The Michael Jackson biopic does not need to be a great film; it only needs to present the legendary musician's catalog to his fans in a cinematic format. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, 'Michael' accomplishes this goal. The film features Jaafar Jackson, the singer's real-life nephew, who delivers an uncanny portrayal of the adult Jackson, alongside Juliano Valdi, who shines as the young Michael. However, the movie fails to reveal anything new about the so-called King of Pop, opting instead for a sanitized and sympathetic look at his life.
A Soundtrack-Driven Narrative
From the Jackson 5 era to the monumental success of the 1980s, the film is packed with hits like 'I Want You Back,' 'Thriller,' and 'Billie Jean.' The music is given ample space, and fans will appreciate the extended performances. Yet, the narrative avoids delving into the molestation allegations that plagued Jackson's later years, primarily due to legal restrictions from a settlement with accuser Jordan Chandler. This reportedly led to costly reshoots and a rewritten script focusing solely on Jackson's rise, fame, and family pressures.
Performances and Direction
Jaafar Jackson captivates in scenes like 'Human Nature,' exuding star quality. Colman Domingo portrays patriarch Joe Jackson with terrifying intensity, while Nia Long appears as Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller and Mike Myers have small roles as industry figures but serve mainly as plot devices. Fuqua's direction is competent but lacks distinctive flair, and composer Lior Rosner's schmaltzy score occasionally cheapens emotional moments.
What Works and What Doesn't
The film addresses Jackson's vitiligo, insecurities about his nose, and the Pepsi commercial accident, but only in broad strokes. A CGI Bubbles the chimp feels unconvincing. The ending, which states 'his story continues,' feels abrupt and unsatisfying. Despite these flaws, the movie is critic-proof, as fans are guaranteed to flock to theaters.
Verdict
'Michael' is a musically masterful but shallow biopic. It offers great performances but oversimplifies a complex man. It is now playing in cinemas worldwide.
