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Tokyo-based Kino Films has struck a deal with Lionsgate and GK Films to distribute Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, in Japan. Lionsgate is releasing domestically, with Universal set to handle international markets, save Japan where Kino Films expects to release in 2025. The North American release is slated for April 18, 2025. The announcement of the Japan deal was made by Helen Lee-Kim, President, International, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, and Naoya Kinoshita, CEO of Kino Films and Kinoshita Group.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film is currently in post-production. Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson leads the ensemble as Michael, with Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier and Juliano Krue Valdi among others in key roles.
Per the logline, “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became known worldwide as the King of Pop. This epic, cinematic film will examine Jackson’s triumphs and tragedies — from his human side, to his public and private struggles, to the accusations and the 24/7 media microscope Jackson lived under, even at his artistic apex.”
In a statement provided to Deadline, Fuqua said, “I cannot wait to share this film with the people of Japan. Their love for Michael’s music and his message is infectious. The team at Kino Films is truly embracing the film we are making and it’s exciting to be working with them.”
Added producer Graham King, ”I’m thrilled to have such great partners in Kino Films. Michael’s fanbase in Japan has always been extraordinary and to this day, one of my favorite concerts was the Bad Tour Live in Yokohama. Michael’s electrifying performance and the energy from that audience served as inspiration for what we wanted to recreate in the film.”
Naoya Kinoshita, CEO of Kino Films and Kinoshita Group, commented, “Everyone at Kino Films is honored to be distributing this film in Japan. After seeing early footage of the film, we couldn’t contain our excitement. Michael’s popularity has never waned, and we are confident that the fans will embrace this look at his life.”
Universal previously showed off footage from the biopic during CineEurope in June which wowed the audience with a scene centering on the making of the iconic “Thriller” video.
Michael is produced by King and the co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate, John Branca and John McClain. The deal with Kino was negotiated for Lionsgate by Wendy Reeds and Michael Meyer.