Michael - Movie Review

Overview

This video is a movie review of Michael (directed by Antoine Fuqua), focusing on how the film portrays Michael Jackson’s rise to fame and the pressures of his upbringing under domineering father Joe Jackson.

The reviewer opens by saying they’re highly biased—in a good way—because Michael Jackson is their favorite artist. They describe him as a musical genius and possibly the best live entertainer ever.

They also share a personal connection: as a Jehovah’s Witness, leaving the religion in their late teens/early 20s inspired them to learn Jackson’s dance routines. They practiced “Billie Jean” obsessively by mirroring Michael’s videos.

What Stands Out Most (Performances + Big Moments)

Jaafar Jackson as Michael

The reviewer’s biggest highlight is Jaafar Jackson as Michael. They claim it’s more than imitation—he feels like “Michael has been reincarnated on the screen.” The performance is praised for:

• Near-perfect dance moves
• An uncanny speaking voice
• An electrifying, mesmerizing presence—called one of the best performances in any musical biopic

“Motown 25” “Billie Jean” debut and moonwalk

A particularly praised sequence is Michael’s “Motown 25” performance, including the “Billie Jean” debut and moonwalk moment.

The reviewer references how Michael famously cried afterward because he thought he performed it “wrong,” framing this as evidence of his perfectionism. They also note that Jaafar chooses the early “baby Billie Jean” version of the routine rather than the later perfected stadium style—something they respect as a deliberate, faithful choice.

Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson

Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson also receives strong credit. The reviewer describes him as terrifying and domineering.

In a packed fan-theater screening, a nearby audience member reportedly reacted to Joe’s dialogue with constant dismissive sounds (“Mhm… No”). The reviewer expected that might be annoying—but says the audience’s vocal energy instead enhanced the viewing experience.

Audience Energy as Part of the Experience

The reviewer compares two types of screenings:

• A large, excited crowd (the one they saw) that clapped and cheered along with performances—likened to a sports event
• A quiet press/empty screening, which they believe would make the film less fun

They argue the movie really shines in its music and performance spectacle, and that it may even grow better as Michael’s career progresses.

Main Criticism: Sanitized and Too Surface-Level

Despite loving the visuals and soundtrack, the reviewer says the film has major emotional and creative-process gaps, especially:

• Almost no interest in showing Michael’s creative process—how he actually crafted songs
• Too few glimpses into his creative headspace

They cite an example of what they wanted more of: a scene where Michael wakes up at night with an idea, starts beatboxing, and begins writing notes—moments that convey his inner world but appear too rarely.

Overall, they feel the film plays like a “greatest hits album turned into a movie” rather than a deeper biopic that emotionally “stirs” you as a human being.

They also say the story feels sanitized and safe—suggesting it avoids darker or more complex territory due to its family-friendly framing.

Structure / Ending Issues + Reshoots Controversy

The reviewer mentions reports of a major reshoot (22 days) with $10–15 million in added cost, connected to legal concerns about addressing certain allegations (requiring removal of some material).

They believe this impacts the ending:

• The third act feels incomplete, ending with a “to be continued” vibe
• They offer a nuanced angle: if a sequel exists, the criticism might matter less—like waiting for the next chapter
• They feel the ending would have been stronger originally, but what remains plays more like a satisfying concert-style wrap-up than a fully satisfying emotional conclusion

Missed Opportunity: Jehovah’s Witness Complexity

The reviewer says they wanted more specific focus on how being a Jehovah’s Witness shaped Michael’s internal conflicts—particularly moments like:

• Whether to release the “Thriller” video
• His reluctance to be seen as connected to occult themes

They reference a title card about distancing himself from the occult due to fear of excommunication.

Overall Takeaway

The reviewer concludes:

• Michael fans will likely enjoy the film for its performance spectacle and music
• Non-fans might either discover new songs—or decide it’s not for them
• The movie is framed as entertaining and visually strong, but not as deep or daring as it could have been

Notable Personalities Mentioned

• Jaafar Jackson (Michael Jackson)
• Antoine Fuqua (director)
• John Logan (writer)
• Colman Domingo (Joe Jackson)
• Joe Jackson (Michael’s father; portrayed in the film)