Michael, the long-awaited biopic of the late pop icon Michael Jackson, has debuted at the top of the North American box office, taking an estimated $97m over its opening weekend, according to industry figures released on Sunday.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate, the film traces Jackson’s journey from child performer to global superstar. The lead role is played by Jaafar Jackson.
“This is a record-shattering opening for a musical biography,” said David A Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research.
Gross said audiences have responded positively, describing the film as a “feel-good, nostalgic appreciation,” though he noted that critical reception has been less favourable.
“Most critics feel the film is superficial and avoids the complicated parts of the performer’s life,” he said, adding that a second instalment is already in development.
The film, which has also been released in Europe, has earned nearly $220m worldwide so far, according to Exhibitor Relations.
In second place across the United States and Canada was The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which added $21.2m in its latest weekend.
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The animated sequel from Universal Pictures and Illumination Studios has now grossed more than $775m globally.
Third place went to Project Hail Mary, Amazon MGM’s science-fiction adventure comedy starring Ryan Gosling.
The film earned $13.2m over the weekend and has taken close to $600m worldwide following an extended theatrical run.
In fourth place was Lee Cronin’s The Mummy, a Warner Bros horror release, which made $5.6m.
Fifth place went to The Drama, an A24 title starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, which added $2.6m for a global total of $80m.
The remainder of the top 10 was rounded out by:
Hoppers ($1.9m)
You, Me & Tuscany ($1.5m)
Over Your Dead Body ($1.4m)
I Swear ($640,000)
Normal ($625,000)
AFP