Wicked and Gladiator II launch together in new box office showdown dubbed Glicked

Universal's "Wicked" and Paramount's "Gladiator II" were released on the same day, November 22, 2024. This pairing has been dubbed "Glicked," reminiscent of last year's "Barbenheimer" phenomenon with "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer." Both films need to earn over $2 billion to match the success of "Barbenheimer." "Wicked" is based on a popular musical, while "Gladiator II" is a sequel to a major 2000s hit, featuring well-known actors. The simultaneous release aims to attract audiences and boost box office sales after a slow summer. Analysts note that while replicating "Barbenheimer" may be challenging, the buzz around "Glicked" could benefit both films.