The newly released biopic “Michael,” which tells the story of late music legend Michael Jackson, has taken the lead at the North American box office, raking in $97 million in its opening weekend.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate, the movie traces the rise of the global superstar from his early years to international fame. The role of Jackson is portrayed by his nephew, Jaafar Jackson.
Industry analyst David A. Gross described the debut as exceptional, stating, “This is a record-shattering opening for a musical biography.”
He noted that while audiences have embraced the film as “playing as a feel-good, nostalgic appreciation,” critics have been less enthusiastic.
“Most critics feel the film is superficial and avoids the complicated parts of the performer’s life, including allegations of sexual misbehaviour,” Gross said, adding that a follow-up instalment is already in development.
Prompt News reports the film has also performed strongly internationally, earning close to $220 million globally after earlier releases in Europe, according to Exhibitor Relations.
In second place, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” added $21.2 million to its earnings. The animated blockbuster from Universal Pictures and Illumination has now grossed over $775 million worldwide.
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“Project Hail Mary,” a sci-fi comedy from Amazon MGM Studios, secured third place with $13.2 million. The film stars Ryan Gosling as an unlikely astronaut on a mission to save Earth and has approached $600 million globally.
Fourth place went to “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy,” produced by Warner Bros., which earned $5.6 million.
Completing the top five was “The Drama,” a romantic comedy from A24 featuring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. The film grossed an additional $2.6 million, bringing its total worldwide earnings to $80 million.
Other titles in the top 10 include “Hoppers” ($1.9 million), “You, Me & Tuscany” ($1.5 million), “Over Your Dead Body” ($1.4 million), “I Swear” ($640,000), and “Normal” ($625,000).
