The biographical film Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, is the highest-grossing biopic of all time, having earned $977 million at the box office just two months after it hit theaters. It has surpassed the previous record holder, Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, which earned $965 million.
Current Status of the Michael Jackson Biopic
Michael, which centers on Michael Jackson‘s early years with his brothers in the Jackson 5 up until his 1988 Bad tour, features Jaafar Jackson, who portrays his uncle, in the lead role. The film had already scored a record during its opening weekend globally with $217 million in April. It has earned a domestic total of $370 million to date, making it Lionsgate’s third-highest domestic-grossing film. The Hunger Games at $408 million in 2012 and its sequel, 2013’s Catching Fire are in the Number One and Two spots.
The film has been a big hit in the theaters despite garnering negative reviews and criticism over it not addressing the child sexual abuse allegations that the King of Pop faced.
How Oppenheimer Holds the Record
Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer earned $965 million three years ago, a rep for Lionsgate confirmed to Rolling Stone.
Production Background and Scope
The Jackson estate-approved biopic supported the movie through troubling production, including news that the filmmakers were legally prohibited from portraying the child abuse allegations made against Jackson by accuser Jordan Chandler. That forced a reshoot of the entire third act, and delayed the release of the movie by nearly a year. The film ends with the words “The Story Continues,” implying that a sequel may be coming. Michael is expected to gross upwards of $1 billion at the global box office, and it looks to be heading that way soon.
Key Takeaways
- Box Office Record: Michael is the highest-grossing biopic of all time with $977 million in global earnings.
- Cast: Jaafar Jackson stars as Michael Jackson, directed by Antoine Fuqua.
- Verification: The film has earned a domestic total of $370 million to date.