# Michael Jackson Biopic Sparks Divide Between Critics and Fans

The Michael Jackson biopic is in theaters, but audiences and critics are reacting in starkly different ways. Behind the scenes, the film has been a magnet for controversy: Paris Jackson has slammed the project as filled with “full-blown lies,” while Leaving Neverland director Dan Reed accuses it of sidestepping sexual assault allegations involving the singer. Colman Domingo, who portrays Joe Jackson, has defended the film, explaining why certain accusations weren’t addressed on screen.

Critics vs. audiences

• The movie is drawing a notable split between critics and moviegoers. While many critics have delivered negative takes, fans appear to be embracing the film.
• Rotten Tomatoes currently shows a wide gap: about 40% from critics versus roughly 96% from the audience.

What critics are saying

• Empire described Michael as “deeply generic.”
• IndieWire labeled it “glossy, sanitized, and surprisingly dull.”
• IGN offered a blunt assessment, calling the film “really, really bad.”
• The BBC likewise weighed in, characterizing the biopic as “a bland and barely competent daytime TV movie.”

Reaction from Michael Jackson’s family and supporters

• Taj Jackson, Michael’s nephew, took to social media to push back against the press narrative, writing that the public will decide for themselves after seeing the film and that critics cannot control that narrative. He added that some critics will have to eat crow someday.
• Taj also urged people not to rely on “professional” critics when it comes to his family.
• Fans chimed in with messages of support, with one viewer saying they loved the movie despite negative commentary, and another noting that the media has often been unfair to Michael while “the people” have stood by him.
• Frankie Muniz voiced his praise for the film, sharing that he enjoyed it and appreciated the focus on live performance rather than phone use in the audience.
• A common sentiment among supporters echoed the idea that many critics are biased against Michael or the Jackson family, insisting viewers should judge for themselves.

Box office outlook

• The film is projected to gross between $65 million and $70 million in the United States during its opening weekend, with a global total potentially reaching up to $150 million.

Related reading

• If you’re curious about similar titles, you can explore a list of notable music biopics.

Note: The article references reactions and statements from various parties and reflects the discussion surrounding the film at the time of publication.