The Michael Jackson biopic, 'Michael', seized the top spot at the U.S. box office this weekend, dethroning 'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' following a massive opening performance.
According to reports from polygon.com, the film earned $97 million domestically. On a global scale, the production's three-day opening weekend reached $217 million.
While the film's three-day total did not match the scale of 'The Super Mario and Galaxy Movie's' performance, it proved sufficient to claim the number one position. The outlet reported the following top ten film grosses for the weekend of April 24:
- Michael: $97 million
- The Super Mario Galaxy Movie: $21.2 million
- Project Hail Mary: $13.2 million
- Lee Cronin's The Mummy: $5.63 million
- The Drama: $2.64 million
- Hoppers: $1.9 million
- You, Me & Tuscany: $1.5 million
- Over Your Dead Body: $1.42 million
- Mother Mary: $1.25 million
- American Youngboy: $1.19 million
Record-breaking performance and critical backlash
'Michael' stands as the second-biggest opening of 2026, yet the film achieved significant industry milestones. The release surpassed the biopic opening weekend record previously held by 'Straight Outta Compton'.
Furthermore, the film secured the highest-grossing first three days for any Lionsgate release since 'The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2' debuted in 2015. Polygon.com noted that 'Michael now has the opening weekend that all other live-action movies released this year will try to outgross, even though The Super Mario Galaxy Movie retains the top spot.'
Despite the financial success, critical reception has been much harsher. The film currently holds a 'generally unfavorable' Metascore of 39 on Metacritic and a 38% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Polygon.com criticized the film for its handling of the subject's history, specifically for 'ignoring the sexual assault allegations that have been leveled at Michael Jackson before and after his death.'
Audience sentiment appears to diverge from professional critics. User ratings on both Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes remain significantly higher than the critic scores. High audience engagement and strong opening numbers suggest the film will maintain a presence in theaters for the foreseeable future.
