Glicked: Moviegoers Enthralled by ‘Wicked’ and ‘Gladiator II’ Double Feature
- This weekend, two major films, "Wicked" and "Gladiator II," hit theaters, sparking interest online.
- Lindsey Bahr, an AP film writer, noted the excitement surrounding the contrasting nature of the films.
- Bahr explained that counterprogramming is not new, but the internet has transformed these releases into cultural moments that help boost ticket sales.
‘Glicked’: Moviegoers Look to Enjoy 2 Films
This weekend, two major films, “Wicked” and “Gladiator II,” hit theaters, sparking interest online. The event is being called “Glicked,” a name that combines the two titles and references the successful “Barbenheimer” phenomenon from the previous summer.
Lindsey Bahr, an AP film writer, noted the excitement surrounding the contrasting nature of the films. “Wicked” offers a vibrant fantasy filled with music, while “Gladiator II” presents a gritty tale of survival. Both films topped Fandango’s survey, with 65% of respondents expressing interest in the double feature.
Bahr explained that counterprogramming is not new, but the internet has transformed these releases into cultural moments that help boost ticket sales. Actor Paul Mescal, a star of “Gladiator II,” emphasized that the films can coexist and contribute positively to the industry.
Despite the box office facing an 11% deficit from last year, these films aim to draw audiences back into theaters.
Debuts and Box Office Performance
“Wicked” and “Gladiator II” debuted with impressive box office numbers, totaling $270 million. “Wicked” opened to $114 million domestically and $164.2 million globally, making it the third-largest opening of the year and setting a record for Broadway musical adaptations.
“Gladiator II,” directed by Ridley Scott, opened to $55.5 million domestically. Though this fell short of the expected $60 million, it performed well internationally, grossing an additional $50.5 million.
While “Wicked” faces competition from “Moana 2” next week, it appears better positioned for continued success in theaters. The film runs for 2 hours and 40 minutes, but early reviews have been strong, with audience scores indicating high satisfaction. Many believe “Wicked” could be a contender at the Academy Awards.
In summary, the excitement of “Glicked” highlights a renewed enthusiasm for moviegoing, promising entertainment for audiences this holiday season.