A biopic of the pop king rises to record-shattering levels as it dives deeper into Michael Jackson’s early life and independent success.
Michael is rated a staggering 97% likability by Google users and a 7.7/10 by IMDb. The movie had so far grossed an astonishing $600 million, putting it right behind Bohemian Rhapsody for the highest-grossing biopics. The movie is rated PG-13 and is directed by Antoine Fuqua. Fuqua has directed multiple movies in the past, including The Magnificent 7 and the smash hit trilogy The Equalizer.
The film begins in the busy industrial city of Gary, Indiana. Working as a steelworker, Joe Jackson, played by Coleman Domingo, creates the legendary Jackson 5 with his children. The movie dips into a less talked about moment in history, how Michael Jackson shifted to his solo career while maintaining a relationship with his kin.
Michael Jackson is played by Jaafar Jackson, son of Jermaine Jackson and nephew of Michael. This is Jaafar’s first role in a movie, however, he has previously been in the arts indusrty with a multitude of released songs, such as Got Me Singing.
Accompanying Jaafar and Coleman are Miles Teller and KeiLyn Durrel Jones. Teller plays John Branca, the attorney for Michael, and is Chairman of The Michael Jackson Company. Jones plays Bill Bray, bodyguard, advisor, and friend to Jackson.
The film captures how the Jackson family rose from working class to global fame. The movie portrays and characterizes Joe Jackson as a controlling and obsessive father when it comes to the Jackson 5’s newfound fame. Although Michael sees how his controlling father is limiting his possible fame, he still values family above all. Michael must find a way to grow his platform while maintaining a strong relationship with his family. Through this navigation, we get a glimpse of how Michael created his legendary 3 hit albums while still attempting to have a presence in the Jackson 5 to keep his family happy.
After watching this movie, I can say that Antoine Fuqua and his team perfectly executed the storytelling of Michael Jackson’s early life. However, at the end of the movie, it seemed rushed as it only took half an hour to get through Jackson’s legendary trilogy album. Although it can be argued that the movie skimmed a pivotal moment in music history, it is still well worth watching.
Go see the thriller Michael, as you’re unable to beat it!
