The Michael Jackson biopic Michael launched to a projected $95 million to $100 million U.S. debut and $200 million globally, marking a major win for Lionsgate despite a 38% Rotten Tomatoes critics score. Audiences gave it a 96% approval rating, praising Jaafar Jackson's portrayal of the singer. The film ends in 1988, avoiding later abuse allegations due to legal constraints from a settlement with accuser Jordan Chandler.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, Michael focuses on Jackson's early career, culminating with the 1988 Bad tour sequence. The Jackson estate, serving as producers, required reshoots after discovering a clause in a settlement with Jordan Chandler that barred his depiction. Fuqua and a producer received millions more in pay following these changes, according to reports in Variety. The film stars Jaafar Jackson, the singer's nephew and Jermaine Jackson's son, who drew praise from Variety chief critic Owen Gleiberman for capturing Jackson's voice and evolving personality. Young Michael is played by 12-year-old Juliano Krue Valdi, with supporting roles by Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Larenz Tate as Berry Gordy, and Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones, alongside Miles Teller and Mike Myers. The supporting cast highlights '90s Black actors often underutilized in Hollywood. Critics have faulted the film for sidestepping abuse allegations, similar to other biopics like Elvis, which omitted Elvis Presley's relationship with a teenage Priscilla and still earned eight Oscar nominations, and Bohemian Rhapsody, which downplayed Freddie Mercury's bisexuality yet won four Oscars. As the film opened, Leaving Neverland accuser James Safechuck issued a message to abuse survivors. Newly resurfaced allegations emerged on Friday, potentially impacting awards prospects. Despite mixed reviews, strong audience support and box office performance position Jaafar Jackson for Golden Globes attention and possible Oscar contention.
