Michael Jackson Biopic Directed by Antoine Fuqua Hits Big at the Box Office
The biopic, michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, has taken the box office by storm, raking in a remarkable $97 million domestically during its opening weekend. When looking beyond the U.S., it added another $120 million internationally, making it the highest-grossing film worldwide in its first three days, totaling an impressive $217 million.
Notably, the film’s $97 million domestic debut not only set a record for music biopics but also surpassed the previous record held by Straight Outta Compton, which debuted at $60 million in 2015.
While Bohemian Rhapsody currently holds the record for overall earnings in this genre at $911 million in 2018, michael has a solid chance to compete, especially with its domestic earnings of $217 million, though it still has a long way to go to match the $694 million earned overseas by its predecessor.
Interestingly, fans of Michael Jackson have shown that they prioritize the artist’s legacy over the criticisms that have arisen in today’s climate of film critique.
Although Jackson was never convicted of any misconduct, and the allegations against him were quite questionable, the film still faced backlash from critics for not portraying him negatively enough. This criticism often reflects a broader issue where some movie reviewers seem to prioritize their moral stances over evaluating a work on its own merits. It’s as if they expect films to fit their personal narratives, leading to an unfair assessment of michael.
The reviews have been harsh, with a glaring score of 38 percent from critics, which raises some questions. Is it really necessary for biopics to delve into only the negative aspects of a person’s life? Do fans deserve to be punished for their admiration?
Moreover, it begs the question: why should audiences be bombarded with negative portrayals? Films aren’t necessarily about presenting unvarnished truth. Instead, they often reflect the filmmaker’s vision or message. Fuqua and screenwriter John Logan chose to highlight Jackson’s incredible talent, ambition, and the tremendous challenges he overcame on his path to becoming a cultural icon.
What’s the harm in emphasizing success and passion, especially when there’s already a plethora of content delving into the allegations against him? Why should fans be scolded for their appreciation of an artist’s work instead of being celebrated for their loyalty?
If someone wishes to focus on Michael Jackson through a lens of suspicion, perhaps they should create their own film.
