Movie Ratings: ★★★☆☆ 3/5*
Movie Review:
‘Michael’ Directed by Antoine Fuqua, follows Michael Jackson’s journey from his strict upbringing in Gary, Indiana, to becoming a global solo icon. While the film captures the “winner takes all” mentality driven by his father, Joe Jackson, it largely avoids the more difficult controversies of Michael’s life, opting for a polished and celebration of his career. What truly carries the movie on his shoulder is Jaafar Jackson’s incredible performance; his uncanny resemblance and stage presence make the King of Pop feel alive again on the big screen. It is a visually spectacular movie that focuses on inspiring the audience, making it a must-watch “greatest hits” experience designed specifically for the fans to be experienced on the big screen!
The Narrative Arc
The film kicks off with an iconic visual; a slow, reverent pan up from those unmistakable black loafers—before plunging us into the grueling “bootcamp” origins of the Jackson 5. Guided by the iron fist of Joe Jackson (who treats parenting like a contact sport), the boys are pushed to their breaking point. However, the story quickly shifts gears to show that Michael’s genius was simply too massive for his father’s suffocating grip. The moment a grown Michael declares his independence, essentially telling Joe to “Beat It,” the stage is set for his metamorphosis into a solo global icon. This friction of breaking away from the family shadow provides the high-octane fuel that drives his journey to superstardom.
The Cinematic Experience
Paced like a two-hour-plus music video, this biopic demands your full attention. While the first act occasionally stumbles over the heavy world-building of the Jackson family tree, the second half transforms into an absolute powerhouse of fan service. The final twenty minutes are the undisputed highlight—a goosebump-inducing concert recreation so accurate you’ll be looking for your own sequined glove. Be warned, though: if you’re hunting for a gritty, unfiltered exposé, you’ll be left wanting. The script intentionally moonwalks past the singer’s darker controversies, opting for a sanitized, celebratory tone that might annoy the critics but will absolutely thrill the fans.
The Cast
Despite having zero acting miles on his odometer, Jaafar Jackson delivers a performance of pure commitment, channeling his uncle with an intensity that anchors the entire climax. Colman Domingo is a scene-stealer, bringing terrifying weight and complexity to the domineering Joe, while Nia Long provides a much-needed warm emotional hug as Katherine. Miles Teller handles his material with professional ease (even if he feels a bit underused), and Laura Harrier manages to make a lingering impact despite her brief screen time.
Technical Execution & Verdict
While the domestic scenes look like a traditional biopic, Dion Beebe’s cinematography absolutely explodes during the musical numbers, backed by Lior Rosner’s infectious arrangements. Director Antoine Fuqua clearly had one mission: create an unashamedly joyous, crowd-pleasing tribute without getting bogged down by the “heavy” stuff. He succeeds immensely. Michael is a beautifully crafted, highly entertaining celebration of a musical titan that will keep the devotees cheering in the aisles for atleast a 100 years to come.
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