by Henry Pham

We kept getting lots of musical biopic films based on famous figures (such as A Complete Unknown, Bohemian Rhapsody, and Deliver Me From Nowhere. Actor and singer Jaafar Jackson, in his acting debut, stars as singer Michael Jackson in the film. In case you’re asking, Jaafar is Michael Jackson’s nephew. Michael is a musical biographical drama film that focuses on the life of American pop superstar Michael Jackson, tracing his journey from his extraordinary early days in the Jackson 5 to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fuels a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world.

Jaafar Jackson leads the cast as Michael Jackson. Oscar nominee Colman Domingo (Rustin, Sing Sing) delivers a powerful performance as Joe Jackson, portraying him as a driven and abusive father obsessed with fame, money, and success, rather than his sons’ well-being. Nia Long (Boyz n the Hood) plays Katherine, a supportive and caring mother to Michael. The roles of Michael’s brothers are portrayed by Jamal R. Henderson and Jayden Harville (Jermaine), Tre Horton and Jaylen Lyndon Hunter (Marlon), Rhyan Hill and Judah Edwards (Tito), and Joseph David-Jones and Nathaniel Logan McIntyre (Jackie).

Additional cast includes Miles Teller (Whiplash) as manager and lawyer John Branca, KeiLyn Durrel Jones as bodyguard Bill Bray, Mike Myers (Shrek films, Austin Powers films) as Walter Yetnikoff, Jessica Sula (E4’s Skins) as La Toya Jackson, Kendrick Sampson (HBO’s Insecure) as Quincy Jones, and Lauren Farrier (Spider-Man: Homecoming) as music executive Suzanne de Passe.

Antoine Fuqua, director of Training Day and The Equalizer films, directs the film, with Oscar-nominated writer John Logan (Gladiator, Hugo) providing the script. The musical performances are immersive, creating the atmosphere of a live Michael Jackson concert. While the film resembles a documentary, it is primarily a concert film, highlighted by its musical numbers and choreography. The cast delivers strong performances, with Jaafar Jackson standing out as the central figure. The costume designs and the makeup are fabulous and authentic, while the third act is particularly emotional.

However, the film does not address controversies surrounding Michael Jackson; instead, it focuses on his family life and music career from the 1960s to the late 1980s. This choice may be due to plans for a sequel or a decision to avoid these topics. Some scenes, especially those featuring Colman Domingo, are wild and intense, and the plot could benefit from further development.

I heard this film has received a ton of negative reviews from critics, but I find this piece very fascinating, and I know this film may end up making tons of money at the box-office. It feels like a roller coaster ride, and it’s not your typical musical blockbuster but that intense buildup keeps you on the edge of your seat, questioning what happens next. Despite the tough plot line, Jaafar Jackson’s acting embodies the spirit of Michael Jackson in Michael. He delivers an unforgettable experience, delivering warmth and pleasure to his own fans and fans of Michael Jackson. I think his uncle from heaven would be very proud of him. I do not mind if this gets many awards and accolades, but I’m rooting for Jaafar Jackson, Nia Long, and Colman Domingo for their potential Oscar noms. Although it may not be the perfect musical biographical movie for many people (especially movie critics), it is a must-see for Michael Jackson fans (I do recommend watching this in the full IMAX experience). The film’s length is 127 minutes.

GRADE: B-