The highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway musical 'Wicked' has shattered box office records, earning a staggering $150 million domestically and $226 million globally during its opening weekend. Starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the film’s debut marks the largest opening ever for a Broadway adaptation and places it as the third-highest-grossing musical debut of all time.

The Thanksgiving weekend release immediately captured audiences, exceeding expectations and demonstrating significant demand for the film. Analysts had predicted a strong opening, but the actual figures significantly surpassed those estimates. The film’s success is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape of holiday releases.

’Wicked,’ based on the novel by Gregory Maguire and the subsequent Broadway musical, tells the story of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring their complex friendship and challenging the traditional narrative of the Wizard of Oz. The Broadway show, which premiered in 2003, has become a cultural phenomenon, running for over two decades and captivating audiences worldwide. The film aims to introduce this beloved story to a new generation while also appealing to longtime fans.

Grande and Erivo’s performances as Glinda and Elphaba, respectively, have been widely praised, contributing to the film’s positive reception. The film’s visual effects and musical numbers have also been lauded by critics and audiences alike. The strong opening weekend suggests that 'Wicked' is poised for continued success in the weeks and months to come, potentially becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year.