Universal’s “Wicked” is clicking its heels three times and moving from its original day before Thanksgiving date to November 22nd, five days earlier, according to Deadline.
This will move the musical tentpole from its head-to-head date against the Disney Animation sequel “Moana 2”. It’s a smart move by Universal Pictures as both films are aimed at females, and with “Wicked” being a two-part film they need to give their film the best chance possible at the box office.
Its new date now pits “Wicked” against Paramount Pictures’ “Gladiator 2”. This could potentially be an attempt by Universal to create another “Barbenheimer” event. With one film is aimed at guys, while the other is aimed at women. Although the argument could be made that both films appeal to audiences in general. With the nostalgia of both “Gladiator” and “Wizard of Oz”.
It is important to note that “Wicked” may not need much help to succeed. For example, during its 21-year life, “Wicked” the stage play, has grossed $2.5 billion worldwide. The Super Bowl teaser trailer has been seen over 230 million times, and the full trailer 216 million times. It was also one of the highlights of this year’s CinemaCon Universal presentation. There, an array of brightly lit tulips filled the arena.Creating some of the magic we could expect in the film.
Here is the synopsis for Universal Pictures’ “Wicked”, directed by Jon M. Chu:
Misunderstood because of her green skin, a young woman named Elphaba forges an unlikely but profound friendship with Glinda, a student with an unflinching desire for popularity. Following an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their relationship soon reaches a crossroad as their lives begin to take very different paths.
Travel back to Oz in Universal Pictures’ Wicked, now only in theaters on November 22nd.
