Barbenheimer” was a phenomenon impossible to manufacture. But that hasn’t stopped people from trying to recreate it. This weekend is perhaps the closest approximation yet as the Broadway musical adaptation “Wicked” opens against the chest-thumping sword and sandals epic “Gladiator II.

Wicked” and “Gladiator II” both drew less in Thursday previews than their “Barbenheimer” counterparts, but are still expected to help the fall box office.

Fans of 'Wicked' have been thrilled to see the behind-the-scenes photos since filming started, with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo portraying Glinda and Elphaba respectively. Mea