The Sam Sanders Show Did Wicked Change Hollywood… For Good?
Nov 25, 2025
Join Katey Rich, an insightful awards editor at The Ankler, as she dissects the cultural impact of 'Wicked: For Good.' They discuss the film's massive marketing strategy and whether it signals a theatrical comeback or just a unique spectacle. Katey praises the performances of Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo while addressing mixed critical responses. They explore the film's queer themes and potential spinoffs, considering what this means for Hollywood's direction in serving diverse audiences. Will 'Wicked' redefine the cinematic landscape?
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Marketing As Monoculture
- Wicked's marketing felt omnipresent and unprecedented in scale, rivaling Barbie's cultural rollout.
- Katey Rich credits the stars' relentless promotion and huge global premieres for that saturation.
Spectacle Draws Crowds, Not Habits
- Big spectacle films still coax audiences back to theaters but can't fix declining overall attendance alone.
- Katey Rich sees hits like Wicked as occasional anchors rather than a full industry revival.
Program For Your People
- Studios should program to distinct audiences instead of chasing everything for everyone.
- Katey Rich suggests targeting fan groups (e.g., anime, horror, musicals) yields reliable box-office returns.
