Michael Jackson's biopic is eyeing a record-breaking domestic debut.
Michael is on track to deliver the biggest opening ever for a music biopic as it moonwalks to a projected domestic debut in the $95 million to $100 million range and more than $200 million globally, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The Antoine Fuqua-directed and Jaafar Jackson-led biopic is reportedly set to significantly surpass initial expectations and overtake benchmarks set by 2015’s Straight Outta Compton and Bohemian Rhapsody in 2018.
The film surged from early tracking in the $55 million to $60 million range to a massive opening trajectory, powered by a $38.5 million first day and $12.6 million in previews, along with turnout across nearly every demographic, led by Black and female audiences, per THR.
Despite negative (sometimes very negative) reviews, Michael seems to be resonating with audiences based on its 96 percent Rotten Tomatoes audience score.
Overseas, the film is also off to a strong start with an opening around $114 million, positioning the film for a worldwide launch well above $200 million.
THR notes that the road to the screen was lengthy and costly, with the budget climbing close to $200 million after reshoots and a decision (per reporting, made for legal reasons) to end the story before the child sexual abuse allegations that later overshadowed Jackson's life.
That choice has fueled conversations about whether a sequel could tackle the more controversial chapters of the late pop singer’s story.
In a statement, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Adam Fogelson said, “Above all, [the film’s success] reflects the tremendous outpouring of love and affection from moviegoers around the world, underscoring the strength and vitality of the theatrical box office. If you give audiences what they want, they will come.”
