From The Jackson 5 to “Bad” in 1987, “Michael” chronicles the life of Michael Jackson as he navigates early stardom and searches for his identity within his craft. Despite an obvious narrative push, the film is vibrant and energetic, a perfect tribute to the King of Pop that is immediately immersive. 

For those unfamiliar with the King of Pop, the film offers a great introduction into his life as he worked to find himself in his music away from the “Jackson” brand. The story centers primarily on his relationship with his father, Joseph Jackson, and his control over his son’s career.

According to reports by the creative team, they had originally planned to cover Michael Jackson’s entire life, ending the film around the time of his death in 2009. However, heavy pushback from the Michael Jackson Estate forced them to remove the latter half of the film, resulting in the conclusion at the 1988 era.

Even so, there are still traces of the original direction in the film. The inclusion of “Neverland” a primary example. 

“Neverland” appears multiple times throughout the film through the inclusion of a children’s book about the story of Peter Pan. Along with other inclusions, such as Michael Jackson’s vitiligo, the “Neverland” narrative never receives a conclusion due to the decision to shift the narrative. 

In making Joseph Jackson the primary antagonist of the film, many other aspects of the King of Pop’s upbringing get sidelined or ignored. Notably, being the lack of inclusion of his social struggles – especially in school – despite a line in the film where he admits school is a struggle.

It is clear from watching the film that Michael Jackson seemed to suffer greatly from feeling alone and isolated, along with not being permitted to grow up as a normal child.

However, what the film may miss in terms of plot, it more than makes up for in spectacle. “Michael” is a visual and sonic experience that offers complete immersion from the moment the opening credits begin. 

An energetic tune begins playing as the credits roll before cutting to an image of Michael Jackson, portrayed by nephew Jaafar Jackson, sidling up to the microphone to begin a song. 

From choreography identical to the original performed by the late King of Pop to Jaafar Jackson’s dedication to preserving his uncle’s memory. Jaafar Jackson is able to capture the essence of his uncle in a way that is nearly indescribable. From the way he pitches his voice to the moves he perfected for the stage performances, he truly became Michael Jackson in the making of the film. 

Portraying Joseph Jackson is Colman Domingo from “Euphoria” and “Fear the Walking Dead.” His performance brings an intensity that embodies the harshness of the strict father’s influence on his children, particularly Michael Jackson.

Ultimately, “Michael” is a polished and emotionally charged love letter to its namesake that leaves fans wanting more. While it certainly leaves out parts of Michael Jackson’s life, the film is undoubtedly a celebration of the artist’s rise to superstardom and an absolutely worthwhile watch. 

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by John Branca and members of the Jackson family, the film has already grossed almost $50 million on opening day and is projected to near $100 million by the end of opening weekend.