“MICHAEL JACKSON AT HIS BEST”
Starring: Michael Jackson
Directed by: Kenny Ortega
MPAA Rating: PG for some suggestive choreography and scary images.
Genre: Musical, Documentary
Release Date: October 2009
Written by John Delia
Seeing Michael Jackson on stage in This Is It, happy and in control, made me wonder what could have happened to this wonderful man. I was in total awe watching him create a final concert from his vision and the way Michael threw himself into his work. The film is a must see for Jackson fans, pop music lovers and for those who want a last endearing look at the King of Pop.
Michael Jackson’s This Is It offers Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer as he developed, created and rehearsed for his sold-out concerts that would have taken place beginning this summer in London’s O2 Arena. Chronicling the months from March through June 2009, the film is produced with the full support of the Estate of Michael Jackson and drawn from more than one hundred hours of behind-the-scenes footage, featuring Jackson rehearsing a number of his songs for the show.
This Is It features most of the best songs by Michael and the amazing choreography that goes with them. Moving across the stage defying gravity as if being held up by wires, he’s poetry in motion. I could hardly wait for the next session featuring another of his wonderful pop hits. Then came Thriller, which at the time was being filmed in 3D as part of the concert. Moving and singing while working the dancers into his vibrant routine is a sight that you would never see at a concert. Here I watched the person, the worker, the artist and the humanitarian.
You don’t have to be a lover of pop music to attend this film event and enjoy yourself. Please stay to the end of the credits, as there is a dedication and final message.
FINAL ANALYSIS: A pop musical that’s one of a kind. It’s a thriller. (5 of 5 Palm Trees)