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New movie on Michael Jackson captures his final months

Written by Alanna Quillen, The Shorthorn senior staff

Wednesday, 04 November 2009 04:08 PM

Review

This Is It
Director: Kenny Ortega
Rated PG for some suggestive choreography and scary images.
Scores: 3 out of 5 stars

Even after death, Michael Jackson has stepped back into the spotlight for a final performance. Except this time, it’s on the big screen.

The pop star, who sold an estimated 750 million records worldwide and released 13 number-one singles, stars in This Is It. Director Kenny Ortega, who also co-created the concert featured in the movie, presents a compilation of rehearsal footage for the 50 sold-out and potentially record-breaking London concert that Jackson never lived to perform.

It’s a concert film with no audience. Thousands of seats at the Staples Center in Los Angeles remain empty as Jackson performs run-throughs of his hits like “Billie Jean,” “Smooth Criminal” and “Thriller.” Even at the age of 50, he can still hit those falsettos with such intensity as if his dramatic, 40-year career never fazed him.

In the film, Jackson shows no obvious signs that he was knocking on death’s door. He’s pumped, vibrant and ready to give his fans the ultimate performance that never came. Despite his skinny frame and gaunt features, Jackson nails his moonwalk and other struts while clad in his famous sequined pants and aviator sunglasses. During the entire movie, those classic, black penny loafers never come off.

Many poured sweat and joy into this spectacle — especially selected dancers, musicians, acrobats. Jackson served as their ringleader, directing and tweaking things. The movie also serves as a tribute to the man that stimulated the very existence of big names like Justin Timberlake, Usher and Britney Spears.

Backstage interviews and short-films shot for the tour make up too much of the movie. Many parts of the show are missing and some of the rehearsals feel rushed. Most fans might not find enough one-on-one time with Jackson, but once the screen is brought back to the full performances, smooth moves and powerful vocals of the pop legend, the film regains its focus.

Sadly, the film represents everything that could have been and never will be, while capturing Jackson’s final months. These moments almost leaden the heart, knowing what he had planned for the fans were interrupted by his death.

Scandals around Jackson are easily forgotten once you see his final curtain call and passionate gift to his fans. This film helps you let go of the fiasco years and remember him for who he truly was – the King of Pop.
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 28 January 2010 01:42 PM )

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