The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” opened to strong box office demand despite poor reviews, exposing a wide gap between critics and audiences. Notably, the Michael biopic received a 40% critic score and a 96% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. North American previews brought in $12.6 million.
Critics described “Michael” as shallow and sanitised, while audience response pointed to continued ticket demand from Michael Jackson’s fanbase. The Lionsgate film arrived amid long-running controversy over Jackson’s life and abuse allegations. The Michael biopic focuses on Jackson’s rise and peak years while avoiding darker chapters that have divided public opinion.
Lionsgate changed the film’s final act after legal restrictions barred any portrayal of the 1993 Jordan Chandler abuse allegations. The studio completed 22 days of reshoots costing up to $15 million and replaced the planned ending with Jackson at his career peak, which shaped the narrative style of the Michael biopic.
The film ends with the message “His story will continue,” raising speculation about a sequel. A follow-up could cover Jackson’s later career, family life and controversies, while cast member Colman Domingo has expressed interest in returning. Ultimately, these developments show the unique cultural impact of the Michael biopic.
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