The highly anticipated film Michael was released in theaters last Friday. The film is a biopic centered on one of the biggest artists ever to grace the stage: Michael Jackson. The movie had made a lot of noise prior to its release due to the fact that the protagonist was played by Michael Jackson’s nephew, Jaafar Jackson, creating a massive wave of expectation. The film illustrates Jackson’s highs and lows within his personal life and his career.

Playing the role of Michael Jackson isn’t easy, as the pop star had unique characteristics, one of them being his voice.  Jaafar Jackson perfectly mimics his uncle’s sound; it is safe to say that it leaves the audience impressed. Mannerisms were also big when it came to Jackson, scenes that set an anxious mood. Jaafar shrank, making himself smaller, just like his uncle. 

The director of the film, Antoine Fuqua, set the film based on dates and events from Michael Jackson’s life. The timeline is clear from the beginning to the end. It perfectly captures Jackson from childhood, with his contributions to The Jackson 5, to adulthood, where he becomes the solo star he is remembered for. Although the story is clear, the pacing of the movie seemed fast and rushed, which was not needed in a film like this.

There were many powerful scenes that made one recognize that event in Jackson’s life as if we were once there. One powerful moment is when young Michael sings “Who’s Loving You.” This makes the scene emotional as it’s one of his most iconic performances as a child. Another chilling scene is the display of the Pepsi ad incident, a major turning point in Michael Jackson’s life. The legendary Thriller music video was recreated as well, which was insanely accurate from the makeup, to the costumes, and choreography.

The visuals were the best part of the film. At times, it seemed as if it was Michael Jackson himself on the big screen, the voice, his movements, the dances, even his thin structure. The movie made sure to shine a legacy that will never be erased. It reminded us that he was a star like no other. 

However, the film focuses on the highlights of Michael Jackson’s early career rather than who Michael Jackson truly was as a person. It is notable to many that three of his siblings were absent throughout the movie. One of them is Janet Jackson. It is known that Michael and Janet were very close siblings; with this, it is hard to see who Michael was as a brother. Throughout the film, there is hardly any relationship between his siblings, despite not only sharing a career but also life with them. The film is more seen as a tribute than personal, which is ironic for the fact that the film is titled solely by his first name.  The film concludes in 1988, when Jackson was at the height of his career and before the controversial allegations of sexual misconduct against him were raised.

Overall, the movie is worth watching. Impressive performances were delivered, as well as iconic moments. The strong visuals make the film entertaining from start to finish. It is enjoyable and a reflection of the past.