“Michael” Becomes Second Highest-Grossing Biopic of All Time, Beating Out “Elvis”

The biographical film about Michael Jackson has made a significant impact at the box office, amassing an impressive $577 million globally since its release just three weeks ago. This figure includes around $240.4 million from domestic audiences, whilst its international earnings stand at approximately $336.88 million, marking it as the second-highest-grossing biopic of all time.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film features Jaafar Jackson in the titular role, bringing to life the complex journey of his renowned uncle, from his childhood in the Jackson 5 to the beginning of his solo career. The film debuted in theatres on April 24, three years after its initial announcement, and has quickly gained traction, outstripping prior biopics such as “Elvis,” which earned $288.7 million during its run. The highest-grossing biopic remains “Bohemian Rhapsody,” which generated $910.8 million worldwide.

In addition to its overall success, the film set records for the biggest box office opening for a biopic, raking in $314 million globally in just its first weekend. “Michael” achieved $97 million in the domestic market and secured $217 million from international screens, surpassing the previous record held by “Straight Outta Compton,” which opened to $60 million.

The film has garnered positive attention in various countries, including the UK, Spain, Germany, and Australia, where it secured the top spot at the weekend box office in France with earnings of $7.2 million. Its adept performance across multiple markets is a testament to the late pop icon’s enduring legacy and popularity.

Jaafar Jackson portrays Michael Jackson at different stages of his life, with actor Juliano Krue Valdi playing the young musician. Colman Domingo takes on the role of Joe Jackson, the family’s patriarch, who was instrumental in managing Michael and his brothers. The cast also includes Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, and notable figures such as Miles Teller and Laura Harrier portraying key figures from Jackson’s life and career.

The film provides audiences with a portrayal of Jackson that highlights both his off-stage life and his celebrated performances. The synopsis promises that viewers will experience Jackson’s story as they have never seen before. However, it notably concludes in 1988, choosing to omit the controversies that surrounded Jackson in the years following his peak.

Developed with the cooperation and blessings of the Jackson family, the film is described as an “honest portrayal” of Jackson, illustrating both his extraordinary talent and the challenges he faced. While the film’s narrative spans his remarkable career, it delicately sidesteps some of the more challenging aspects of his later life, which have drawn significant public scrutiny.

As it stands, “Michael” has not only performed well at the box office but has also resonated with audiences, highlighting the glittering yet tumultuous life of one of music’s most iconic figures. Its success underscores the film’s ability to capture the complexities and triumphs of a storied legacy, inviting a new generation of fans to engage with Jackson’s work.

With box office milestones already achieved and a strong international presence, “Michael” continues to draw in audiences and contribute to ongoing discussions about the King’s indelible mark on the music industry. The film is currently available in theatres, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of a musical legend.