Michael sets global biopic box-office record

“Michael” danced to the top of the global box office with a record USD 217 million opening weekend, setting a new benchmark for a biopic and giving the Michael Jackson film a strong start in cinemas.

The film also opened at No. 1 in the Philippines during its first weekend.

Locally, “Michael” posted the second-best start for a biopic, behind “Bohemian Rhapsody,” according to Universal Pictures Philippines.

The film also landed the second-biggest worldwide debut of the year, behind “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.”

Industry reports placed the global opening at about USD 217 million, including USD 97 million in North America and more than USD 120 million overseas, making it the biggest global opening for a music biopic.

In celebration of the release, Universal Pictures Philippines staged a “Michael”-themed flash mob in front of SM Megamall.

The performance featured dancers from the International Dance League, who recreated some of Michael Jackson’s signature moves.

The dance sequence was choreographed by award-winning instructor Will “Big Will” Simmons.

Universal Pictures Philippines shared clips of the Manila activation through Instagram and TikTok under the promotional note, “Watch Michael turn the beat up in Manila.”

“Michael” is billed as a cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists in pop music history.

The film follows Michael Jackson’s journey from the discovery of his talent as lead of the Jackson Five to his emergence as a solo artist driven by a relentless pursuit to become the world’s biggest entertainer.

The story highlights both his life offstage and some of the most recognizable performances from his early solo career.

The film stars Jaafar Jackson in his feature film debut as Michael Jackson.

The cast also includes Nia Long of “Empire” and “The Best Man” franchise, Laura Harrier of “BlacKkKlansman” and “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” and Juliano Krue Valdi of “The Loud House” and “Arco.”

Miles Teller of “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Whiplash” also stars in the film.

Two-time Academy Award nominee Colman Domingo, known for “Sing Sing” and “Rustin,” is also part of the cast.

“Michael” is directed by Antoine Fuqua, the filmmaker behind “Training Day,” “Olympus Has Fallen” and “The Equalizer” franchise.

The screenplay is by three-time Academy Award nominee John Logan, whose credits include “Gladiator” and “The Aviator.”

The film is produced by Academy Award winner Graham King, whose credits include “The Departed” and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” along with John Branca and John McClain.

Branca was an executive producer on “This Is It” and “Thriller 40.”

McClain was an executive producer on “This Is It” and “Michael Jackson Live at Wembley July 16, 1988.”

The film is distributed by Lionsgate in North America and Japan, in partnership with Kino Films, and by Universal Pictures internationally.

“Michael” is now showing in Philippine cinemas.