The King of Pop returns to the movies, but with a polished crown
Michael Jackson’s life lands again on the big screen. ‘Michael’, directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, hit theaters this Thursday. It’s not a traditional biopic: it focuses on the golden years, from the Jackson 5 to the solitary reign of Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad.
The most talked about is not the plot, but who stars in it. Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, makes his film debut playing his uncle. And be careful: even the harshest critics agree that he nails the gestures, the voice and that stage presence without falling into cheap imitation.
“He doesn’t try to be Michael, he channels it,” say those who have already seen it.
Details that make you fall in love (and others that make you uncomfortable)
Production went downhill. To recreate ‘Thriller’, they filmed on the same Los Angeles street where the original video was shot in 1983. They also rebuilt a Tower Records store and even a Toys “R” Us—yes, although the chain had already closed—to capture that ’80s aesthetic.
The costumes have their own rockstar history: Lady Gaga lent original pieces from her personal collection without charging a peso. He even walked around the set during filming. A great achievement that brings the film closer to the real image of the singer.
What is not counted (and weighed)
Here comes the controversy: the legal accusations that marked his life were left out. The production had to modify the script and reshoot scenes—at an extra cost of $15 million—because they could not perform certain episodes due to the family’s previous legal restrictions.
Critics point out that this leaves a ‘sweetened’ version, focused only on talent and promotion.
The divided family
Janet Jackson said ‘no thanks’. According to People, she was invited but declined to participate. Director Antoine Fuqua respected his decision and highlighted his support for the protagonist as sufficient.
Paris Jackson also distanced herself: she confirmed that she had no participation and questioned how her father’s story would be addressed.
In summary: ‘Michael’ is an impressive visual tribute, with a surprising performance by Jaafar, but one that avoids the shadows of the King of Pop. Perfect for those who want to remember the artist; frustrating for those seeking the whole truth.
