The global box office has a new frontrunner as Michael, the biopic on Michael Jackson, kicks off with a powerful international debut, signalling a potentially massive opening weekend.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson in the lead role, the film earned $18.5 million internationally on its opening day, including preview screenings. The figure has already surpassed the two-day overseas preview total of Oppenheimer, which stood at $15.9 million.
This early momentum has placed Michael firmly ahead of expectations, with projections suggesting a global opening weekend that could approach or exceed $200 million. In North America alone, the film is expected to bring in between $70 million and $80 million, while international markets could contribute $120 million to $140 million over its extended opening frame.
Audience reception has played a key role in driving this surge. The film currently holds a 96 percent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, setting a new benchmark for music biopics and surpassing the previous high of 94 percent held by Elvis. Critics, however, have been more reserved, with a significantly lower score, highlighting a clear divide between reviewers and general audiences.
Industry trackers, including trade analyst Luiz Fernando, indicate that the film is outperforming earlier projections, which had estimated a $75–85 million five-day international opening. The revised outlook now points to a global debut in the range of $190 million to $220 million.
Beyond numbers, Michael explores a defining phase in the life of one of music’s most influential figures, blending performance, personal struggle, and cultural impact. With strong word of mouth and widespread curiosity surrounding Jackson’s story, the film is positioned to sustain its momentum in the days ahead.
As box office estimates continue to evolve, one thing is clear: Michael has not just opened big, it has set the stage for one of the year’s most significant theatrical runs.
