Michael Jackson has reclaimed the spotlight, as Michael stormed into theaters with a record-shattering debut that instantly made it the biggest biopic launch in box office history.
The Lionsgate film, centered on the life and legacy of the King of Pop, opened to a huge $97 million in North America and an impressive $217 million worldwide during its first weekend. The explosive start pushes past the previous biopic opening record held by Straight Outta Compton and far exceeds the debut of Bohemian Rhapsody, which went on to become a global phenomenon.
The film also secured the second-largest opening weekend of the year, trailing only The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
Industry expectations for Michael were initially far more modest, with early projections placing the movie in the $50 million to $60 million range. But momentum steadily grew as release day approached, fueled by curiosity, fan anticipation, and Jackson’s enduring global popularity.
With a reported production cost close to $200 million, Michael ranks among the priciest biopics ever made. The budget was shared by Lionsgate, Universal, and the Michael Jackson estate.
Watch Trailer below.