‘Michael’ Biopic Surpasses ‘Oppenheimer’ in Japan as Michael Jackson’s Legacy Dominates Box Office
The King of Pop continues to reign supreme at the box office. The music biopic ‘Michael’ has officially outperformed Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ in Japan, achieving a significant milestone just seven days after its release.
As per box office tracking reports, ‘Michael’ concluded its first full week in Japan with an estimated $12.5 million in total earnings. The film garnered around $1.2 million on Thursday alone, indicating robust audience interest even beyond its opening period. This performance propelled it ahead of ‘Oppenheimer’s’ $12.2 million box office total in Japan.
The film’s success is attributed to positive word of mouth among viewers. With fans continuing to flock to theaters, projections indicate that ‘Michael’ could surpass $15 million in Japan by its second Saturday, potentially becoming one of the largest Hollywood releases of 2026 in the country.
This success is particularly remarkable as the film is not benefiting from a major holiday period in Japan, a time when movie attendance typically sees a significant boost. The fact that a Hollywood music biopic is performing so well outside of a holiday season makes its achievement even more impressive.
‘Michael’ has already become a global sensation. As of June 17, 2026, the film has earned an estimated $935.6 million worldwide, including $364.5 million from the United States and Canada, and $571.2 million from international markets.
The film’s global performance has shattered several records. It is now the highest-grossing movie in Lionsgate history, surpassing ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire’, which previously held the studio record with around $865 million. Additionally, it has become the highest-grossing music biopic ever, overtaking ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’s’ $911 million global total.
The movie also had a strong opening in North America. After earning $12.6 million from preview screenings, ‘Michael’ opened with a remarkable $39.5 million on its first day, marking the biggest opening day ever for a biographical film. It also recorded the strongest opening weekend for a musical biopic, earning $97.2 million and breaking the previous record held by ‘Straight Outta Compton.’
International audiences have responded enthusiastically as well. The film earned $18.5 million across several overseas markets early in its run, setting opening-day records for a musical biopic in multiple countries. Its international debut eventually reached $121.6 million, bringing its worldwide opening total to over $218 million.
One key factor behind the film’s success seems to be the enduring global appeal of Michael Jackson’s music and legacy. The movie has attracted long-time fans while also introducing a new generation to the story of one of the most iconic performers in history.
The film’s strong performance underscores the current popularity of music-themed movies. While some genres have struggled at the box office, films centered around legendary artists continue to attract large audiences when they resonate with viewers.
With its run in Japan still growing and worldwide numbers on the rise, ‘Michael’ is demonstrating that the King of Pop’s influence remains as potent as ever. What began as a biographical film has evolved into a record-breaking global phenomenon.