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Documentary

Becoming (2020): Cast, Ratings & Box Office

Becoming (2020) movie poster

Becoming is a 2020 documentary directed by Nadia Hallgren, starring Michelle Obama, Barack Obama and Phoebe Robinson. It runs 1 hour 29 minutes and earned $14,285 worldwide on a $1.8 million budget. Critics gave it 93% on Rotten Tomatoes and 66 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 4.8/10.

IMDb rating
4.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes
93%
worldwide gross
$14.3K
Echo Score
68
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Becoming (2020) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 29m (89 min)
Director
Nadia Hallgren
Genre
Documentary
Original language
English
Studio
Netflix
Budget
$1.8M
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Becoming About?

The premise of Becoming without spoilers.

This intimate documentary follows Michelle Obama during a pivotal chapter in her life and the nation's history. Viewers are given a rare glimpse into her world as she embarks on a cross-country tour. She connects with people from diverse backgrounds, sharing stories and working to bridge cultural divides. The film showcases her inspiring journey and offers a personal look at a remarkable woman.

Becoming Themes & Keywords

· 17 tags
  • road trip
  • double iris
  • aspirin allergy
  • pregnancy test
  • engagement
  • ancient evil
  • syringe
  • assault
  • suicide
  • affair
  • woman
  • young
+5 more
  • possession
  • forest
  • evil entity
  • psychological thriller
  • partner
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Cast & crew

Becoming Cast

Michelle Obama leads the cast, with Barack Obama and Phoebe Robinson. Directed by Nadia Hallgren.

Ratings

Becoming Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Becoming 93% on Rotten Tomatoes and 66 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 4.8/10. Our Echo Score gives it 68/100, strongest in sensory experience (75) and weakest in story & flow (60).

68 /100

Becoming Echo Score Breakdown

Becoming delivers an accessible and motivating portrait of Michelle Obama’s life after the White House. Reviews highlight its compelling crowd interactions and candid tour footage, though several critics note the documentary’s carefully curated perspective limits deeper insight. The pacing is generally steady, with occasional lulls in momentum. Overall, the film offers an engaging yet somewhat surface-level exploration that resonates through its emotionally uplifting moments.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 70

    In terms of direction and visual presentation, Becoming offers a polished and coherent style. The film’s stadium sequences and behind-the-scenes footage are framed with clarity, and the occasional use of thematic music underscores key moments. While the documentary does not prioritize experimental cinematography, it maintains a consistent and appealing aesthetic. The net impression is one of well-crafted but conventional visual storytelling.

  • Character & Emotion 65

    When it comes to character depth and emotional resonance, the film balances warm portrayals with limited introspection. Viewers experience Michelle Obama’s drive and humility through personal anecdotes and audience interactions, yet some critics find the treatment too deferential. On the supportive side, candid moments reveal her thoughtful engagement with fans and family. The overall effect is emotionally satisfying but stops short of profound character study.

  • Story & Flow 60

    In terms of narrative flow and pacing, Becoming unfolds as a series of thematic vignettes rather than a tightly woven plot. The documentary moves steadily through Michelle Obama’s book tour, interspersing reflective commentary with celebratory events. Some viewers appreciate the contemplative rhythm, while others note occasional sluggishness in transitions. The story remains coherent and accessible, though it offers limited surprise or narrative depth.

  • Sensory Experience 75

    Regarding sensory experience, the documentary benefits from a cohesive audiovisual approach. The soundtrack, including Alicia Keys’ anthem, energizes key sequences, and the sound design keeps live events immersive. Visually, the film employs clean framing and naturalistic lighting, emphasizing authenticity. Although it does not push stylistic boundaries, the overall sensory palette is engaging and enhances the film’s emotional warmth.

  • Rewatch Factor 65

    When it comes to replay value, Becoming offers enduring appeal through its uplifting tone and motivational messaging. Audiences may revisit the film for inspiring highlights and personal reflections on resilience and community. However, the lack of new revelations and the polished nature of its presentation may limit repeated viewings. In sum, the documentary maintains a positive and inviting atmosphere but does not compel extensive rewatching.

Box office

Becoming Box Office & Budget

Becoming grossed $14,285 worldwide on a $1.8 million budget.

2020 box office

Worldwide gross

$14.3K

International
$14.3K
Budget
$1.8M
Videos

Becoming Trailers & Videos

2 videos: 1 trailer and 1 featurette.

Official Trailer
  • Featurette First Look
Details

Becoming Also Known As

19 alternative titles, including “Michelle Obama's Becoming” and “Becoming: la mia storia”.

Also known as
  • Michelle Obama's Becoming
  • Becoming: la mia storia
  • Becoming - La mia storia
  • Becoming: Η Δική μου Ιστορία
  • 미셸 오바마의 비커밍
  • Devenir
  • Becoming: Mi historia
  • Így lettem, გახდომა
  • הסיפור שלי
  • Benim Hikayem
  • Becoming: A Minha História
  • Minha História
+7 more
  • 成為這樣的我:蜜雪兒·歐巴馬
  • Můj příběh
  • Becoming - Meine Geschichte
  • 成为:米歇尔·奥巴马自传
  • Michelle Obama: Min historie
  • Povestea mea
  • 成為這樣的我

Seen Becoming?

FAQ

Becoming FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office, ratings and post-credit scenes of Becoming, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Becoming?

Becoming runs 1 hour 29 minutes (89 minutes).

When was Becoming released?

Becoming was released on May 6, 2020.

Who directed Becoming?

Becoming was directed by Nadia Hallgren.

More films by Nadia Hallgren

Who is in the cast of Becoming?

Becoming stars Michelle Obama, Barack Obama and Phoebe Robinson.

How much did Becoming make at the box office?

Becoming grossed $14,285 worldwide on a budget of $1.8 million.

How is Becoming rated?

Becoming has 4.8/10 on IMDb, 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, 66 on Metacritic and 74% on TMDB.

Does Becoming have a post-credit scene?

No. Becoming has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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