I should begin this review with a full disclaimer that I am a massive fan of the late Michael Jackson: I grew up watching the Thriller video with my sisters, I own CDs of all his albums (even the posthumous ones), I won a school talent contest recreating his dancing style including the Moonwalk, and I own a special vinyl record of the album BAD (my favorite), which has the cover of the album printed directly onto the record itself. The music, the commitment to perfection, and the persona of a playful person spreading joy and excitement has always resonated with me, and I have always admired those aspects of the late King of Pop.
Having said that, I am not ignorant of the unfortunate and less-than-ideal aspects of Michael’s life that some of us may wish had simply never happened, but are systemic to the publics terrible habit of forgetting that even the most talented and gifted people among us are still human, and therefore susceptible to the same flaws and, in some cases, unintentional behaviors that lead to greater tragedies down the road.
What I mean to say is that my experience in watching todays subject, Michael, a musical biopic of the legendary King of Pop himself, is one that seems like a ripe opportunity to test my critical metal. While the music, general presentation, and historical likelihoods are well presented and enjoyable to see, the lack of interest into the nuance of his talent, along with a less-than-ideal exploration into the life and essence of Michael Jackson himself (aside from his troubled relationship with his jackass of a father), results in the cinematic equivalent of a tribute concert: it goes through all of the greatest hits without delving deeper into the essence of what made the man as memorable or as nuanced as he was to begin with. Yes, the film was fun, enjoyable in many ways, and Jaafar Jackson does a spectacular job embodying his late uncle (more on that later), but aside from well-observed mimicry, and excellently recreated concert and music video experiences, Michael Jackson’s legacy deserved so much more than what amounts to a highly polished puff piece.
Also, where the hell was Janet?
The film follows Michael Jackson’s origins and career starting from his roots in Gary, Indiana all the way to the release of the album BAD; highlighting his troubled and painful “relationship” with his father and kind of glossing over his most historic achievements. While the movie gives a little insight into Michael’s talents and theatrical skills, it never goes any deeper into the nuances or the spirit of his creativity. It is similar to my many issues with the Queen biopic, Bohemian Rhapsody: although Michael is significantly more enjoyable and technically competent than that boring train wreck, neither film seems to have any interest in delving deeper into the driving forces behind their talents, inspirations, and reasons behind their creative choices. You know, the things that made them so memorable and entertaining in the first place?
It’s especially annoying when you consider the kind of stage presence and skills of showmanship that Michael Jackson possessed: he was very knowledgable and super skilled at stage craft, presentation, and creating his own kind of magic when performing. Yes, the film shows what it all looked like and how audiences felt about it, but there’s so little time spent exploring what made it all manifest within Michael to begin with, that you’re left wondering why they bothered to bring any of it up in the first place. For example: we never really learn why Michael was such a horror movie buff; something that would have been really nice to learn and watch unfold into his music and creativity.
One of the few things that makes this movie worth seeing is how incredibly well Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, embodies and recreates his late uncle's persona and stage presence. Jaafar nails Michael’s moves, sounds, and mannerisms to a “T” with expert precision and commitment. I don’t know what his future will be beyond this movie, but I genuinely hope that he gets to enjoy a career of his own in whatever filed he choses; he’s got some powerful talent of his own.
Michael is yet another musical biopic that is not as interested in the artists humanity as it should have been. While the presentation and well recreated highlights of Michael’s career are astonishing to watch, and the central driving force behind Michael’s need to stand up to his evil father is, at the very least, emotionally resonating enough to carry the story, and provide a little insight into what made Michael the kind of person he was, the film ultimately left me longing for greater depth than what was provided. Although my time did not feel wasted, and I greatly appreciate many aspects of the film, especially Jaafar’s talents and skills, Michael’s legacy deserves a more in-depth exploration than this!
I do recommend you see it, especially in theaters, but do so knowing what to expect. Also, special warning for those with any kind of photosensitivity's.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
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