Michael moonwalks to $164.6m opening, shattering record for music biopics

Michael, the big-budget Michael Jackson biopic, launched with US$97 million (NZ$164.6 million) in US and Canada theatres, shattering a record debut for music biopics. Co-produced by the Jackson estate and Lionsgate, the film surpassed previous biopic top performers like Straight Outta Compton (US$60.2 million; NZ$102.15 million debut in 2015) and Bohemian Rhapsody (US$51 million; NZ$86.5 million in 2018). International sales were also strong, with Michael collecting US$120.4 million (NZ$204.3 million) overseas, resulting in a US$217.4 million (NZ$368.85 million) global opening—a new high for a music biopic. Universal picked up distribution in most international markets. The film faced challenges during production, including a costly mistake in the third act focusing on Jordan Chandler’s allegations, which required extensive reshoots at the estate’s expense. Despite initial skepticism, the movie turned into a huge hit, earning an ‘A-’ CinemaScore and a paltry 38% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics criticized the film for glossing over some aspects of Jackson’s controversial life, but audiences were enthusiastic. The Jackson estate and Lionsgate chairman Adam Fogelson emphasized the film’s massive audience engagement across diverse segments. The production cost neared US$200 million (NZ$339.4 million), with Lionsgate selling international distribution rights to Universal. A sequel is in development, with a third film not ruled out. The film’s success added to a strong spring for Hollywood, with box-office hits like Project Hail Mary and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie also performing well. Michael’s opening weekend performance contributed to its standing atop the box office for three weeks, with total domestic and international earnings exceeding US$386.5 million (NZ$655.8 million) and US$613.3 million (NZ$1.04 billion) respectively for Project Hail Mary.