The box office battle between two iconic fantasy films has captivated audiences and critics alike. Wicked: For Good, the highly anticipated sequel, has just surpassed a major milestone, but is it enough to live up to its predecessor's legacy?
A Box Office Showdown:
Wicked: For Good, the second installment of the Wicked franchise, has officially dethroned one of Tim Burton's most beloved films, Alice in Wonderland (2010), in the domestic fantasy box office charts. As of the latest reports, Wicked: For Good has grossed a total of $334.463 million domestically, a mere $272,000 more than Alice in Wonderland's $334.191 million. This achievement is even more impressive considering Wicked: For Good's box office performance plummeted after its initial release, unlike its predecessor's sustained success.
But here's where it gets controversial. Despite this triumph, Wicked: For Good's overall box office success pales in comparison to the original Wicked's $758 million global gross in 2024. The sequel's worldwide gross currently stands at $507 million, leaving many to wonder if it could have achieved more.
Critical Acclaim and Awards Buzz:
While critics were not as universally enamored with Wicked: For Good as they were with the first film, the performances of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, received widespread praise. Their captivating portrayal of the iconic friendship, intertwined with The Wizard of Oz, left audiences emotionally invested.
The film's accolades are further proof of its impact. Wicked: For Good recently garnered five 2026 Golden Globe nominations, including recognition for Erivo and Grande's acting, two Best Original Song nominations, and a nod for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement. However, its absence from the Best Motion Picture, Musical or Comedy category has sparked debate among fans and industry experts alike.
The End of an Era:
With its digital release and bonus features now available, Wicked: For Good's theatrical run is drawing to a close. The film has achieved success in its own right, but it's hard not to compare it to the original Wicked's phenomenal performance. As the sequel's box office journey nears its end, fans are left wondering if it could have reached even greater heights.
And this is the part most people miss: Wicked: For Good's impact extends beyond box office numbers. Its contribution to the beloved Wicked franchise and the emotional closure it provides to fans worldwide are undeniable. But will it be remembered as a worthy successor, or will it forever be in the shadow of the original? The debate continues as fans eagerly await the Oscars to see if Wicked: For Good can defy expectations once more.
Directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Winnie Holzman, Dana Fox, and Gregory Maguire, Wicked: For Good premiered on November 21, 2025, with a runtime of 137 minutes. The film stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in their iconic roles, leaving audiences captivated until the very end.
