Just right off the bat, I was extremely excited to see “Michael.”
I wouldn’t say I am a huge fan of Michael Jackson, but there are a good couple of songs that make me want to bust a move. Something I immediately took notice of was the lead actor himself. The casting decision was spot on as Michael Jackson’s own nephew, Jaafar Jackson, imitated Michael flawlessly. His appearance in this film wasn’t the first time he’s been in a Jackson-related project. Jaafar has previously participated in his family’s reality show, “Living with the Jacksons,” as well as “The Jacksons: Next Generation.” Through this, he’s been continuously recognized for having incredible vocals and dancing abilities.
Going into this premiere, I couldn’t help but think about the movie, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” that came out back in 2018. It’s the only other biographical film I’ve watched that featured such a famous and influential voice. It focused on the rise and fall of British singer Freddie Mercury. It ended with him accepting his fate and succumbing to HIV/AIDS. I figured that “Michael” would be no different and have total transparency of his sickness and eventual death. I think it’s safe to say that most people already know the devastating overdose ending of this superstar before the screening.
The whole time, I was bracing myself for something that would never come. Instead, I was forced to pay closer attention to the way in which he lived. Any sickness Michael encountered was mentioned, yet lightly glazed over when compared with other struggles within his life. Although confusing at first, I now realize how valuable and effective that choice was.
I feel like I was able to see “Michael” more for who he was as a singer, but also as a son, a brother, and a friend. I think being so focused on his death and downfall would’ve taken away from that experience.
I was carried through his childhood, then into his young adult years, where he began his individual rise to fame. While the film was humorous at times, there were some scenes that made me squirm in my seat a bit. I learned that his childhood wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows like I had been led to believe. He didn’t have a normal childhood and was forced to practice day in and day out. Even though he had his brothers and was part of the Jackson 5, it was evident that he still struggled with finding friendship as a kid. The film also did a deep dive into his vastly different relationships with his mother, Katherine Jackson, and his father, Joseph (Joe) Jackson. If I were to describe his relationship with his father in one word, I’d say it was complicated. I enjoyed watching Michael grow up and become his own individual artist, even when his father didn’t exactly approve.
When looking at the contents of “Michael” as a whole, I give it four out of five stars. The music, acting, and choreography were immaculate. However, the ending was abrupt. It felt as if there was more of a story to be told and like we were dropped off somewhere in the middle. There was also not a lot of focus on Michael’s relationships with his brothers. I’ve always wondered how they felt about him pursuing a solo career and leaving the Jackson 5.
Without a doubt, my favorite parts were when they’d recreate performances, music videos, or literally any time there was music. Some of my favorites were “ABC,” “Beat It,” “Thriller,” “I Want You Back,” and “Billie Jean.”
Jaafar excelled at the dancing portion and made it look authentic. Between the impeccable moonwalk and the flashy wardrobe, I struggled to look away. We really got to see his creation process as well as how he interacted with those around him. From kids to Los Angeles street gangs, it’s clear that Michael sought to bring unity and genuine connection. I highly recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys Michael Jackson or music in general.
–April 23, 2026–
