According to Hollywood Reporter, director Antoine Fuqua's film surprised many by exceeding the opening week record of "Oppenheimer" (80 million USD, unadjusted for inflation). Previously, experts predicted the film would only gross 50-60 million USD in its first three days. Producer Graham King and Lionsgate focused on breaking "Straight Outta Compton's" record for a music biopic.
Trailer for "Michael", released domestically on 26/4. The film is rated for viewers under 13 with an accompanying guardian. Video: Universal Pictures Vietnam
The film earned an additional 120,4 million USD from its debut in 84 countries and territories, raising its total revenue to 217,4 million USD. The project also set an opening revenue record for a music biopic in 63 markets, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Australia. In Japan, a country with a large fanbase for Michael Jackson, the film is expected to be released in June.
Critics found the story uninspiring, noting that the production team avoided complex aspects of the artist's life, resulting in a Rotten Tomatoes score of approximately 38%. However, the project proved entertaining and nostalgic for audiences, earning an A- grade in CinemaScore audience polls.
PostTrak data indicates that 61% of ticket buyers were female and 66% were 25 years or older. On Rotten Tomatoes, one user commented, "The film was great, I went with my mom and aunt, and they both loved it. I will definitely watch it again." Another account wrote, "Excellent, the film was emotional. The musical segments were energetic and captivating, worth rewatching."
Hollywood Reporter noted that positive word-of-mouth and an approach focused on honoring Michael Jackson's musical legacy helped the film attract attention. Its box office success also demonstrates the pop icon's enduring appeal to the public.
A segment featuring Jaafar Jackson, the pop king's nephew, singing "Billie Jean" in the film. Video: Rotten Tomatoes
Director Antoine Fuqua recreates Michael Jackson's life from his time with The Jackson 5 until he became one of the world's biggest entertainers. Jaafar Jackson, the singer's nephew, plays the lead role, with Colman Domingo and Nia Long portraying Michael's father and mother. Performances like "Billie Jean," "Thriller," and "Beat It" evoke the golden age of his career.
According to Variety, the original script depicted the 1993 child sexual abuse lawsuit between Michael Jackson and Jordan Chandler's family, but these segments were removed due to legal clauses prohibiting mention of the accuser. After editing, the film concludes at the time of the "Bad" tour in England in 1988. Lionsgate is reportedly considering developing at least one sequel.
With a budget of nearly 200 million USD, "Michael" is among the most expensive biopics. The project's success continues a wave of post-pandemic music biopics, including films about Amy Winehouse, Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, and Elvis Presley. Despite production challenges, the film has initially proven commercially effective, marking Lionsgate's biggest launch in over a decade since "The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2" (2015), which grossed 653 million USD globally. If "Michael's" revenue exceeds 700 million USD, it will join the studio's highest-grossing films.
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Jaafar Jackson successfully portrays the late artist's distinct characteristics through his charisma and performance style. Photo: Lionsgate
Michael Jackson (1958-2009) was born into a family with 10 siblings. He began his music career at 11 years old with The Jackson 5 and started his solo career in 1987. In November 1982, Michael released "Thriller," an album recognized by Guinness World Records as the best-selling of all time.
Throughout his career, the artist won 13 Grammy Awards and six Billboard awards. He also received an AMAs for Artist of the Century and a Bambi Award honoring Pop Artist of the Millennium. On 25/6/2009, he passed away at his Neverland ranch in California, My, due to acute propofol intoxication leading to respiratory failure.
Cat Tien (according to Variety, Hollywood Reporter)
