“Michael”, the highly anticipated biographical film about the late pop icon Michael Jackson, debuted at the top of the North American box office over the weekend, earning an impressive $97 million, according to industry estimates released on Sunday.
The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate, traces the legendary performer’s journey from child star to global music phenomenon.
Taking on the lead role is Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew.
“This is a record-shattering opening for a musical biography,” said analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research.
He noted that the film has received strong audience approval, describing it as “a feel-good, nostalgic appreciation,” although critical reviews have been less favourable.
“Most critics feel the film is superficial and avoids the complicated parts of the performer’s life, including allegations of sexual misbehaviour,” Gross said, adding that a second instalment is already in development.
Having already premiered in Europe, the film has grossed nearly $220 million worldwide, according to Exhibitor Relations.
In second place at the US and Canadian box office was The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which added $21.2 million.
After holding the top spot for three consecutive weeks, the animated sequel from Universal Pictures and Illumination Studios has now generated over $775 million globally.
Third place went to Project Hail Mary, produced by Amazon MGM Studios, earning $13.2 million. The film stars Ryan Gosling as a teacher-turned-astronaut tasked with saving Earth from a dimming sun and has accumulated nearly $600 million worldwide.
In fourth place was The Mummy, directed by Lee Cronin and released by Warner Bros., which earned $5.6 million.
Fifth place went to The Drama, produced by A24, starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. The film added $2.6 million, bringing its global total to $80 million.
Rounding out the top 10 were:
“Hoppers” ($1.9 million),
“You, Me & Tuscany” ($1.5 million),
“Over Your Dead Body” ($1.4 million),
“I Swear” ($640,000),
and “Normal” ($625,000).