Michael Jackson's albums are poised for a resurgence in the UK charts following the box office success of the biopic Michael, despite poor critical reviews. The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jackson's nephew Jafaar, grossed $217m (£160m) globally in its opening weekend.
In Monday's chart update, the soundtrack Michael: Songs From The Motion Picture sits at number four. Jackson's compilation Number Ones is at seven, while Thriller (1982) and Bad (1987) are at 18 and 22 respectively. The official chart will be announced on Friday.
The film has faced criticism for omitting the child abuse allegations that plagued Jackson's later life. Early press releases suggested the film would cover his 'personal struggles', but reshoots reportedly removed any reference to the allegations after the Jackson estate invoked a clause from a 1993 settlement.
The Independent's one-star review described the film as 'an act of allegiance' that avoids grappling with Jackson's complex legacy. However, actor Colman Domingo, who plays Jackson's father, defended the film, stating it focuses on 'the makings of Michael' from the 1960s to 1988.
