'Michael' becomes highest-grossing biopic ever

The Michael Jackson biopic 'Michael' has become the highest-grossing biographical film of all time, overtaking Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer' with a worldwide box office haul of $977 million (£739 million).

The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, had already claimed the title of the highest-grossing musical biopic after surpassing 2018's 'Bohemian Rhapsody'. With its latest milestone, it now stands as the most commercially successful biopic ever released.

Released in April, 'Michael' opened to a strong global debut, earning $217 million in its first week and quickly overtaking 'Straight Outta Compton' and 'Bohemian Rhapsody'. It has also become Lionsgate Studios' highest-grossing film, surpassing 'The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.'

The film chronicles Michael Jackson's journey from his early years with the Jackson 5 to his rise as the global "King of Pop." Jackson's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, stars in the lead role alongside Colman Domingo and Nia Long, who portray his parents.

While audiences have praised the film for its recreation of Jackson's iconic performances and music videos, Jaafar Jackson's portrayal of his late uncle has also drawn widespread acclaim.

Critical reception, however, has been sharply divided. Several reviewers argued that the film presents a sanitized version of Jackson's life by excluding sexual abuse allegations after related scenes were reportedly removed following legal concerns.

Publications including The Hollywood Reporter, The Telegraph and The Independent offered mixed-to-negative assessments, while audience ratings on review platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes have remained significantly stronger.

Backed by Michael Jackson's estate, the film features the late singer's original vocals and has reignited global interest in his music.

According to industry reports, Jackson has become the most-streamed artist on YouTube in the UK over the past month, while "Billie Jean" currently ranks as Spotify's most-streamed song worldwide. His compilation album, The Essential Michael Jackson, has also returned to the top of the UK albums chart.

Industry publication Variety reported that Lionsgate is planning at least one more film exploring Jackson's life, following the unprecedented commercial success of Michael.