The curtain has closed on a cinematic phenomenon – Michael Jackson's biopic 'Michael' has sent shockwaves through the box office, shattering records and raking in a staggering £750 million globally. The film's astronomical success marks a milestone for the genre, with the movie boasting an incredible $1.001 billion at the worldwide box office – a feat no other biopic can claim.
The unprecedented triumph follows on from its record-breaking opening weekend and its subsequent rise to become the highest-grossing biopic of all time, eclipsing the critically acclaimed 'Oppenheimer'. Director Antoine Fuqua expressed heartfelt gratitude for this achievement, attributing it to the tireless efforts of the cast, crew, and partners, as well as the global audience who fell under the spell of Jackson's captivating story.
The film brings its epic tale to a close with an emotional depiction of Jackson's iconic Wembley Stadium concert, leaving viewers with a poignant message – 'His Story Continues'. This tantalising hint confirms that a sequel is indeed in the works, one that promises to tackle the thorny issue of child sexual abuse allegations that have long plagued the late singer's legacy. Although these claims were initially considered for the original screenplay, they were ultimately omitted due to the complexities surrounding a settlement clause and the need to protect the rights of accusers like Jordan Chandler.
The ongoing drama surrounding Michael Jackson's legacy shows no signs of abating – just last month, it was confirmed that James Safechuck and Wade Robson, who made separate allegations against Jackson in the 2019 documentary 'Leaving Neverland', have been granted a new trial date set for 2028. This development only adds to the complex narrative surrounding the pop star's life and his estate.
While critics have praised 'Michael' for its slick portrayal of Jackson's 'imperial phase', others, including NME's three-star review, have questioned whether the film – as an 'accessible advert' for Jackson's earlier career – would be able to tackle the darker aspects of his life in any future franchise. The challenge ahead will undoubtedly be steep, but one thing is clear: Michael Jackson's legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide.