Michael Jackson Movie Breaks Records and Beats Critics
Box Office Milestone
The new film about Michael Jackson opened with an impressive $97 million in the United States during its first weekend—higher than any other musical biopic ever to debut in America. It surpassed the 2015 film Straight Outta Compton, which earned $60 million.
Worldwide, the movie added an extra $120 million in just three days, bringing its total to roughly $217 million. While still far from the 2018 global record set by Bohemian Rhapsody at $911 million, it has already outperformed that film’s domestic earnings.
Story Overview
The narrative follows Jackson from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his rise as the “King of Pop” in 1988. Director Antoine Fuqua and writer John Logan chose to focus on Jackson’s talent, ambition, and the obstacles he overcame—eschewing a deep dive into the serious allegations that have surrounded him for years. This decision drew criticism from some reviewers, who called the film “humiliating” to those who feel it should address every aspect of Jackson’s life.
Reception Spectrum
- Positive: Many moviegoers praised the film for its music, visuals, and celebration of Jackson’s legacy.
- Critical: Others felt disappointed that the film did not tackle his controversial past.
The divergent reactions underscore how opinions about art can vary widely. The film’s success indicates that audiences are still captivated by Jackson’s music and story, suggesting a movie does not need to answer every question about its subject to achieve popularity.
Debate on Biopic Scope
- Some argue a biopic should cover all sides of its subject.
- Others contend a film can choose one perspective to tell a compelling story.
This debate fuels lively and complex movie criticism, keeping the conversation about biographical storytelling vibrant.
