals of two highly anticipated films: Universal’s “Wicked” and Paramount’s “Gladiator II.” Collectively expected to gross upwards of $200 million, these films promise to inject a new vibrancy into theaters, indicating a favorable turn for the fall box office.
“This weekend is like a gift for moviegoers who have been hungry for diverse storytelling,” comments Shawn Robbins, a box office analyst at Fandango. “We’ve seen fluctuations in box office numbers this fall, but ‘Wicked’ and ‘Gladiator II’ could prove to be strong harbingers of a lucrative holiday season.” As audiences flock to theaters, they do so in search of entertainment that ranges from Broadway adaptations to epic sequels—”Wicked,” a film adaptation of the celebrated musical, and “Gladiator II,” which resurrects a beloved story nearly a quarter-century later.
The historical significance of these movies cannot be overstated. Both have garnered considerable pre-release attention, with “Wicked” already securing $19.2 million from advance screenings before its official opening. Such figures indicate not just interest but almost a communal eagerness from theatergoers who want to experience these narratives in a shared setting.
One of the most striking aspects of “Wicked” is its pedigree—emerging from one of Broadway’s most beloved productions, its transition to the big screen has been closely monitored. Originally, industry pundits forecasted an opening around $80 million. However, those projections have steadily increased, positioning the film to potentially surpass $140 million upon release. This represents a significant victory for movie-based musicals, a genre that has struggled for profitability in recent years.
With a commendable 92% “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on over 160 evaluations, and an astounding 99% approval rating from viewers on the site’s popcorn meter, “Wicked” appears set to rewrite the narrative on how musicals resonate with contemporary audiences. If it meets expectations, it will claim the title of the highest-grossing opening for a Broadway adaptation, dethroning Disney’s “Into the Woods,” which debuted with $31 million back in 2014.
Simultaneously, “Gladiator II” is making its mark with an impressive $6.5 million amassed during Thursday previews alone. Analysts project a weekend tally between $60 million and $80 million, a robust figure for a sequel that arrives over two decades after the original movie took the box office by storm. The predecessor, which didn’t just succeed but left an indelible mark on cinematic history, might be a heavy burden, yet the sequel looks set to carry on the legacy.
Currently rated 73% on Rotten Tomatoes, “Gladiator II” delivers strong brand recognition, aligning closely with audiences’ nostalgic desires while appealing to both newcomers and die-hard fans.
The cultural conversation surrounding these two films echoes the phenomenon of “Barbenheimer,” a theatrical trend that merged seemingly unrelated films into a shared viewing experience. While the dynamics are somewhat different, a sense of community is emerging around the anticipation for “Wicked” and “Gladiator II,” as moviegoers are eager to discuss and compare the cinematic stylings of these disparate stories.
Paul Dergarabedian, media analyst at Comscore, emphasizes the buzz these films have created. “It’s a cultural moment,” he insists, “that has heightened ticket sales and interest, pushing both films toward a compelling opening weekend filled with promise for continued success in the holiday corridor.”
While box office analysts anticipate a gross sales figure reaching between $200 million and $250 million for the weekend, this projection, while impressive, won’t breach the all-time top 20 highest-grossing weekends.
Cinema chains are gearing up to enhance the viewing experience with thematic promotions and unique merchandise. Leading theaters are offering inventive food and beverage options, from “Gladiator II” themed popcorn buckets shaped like the Colosseum to AMC’s pink and green candy-coated popcorn—showing that studios and cinemas alike are committed to creating engaging environments for audiences.
Greg Marcus, CEO of Marcus Corporation, highlights the aim of maximizing guest satisfaction. “Our goal is to ensure patrons enjoy a seamless experience, showcasing the fun of going to the movies, which speaks to how film and community intertwine,” he shares.
Ultimately, this weekend marks a pivotal moment for Hollywood, highlighting not just the commercial prospects of a revival, but the cultural importance of storytelling in cinema. As the story unfolds, it appears that a new chapter in the box office may very well be taking shape.