This Is It, the documentary created from footage of Michael Jackson's last rehearsals for what supposed to be a final 50-show run in London this summer, is not a Thriller by any means. But if you're a fan, you'll still love it.
The film, which premiered last night, felt like a trip down memory lane, a riveting live concert, and a behind-the-scenes documentary all rolled into one.
Whatever his private struggles and addictions may have done to him, they aren't evident here as Michael Jackson is vivid, smooth and polished at 50.
When Sony paid $60 million for the rights to 100 hours of rehearsal footage to pare down to two, we still wondered if that could make a decent film.
It did.
When you're working with an unparalleled music icon, that's a plus. A quarter-century later, we see Michael singing "Bad," "Billie Jean," "Wanna Be Starting Something" and other hits, moving just as fluidly as in his heyday.
The music conjures back memories and breaks one's heart. The elaborate sets, 3-D graphics and dancers are also a sight to behold on the big screen.
It is perhaps the portrait of Michael Jackson himself that really makes This Is It worth seeing, however. A perfectionist with a sense of humor, deeply troubled but deeply caring, he was a man who his fans know was not easily put in a box.
The best, and most undeniable thing you can say about Jackson was that he was an artiste. This is obviously the best possible spin on his final days, but nevertheless an honest one. For two hours, it's all about Michael the musician.
No Dr. Conrad Murray, no paternity tests, no drugs, no legal problems.
It's a beautiful thing.
If nothing else, it's a great chance to pay tribute and gaze in amazement one last time at a singer, dancer, icon and entertainer who influenced so many.
This Is It is running only two weeks, though that may be extended depending on how it's received - in 99 countries as of today and 110 by this weekend.
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36 Comments
October 28th, 2009 10:02 AM
Please don't pay your hard earned money to see this crap! He may have been great in the 80's but I remember the 90's very well and I have zero sympathy for the pervert - glad he's dead.
October 28th, 2009 10:06 AM
Yeah, MJ was a freakin' hero, so long as he didn't owe you money or steal your music.
October 28th, 2009 10:18 AM
are you kidding me hellion?! i agree that the film may be overkill but that was harsh ... let the man rest in peace
October 28th, 2009 10:26 AM
No, I am not kidding you (and can people stop saying that so much).
I agree that I was a bit harsh but his musical genius does not make up for the lives that he ruined for his own selfish cravings.
Hitler was a painter.
October 28th, 2009 10:57 AM
hmm..i havnt seen the film but if your talkin abt the child abuse cases..he was proven innocent
October 28th, 2009 11:37 AM
OJ Simpson was proven innocent as well. Riddle me this Batman: Why did wacko Jacko pay off so many kids if he was innocent?
October 28th, 2009 12:10 PM
Protest this MOVIE.... Why help those people who quickly purchased the footage to make millions. Actually with all the clips out we could put together our own movie. No one is helping our 401K so why help these already rich people make money on MJ's Death. RIP MJ we love you and they won't make a dime. I will check the box office receipts on Monday to see is you guys listened. Pass this message on and MJ's kids will thank you later. I think they paid 5 mil. for the footage and think it will return 300 million+
October 28th, 2009 12:54 PM
I strongly hope someone disrespects you whn you do die..the man has passed so regardless of your opionin abt him allow him to rest in peace without baggering him..this goes to anyone who has passed..HELLION is probly missing a father figure or most likey not very highly educated..you have to excuse some peoples nonsense bc honestly they knw that is the only way to get a rise or connection thru others...not to be rude but are you Hispanic Hellion?... sure you are doll.. good luck in life.. P.S...im sure plently will have alot to say whn u hit the dirt! lol... wish i was around cause i would! hoorrray the fool is dead! lol!
October 28th, 2009 2:41 PM
You are a disgrace. Does it make you feel good to speak such trash about someone who has passed on and whom you obviously know nothing about. Get your facts straight before posting such garbage. He opened up hit heart and home to people who took advantage of that. The only life that was ruined was his own. He was a beautiful person who gave abundantly never asking for anything in return. Unfortunately people like you whose ignorance of believing the tabloids and media could not open up your eyes to see the kind heartedness of this man. The world just wasn't ready for such a gift. Shame on us
October 28th, 2009 11:00 PM
Well said Catalena! you are right.