Hollywood has always earned huge hits from Indian box-office but few of the 2026 releases failed to do so. Films like Project Hail Mary released after the blockbuster Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, has grossed over $9.5 million in India after the internet was taken by storm of reviews. The Mummy by Lee Cronin has also performed better than what was expected. Now, the much-awaited biopic of King Of Pop Michael Jackson - titled Michael, is set for its theatrical release on April 24 and the countdown has just started. The paid previews for the film will begin from 6 PM tomorrow. The trailer has surely kept Indian fans with anticipation and a recent report suggests film is about to get a massive response at Indian box office, with paid preview bookings
witnessing a surge.
Michael To Take Off Indian Box-office?
As per a report in Bollywood Hungama,
Michael starring the legendary singer's nephew
Jaafar Jackson, has sold around 78000 tickets for both the preview and release on Friday onwards. The film has earned tickets worth Rs 3 crore or more as of Wednesday morning. While the theatres from North began selling tickets from Tuesday, and they saw a huge turnout. On the other sphere, Southern cinemas like Prasads Cinemas booked 7000 tickets alone, which shows the craze and fan’s frenzy in India. Michael Jackson is arguably the most famous singer and artist in India from Hollywood since ages. His popularity among Indian masses is definitely proved by the film’s trends in the country vs the world. The trailer itself received tremendous support and appreciation with the pace of the bookings exhibiting the gravity the film holds for fans.
While India saw a huge uproar for the film, the western countries are filled with mixed reviews. The film is facing backlash and challenges as various fans calls it ‘whitewashed’ as well as something that does not tell the truth and the reality. The film received 35% ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, a testimony to fans frustration and dislike towards the depiction.
Michael Jackson's influence on Indian audience
Michael Jackson is widely followed and recognised by Indian audiences. His 1996 concert was attended by 35000-65000 fans which explains his popularity. His visit’s philanthropic aspect like visiting orphanage and slums melted Indian hearts and grew affection. From generations
Michael has been loved for his songs and probably was one of the first artist who brought western pop music to Indian playlists. Dancers like Prabhu Deva and Mithun Chakraborty have adopted his style of breakdance in Indian films. Actors like Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff and many, have always drawn their inspiration from him.