By Darlene Donloe
Contributing Writer
The highly-anticipated biopic “Michael” finally hits theaters on April 24, amid promises of an electrifying experience for fans and a thought-provoking exploration of the King of Pop’s life for others.
The iconic pop star is played by Jaafar Jackson, his nephew and the son of Michael’s brother, Jermaine Jackson.
Jaafar’s performance as his uncle Michael is eerily spot-on as he captures the singer’s electrifying essence. He delivers a much-ballyhooed and stunning performance, especially in the high-energy concert scenes where his dance moves mirror those of the superstar.
However, the Michael Jackson biopic has been making waves, including controversy surrounding the film’s production.
Some family members, including siblings Janet and Randy Jackson, and Paris Jackson (Michael’s daughter), publicly expressed discontent, citing a lack of involvement and accuracy concerns. Meanwhile, Michael’s sons, Prince and Bigi support the film.
The absence of Janet Jackson in the family dynamic is notable, sparking speculation about the film’s portrayal of the Jackson family. Her absence speaks volumes.
Those issues aside, the film is really about MJ’s music. Grooving to Jackson’s iconic hits like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” “Billie Jean,” and “Thriller” was a pure nostalgic moment. The film’s soundtrack is a masterclass in showcasing his musical genius, with standout tracks like “Human Nature” and “Bad” transporting viewers back to the magic of his era.
The story, told in chronological order from 1966 to 1988, takes a look at Jackson’s life before he was engulfed in controversy, i.e., legal troubles in 1993 and beyond, regarding child sexual abuse allegations.
The film moves quickly from the Jackson 5’s humble beginnings in 1966 to the time Motown exec Suzanne DePasse discovers them during a show at Chicago’s Regal Theater, to their eventual signing to the Motown label in 1969.
Kudos to Juliano Krue Valdi, who portrays a young, impressionable, fragile, but incredibly talented Michael Jackson in the film.
The biopic glosses over the complexities of Michael’s life, instead focusing on well-known anecdotes and surface-level details. While the film showcases his affection for eccentric pets like Bubbles the chimp, a snake, and a llama, he allegedly took on nightly walks (“they’re not my pets, they’re my friends”), it shies away from anything contentious and neglects to delve into his anxieties, isolation and other idiosyncrasies that defined him.
The result is a musically satisfying but sanitized portrayal, lacking depth and nuance. The film’s shallow narrative and decision to omit darker aspects of Jackson’s life, doesn’t do the film justice.
Director Antoine Fuqua and writer John Logan opted for a more family-friendly approach, prioritizing Jackson’s music and artistic achievements.
While the film is enjoyable, it still leaves questions about Michael Jackson, the man.
There are some hints into his psyche.
The film offers glimpses into Michael’s inner world, showcasing his bond with his mother, Katherine, over shared loves like ice cream, popcorn and classic comedies. These tender moments humanize him, revealing a vulnerable, childlike side.
We also see his compassionate streak, visiting hospitals to brighten sick kids’ days. And, of course, there are the iconic songwriting sessions, where he’d retreat to his lair to craft future classics. Those snippets make you wonder what made him tick.
Michael’s response to his mother’s concern about his lack of friends is heartbreaking. He gently points out that his animals are his true friends, implying that people outside are more interested in his fame than in a genuine connection.
It’s a poignant moment, highlighting the isolation and scrutiny he faced, and how it shaped his worldview. The scene effectively conveys the emotional toll of his childhood fame and the struggles of trusting others.
The film explores the pop star’s early beginnings back in Gary, Indiana, when his father, Joe Jackson, a steel worker played with a steeliness by Colman Domingo, wanted better for his family — so he verbally and physically pushed his sons to become the Jackson 5, a singing group that eventually became one of the most successful pop/R&B groups in history.
The film, at times choppy, delves into the strained relationship he had with his father (who would beat him), his soft-spoken and devoted mother, Katherine, played by Nia Long, his brothers, Berry Gordy Jr., played by Larenz Tate, John Branca, his lawyer/manager and current estate executor, played by Miles Teller and his security, Bill Bray (KeiLyn Durrel Jones). Branca is also one of the film’s producers.
In one scene, it shows Michael about to get his first nose job because he wanted to look “perfect” and how he hid his actions from his family, trying to avoid everyone when he went home with a bandaged nose.
Another scene shows Michael viewing a television news story about the rivalry between the Los Angeles street gangs, the Crips and the Bloods, and how he got the bright idea to bring them together in a warehouse to make peace and dance, eventually coming up with the choreography for the legendary “Beat It” video. The scene is sterile, but cool to watch.
In another scene, Michael is dancing in front of dancers for the “Thriller” video, and flexes his creativity by reminding the video’s director, John Landis, to shoot his feet so as not to “remove the energy from the dance”.
Some worthy performances come out of the film. Jaafar’s portrayal is uncanny, capturing Michael’s mannerisms, stage presence, and vulnerability with eerie precision.
Nia Long shines as Katherine Jackson, exuding warmth and strength, while Colman Domingo is chilling as a threatening and demanding Joe Jackson, bringing a simmering intensity to the role. Whatever one can say about Joe Jackson’s intimidating tactics, he was instrumental in his sons becoming one of the most successful groups in history.
The film’s musical sequences are breathtaking, with recreated performances that transport the audience back to the 1980s.
If audiences are looking for a deep dive into Michael Jackson’s life, the film might not be the best fit. It doesn’t offer any groundbreaking insights. However, if audiences are craving a nostalgic trip back to the magic of his music, they’re in luck.
While there are some pacing issues and omissions of darker aspects of his life, the film’s overall impact is undeniable.
Others may see the film as a celebration of his artistry and legacy. Whatever the perspective, one thing is clear: Michael Jackson’s music and influence continue to captivate audiences. What’s evident is the genius of Michael Jackson and how he left us way too soon.
“Michael,” directed by Antoine Fuqua with a script by John Logan, is executive produced by several Jackson siblings, including Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, Tito, and La Toya.
Darlene Donloe is a freelance reporter for Wave Newspapers who covers South Los Angeles. She can be reached at ddonloe@gmail.com.
