The highly anticipated biopic Michael, based on the life of the late pop icon Michael Jackson, has made a huge impact at the global box office—pulling in an impressive $217 million during its opening weekend.
A Huge Debut Despite Mixed Reviews
The film earned $97 million in the United States and an additional $120 million internationally, making it the biggest opening ever for a musical biopic.
Interestingly, this success comes despite harsh criticism from some major outlets. Critics from The Guardian and The New York Times didn’t hold back, with reviews calling the film disappointing and overly formulaic.
Big Win for Studios and the Estate
The strong debut is a major win for distributors Lionsgate (handling the U.S. release) and Universal Pictures (handling international markets).
It’s also a significant moment for the Jackson Estate, which co-produced the film and continues to manage the late singer’s legacy and finances since his passing in 2009.
High Stakes Investment
The film reportedly cost over $150 million to produce, making it one of the most ambitious music biopics ever made. Despite the criticism, its strong opening suggests audiences are still deeply interested in Jackson’s story.
Controversy Behind the Scenes
Production wasn’t without challenges. Reports indicate that parts of the film had to be reworked after legal issues prevented the inclusion of certain individuals connected to past allegations.
As a result, Michael focuses on the singer’s life up to 1988, before major controversies began.
A Legacy That Still Draws Crowds
Even years after his death, Michael Jackson remains one of the most influential artists in music history. His global fanbase continues to show up—proving his cultural impact is still strong.
What’s Next?
The film was directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for Training Day, and produced by Graham King, the mind behind Bohemian Rhapsody.
With such a strong opening, studios are already considering a possible sequel—depending on how the film performs in the coming weeks.
Final Thoughts
Despite mixed reviews, Michael has proven one thing: audiences are still eager to experience the story of one of music’s greatest legends on the big screen.
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