Lionsgate's Michael Jackson biopic "Michael" electrified traders with confirmed opening weekend estimates of $97 million domestic, landing firmly in the 95-100m strike and shattering records for musical biopics ahead of "Straight Outta Compton" ($60M) and "Bohemian Rhapsody" ($51M). Surging presales, record $12.6 million Thursday previews, and a massive $39.5 million Friday propelled the momentum, as audience scores trumped poor critical reception amid nostalgia for the King of Pop and Jaafar Jackson's uncanny performance. Tracking escalated from $50-60 million a month ago to $85-105 million pre-release, fueled by global buzz including strong China pre-sales. Final studio tallies due Monday are unlikely to shift below 95 million, though an improbable audit downgrade could enable a rare upset.