'Wicked' earns $20 million in previews while 'Gladiator II' takes in over $6 million

Universal's "Wicked" and Paramount's "Gladiator II" opened with strong preview earnings of approximately $20 million and $6 million, respectively. "Wicked" includes earlier previews, while "Gladiator II" had a limited sneak preview. "Wicked" is expected to have a robust opening weekend, with projections between $130 million and $150 million. This follows significant marketing efforts and positive audience reception, with a 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes. "Gladiator II" is also performing well, with preview earnings similar to "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny." It is projected to reach around $60 million by the end of the weekend.