Michael Jackson Biopic Sets Record with $217 Million Opening

The new musical film about Michael Jackson has made history by achieving the highest opening weekend ever for a biopic, raking in a staggering $217 million (£160 million) globally since its release on Wednesday. Portrayed by Jaafar Jackson, the singer's nephew, this groundbreaking film has not only surpassed previous records but also redefined the biopic genre.

A New Era for Musical Biopics

Previously, the record for a musical biopic was held by Bohemian Rhapsody, which opened with $124 million (£91 million) back in 2018. Additionally, Oppenheimer, which grossed $180 million (£133 million) in 2024, was also outpaced by Michael, marking it as the highest-grossing opening weekend for any biopic to date.

Adam Fogelson, chairman of the film's distributor, Lionsgate, commented on the impressive figures, stating, "You don’t deliver this figure unless you’re seeing huge numbers across every conceivable demographic. [Audiences] are clearly having a blast." This highlights the film's wide appeal and the powerful connection fans have with Jackson's music.

The film's success comes amidst a trend in Hollywood where musical biopics have become a reliable source of box office revenue. The past decade has seen films about legendary artists like Queen, Elton John, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Presley gain significant traction, making the genre a lucrative venture for studios.

Audience vs. Critics: A Controversial Reception

While audiences have received the film remarkably well—boasting a 97% average rating on Rotten Tomatoes—critics have been less enthusiastic, giving it a 38% average score. Many reviewers have expressed concerns that the film presents a “sanitized” version of Jackson's life and career, leading to a stark divide between audience and critic opinions.

Despite the controversy, the film is backed by Jackson's estate and features his original vocal tracks, which are integral to the overall experience. However, the decision to exclude references to the child sexual abuse allegations that haunted Jackson's career has sparked discussions about how his legacy is portrayed in cinema. Jackson had always maintained his innocence and was acquitted of the allegations in 2005.

Behind the Scenes: Filmmaking Challenges

Initially, the filmmakers planned to address the allegations in the film, but a crucial discovery of a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) led to a significant shift in the narrative. The NDA prohibited any mention of the allegations, forcing the team to rethink their approach entirely. Antoine Fuqua, the director, described this as a “tough period”, stating that the crew had to refocus on Jackson’s illustrious music career instead.

As a result of these changes, the film now concludes in 1988, prior to any allegations, and emphasizes Jackson's musical achievements and his complicated relationship with Joseph Jackson, portrayed by Colman Domingo. The extensive reshoots and adjustments have contributed to a reported budget of around $200 million (£148 million), positioning it as one of the most expensive biopics ever produced.

What Lies Ahead for Michael Jackson's Legacy

As the film continues to perform strongly at the box office, it has yet to release in Japan, where distributors have scheduled a June premiere. This suggests that there may be even more revenue on the horizon, further solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.

The film is part of a broader resurgence in cinema, following successful releases like The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and Project Hail Mary. With upcoming films like The Devil Wears Prada 2 poised for release, the industry appears to be experiencing a revitalization that could benefit from the momentum generated by Michael.

Why It Matters

The success of the Michael Jackson biopic is not just about box office numbers; it reflects the enduring legacy of the King of Pop and the public's fascination with his life. It raises questions about how we remember icons and how their stories are told in modern cinema. As audiences continue to engage with Jackson’s music and legacy, the film may spark renewed discussions about the complexities of his life, both the triumphs and the controversies.

As we look to the future, it will be intriguing to see how this film influences other biopics and whether it paves the way for more honest portrayals of complicated figures in entertainment history. With the film's financial success and audience approval, it stands as a testament to Jackson's lasting impact on music and culture, ensuring that his story will continue to be told for generations to come.