Sony statement about the TII film record

Sony has released the following statement regarding the global box-office record for Michael Jackson’s film, This Is It: "The film This Is It by Michael Jackson is recognized as the highest-grossing concert film in the history of cinema. Behind-the-scenes of the rehearsals of the pop music legend, with $101 million in sales over 5 days, broke the record for this genre of film." Sony Pictures in London announced on November 2 that Michael Jackson’s film, since its release on October 28, with outstanding sales of £4.9 million, has become the top-grossing film at the UK box office. In response to widespread demand, the film’s run has been extended. This Is It has achieved, so far, the fifth position among the top-grossing films worldwide in 2009 when taking into account the length of its theatrical run. In Japan, with sales of $10.4 million, it became the third highest-grossing film of the year in that country during its first week. Sales in some other countries include $6.3 million in Germany, $5.8 million in France, $3.6 million in Australia, $3.2 million in China, $2.9 million in Italy, and $2.6 million in Spain. During its first three days in North America, it was the top-grossing film of the week with $21.3 million. Viewers were 49% male and 51% female, and 62% of the total audience were people over the age of 25. The film has earned an “A” cinema rating and is among the films that received the best reviews. 80% of the reviews written about the film were positive. Jeff Blake, head of marketing and distribution at Sony Pictures, said about the film: "This film is an unmatched tribute to Michael Jackson and his extraordinary music. Kenny Ortega has crafted a masterful celebration that showcases Michael’s pure genius in his creative work—turning him into one of the greatest showmen in history. In just 5 days, this film became the highest-grossing concert film in cinema history, and we are proud of the response that fans, critics, and moviegoers around the world have given to this film. With such global demand, it’s clear that the film’s run will be extended, and we are doing everything we can to make this film accessible to anyone who wants to experience Michael on the big screen. With the film’s 5-day earnings, the company has now earned more than all the costs it incurred to produce this film." This film is the last available document of Michael Jackson while he was working as a singer, dancer, filmmaker, architect, creative genius, and one of the greatest artists in history. Source: eMJey / Sony Pictures