Michael

Trigger warning: movie includes scenes of domestic violence

HEEE HEEE…. HOOOOOOO, now that I have your attention. Michael Jackson, MJ, King of Pop, was a controversial figure, but there’s no denying his talent. From humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, to the world stage, see just how he got there and what he had to overcome. This covers the first half of MJ’s career from 1966 to 1988. Somehow, Antoine Fuqua, the director of The Equalizer franchise, of all things, captured the emotions of a biopic very well. The cast includes Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, and more. If you’re wondering if Jackson was portrayed with a CGI face, nope, that resemblance is all genetic; his nephew Jafaar Jackson (son of Jermaine) took on the role. Spending two years preparing it, you truly can’t tell the difference in some scenes. Critics have dismissed the movie because it isn’t like the gritty and tortured biopics that we’ve seen recently (A Complete Unknown, Deliver Me From Nowhere). That’s true, it’s more like Bohemian Rhapsody, a fun and sparkly retelling of an iconic performer’s past. That said, there are sad or solemn moments, but overall, it’s very well made, and you can’t deny that. It does justice to his legacy with his family’s approval, as all his brothers are producers on the movie. It’s worth noting that the original screenplay included the molestation allegation from the early 90s, but due to a clause in the settlement, the third act was reshot and ends before that timeframe. At this time, a sequel hasn’t been confirmed but is anticipated. I won’t tell you you have to see it, but I will say that whenever you do, you’ll have a lot of fun!

Rating: 4.5/5