Michael Jackson and his joyous music live on in the biopic Michael. The film takes audiences on a moonwalk back to a time when life felt less curated and more spontaneous. If you never had the chance to see Michael Jackson perform live, this movie may be the closest thing to experiencing the magic for yourself.
Synopsis: MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
Jaafar Jackson’s resemblance to his uncle is uncanny. Combined with his astonishingly precise recreation of Michael’s voice, movements, and signature dance style, there are moments when you genuinely feel as though you are watching Michael Jackson himself come alive on screen. He is that good.
“Do You Remember the Time?” Yes, I do. Vividly.
It was June 1988, and I was invited to see Michael Jackson perform at Wembley Stadium in London. At the time, I was working as a banker, and a colleague unexpectedly asked if I’d like to join a small group attending the concert. It was all very last minute, so I went straight from work wearing a navy-blue coat dress with gold buttons, pantyhose, and pumps. No time to change.
I took the Tube to Wembley with no idea what awaited me. A group of about five of us were escorted into a VIP tent for dinner. I kept glancing toward the entrance, half expecting Michael Jackson to walk in at any moment. Rumors swirled that Princess Diana and Prince Charles were also attending. I could hardly believe my luck, but I didn’t see them.
After dinner, we were taken to our box seats. Then came the explosion of lights, fireworks, smoke, and music that revealed the man himself standing center stage: Michael Jackson.
I was beside myself.
I don’t think I sat down once during the entire concert. I was 27 years old on that warm summer evening in 1988, completely swept up in the excitement and spectacle of it all.
The film Michael ends with a full musical reenactment of that Wembley concert. When I saw the aerial shot of the stadium during the preview screening, I nearly burst out of my seat. I had been there.
Watching Michael stirred up so many memories and emotions. It brought back my youth and the lightness of that era — before cell phones, social media, and the internet consumed everyday life.
Nearly forty years later, I felt that same electric rush of excitement as the movie began. Seeing it in IMAX made me feel as though I were back there again.
For younger generations who may only vaguely know Thriller or Michael Jackson’s impact on music and pop culture, Michael serves as both an introduction and a reminder of why he became a global phenomenon.
Michael Now Playing
Rated PG-13
Runtime 2 hours 10 minutes
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