Lionsgate’s Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has opened to record-breaking box office results in North America. The Antoine Fuqua-directed film opened in 3,955 theaters and grossed $39.5 million on its first day. Early estimates suggest it could gross $90 million to $100 million over the weekend. That’s the best opening for a music biopic, surpassing the records set by Bohemian Rhapsody ($51 million in 2018) and Straight Outta Compton ($60 million in 2015).
The film cost an estimated $155 million to produce, much of which went toward acquiring music rights and recreating concert scenes. After filming wrapped, the company had to invest tens of millions more to rework the final part of the film. The third act was originally set to focus on the 1993 sexual assault lawsuit against Michael Jackson, which the artist denied. However, due to a clause in the plaintiff’s agreement prohibiting his mention or depiction in film projects, the finale had to be changed.
In the new version, the narrative focuses on Michael Jackson’s relationship with his father, Joe Jackson, played by Colman Domingo. Michael himself is played by the singer’s nephew, Jafar Jackson. The film also stars Nia Long, Ryan Gill, Joseph David-Jones, and Jamal Henderson.
Thus, the Lionsgate project demonstrates significant commercial success and may significantly influence the company’s future business strategies.