The production team behind ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ has done it again! Aiming to recreate the ‘Queen’ syndrome, the movie ‘Michael’, which portrays the life of the ‘King of Pop’ Michael Jackson, has shot straight to the top of the box office, sparking a new music movie craze in theaters.
According to the Korean Film Council’s integrated ticket network, ‘Michael’ attracted 99,901 viewers on its opening day, May 13, securing the number one spot. This success was expected as the film already held the top pre-sale rate, and it is being seen as the official start of a ‘Michael syndrome’ that transcends all generations.
‘Michael’ is a deep dive into the musical genius and human struggles of Michael Jackson, one of the greatest icons in music history. The biggest draw for audiences is undoubtedly the legendary performances perfectly recreated on screen. From his early days with the ‘Jackson 5’ to his peak as a global solo artist, his musical journey unfolds like a panorama. In particular, the stage performances, polished by the ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ production team, are receiving praise from critics and K-POP stars for capturing the raw energy of a live show.
A major highlight of the film is the phenomenal performance by lead actor Ja’far Jackson. As Michael Jackson’s nephew, he reportedly immersed himself in daily dance practice to the point where he lost sensation in his feet, perfectly embodying his uncle’s movements and voice. Audiences are raving that it feels as if “Michael Jackson has been reincarnated,” and the media is praising his sincere acting that carries the entire film despite him being a newcomer.
There is also a huge buzz around watching the film in special theaters to maximize immersion. With viewers voluntarily recommending that you “must watch it in a special theater with great sound,” a trend of repeat viewings in these premium theaters is expected to grow. Praised for opening a new horizon for music films, ‘Michael’ showed an overwhelming presence from day one and is currently playing in theaters nationwide, establishing itself as the dominant hit of May.
