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Michael’ Sets Biopic Box-Office Record Despite Poor Reviews

Lionsgate is eyeing a sequel after estate-led edits kept the film focused on Jackson’s rise before 1989.

Overview

  • Michael, which opened Friday, April 24, earned about $97 million in the U.S. opening weekend and roughly $226 million worldwide within four days.
  • Viewers scored the film far higher than critics, with a 97% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an A- CinemaScore versus about 38% from critics.
  • Producers cut planned 1993 material after estate lawyers flagged a 1994 settlement that limited dramatizing the Chandler family, leading to reshoots and a release that stops around 1988.
  • Lionsgate’s film chief said there is “at least one more movie” under consideration, and key cast and the director have signaled interest in returning.
  • Jackson’s music streams surged after release, with his solo catalog up 116% in the first days per Luminate, while industry reports point to PVOD in mid-June and a Starz debut before a later move to Prime Video.