Late singer Michael Jackson biopic opens atop North America box office

‘Michael’, the highly anticipated biopic about late pop icon Michael Jackson, has opened at the top of the North American box office, pulling in an estimated $97 million over the weekend.

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The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate, traces Jackson’s journey from a child performer to global superstardom, with his nephew Jaafar Jackson taking on the lead role. Industry analysts have described the debut as a record-breaking opening for a musical biographical film.

Despite strong audience reception, with viewers embracing its nostalgic and celebratory tone, critics have been less favourable. Reviews have pointed to what some describe as a superficial portrayal that avoids more complex aspects of Jackson’s life, including past allegations of s3xual misconduct. A second instalment of the film is already in development.

The film’s success extends beyond North America, having generated close to $220 million globally following its release in European markets.

Elsewhere at the box office, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” secured second place with $21.2 million, continuing its strong run after several weeks at the top. Amazon MGM’s “Project Hail Mary” followed in third with $13.2 million, adding to its growing global total.

Warner Bros’ horror release “The Mummy” placed fourth with $5.6 million, while A24’s romantic drama “The Drama,” starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson, rounded out the top five with $2.6 million, pushing its worldwide earnings to $80 million.