Once a huge fan of Michael Jackson—Thriller was the first “adult” album I ever bought with my allowance—my fandom cooled as allegations of child molestation swirled around him. Through it all, his most devoted fans defended him with fervor. Given the recent success of music bio-pics Bohemian Rhapsody, Elvis, and A Complete Uknown it no surprise that the “King of Pop” would get that treatment too.
Michael charts his early days as a member of the Jackson 5 to his success as a solo artist whose record Thriller became the best-selling album of all time. The film opens in 1966, with the family in the firm grip of patriarch Joe Jackson (Colman Domingo) determined to transform his sons—Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael—into the Jackson Five. Joe regularly beats Michael when he’s anything less than perfect. After impressing at various gigs, they’re quickly signed to Motown. Their album tops the charts. As their fame grows, Joe becomes increasingly power hungry, even as it’s clear that Michael (played as a young boy by Juliano Valdi) is the breakout star.
Rather than providing real insight into Michael’s (played as an adult by Michael’s real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson) mindset amidst such astonishing success, John Logan’s screenplay hits all the expected highlights are recreated: the production of the “Thriller” and “Beat It” videos, the Motown 25 television special where he debuted the moonwalk, the filming of the Pepsi commercial where his hair caught fire, and the 1984 “Victory Tour” with his brothers. Given Antoine Fuqua’s experience directing music videos, it’s no surprise that these scenes are a highlight.
Endorsed by Michael Jackson’s estate, it no surprise that Michael is sanitized, eager to maintain the “King of Pop” mythos. The other characters in the film, from his mom Katherine (Nia Long) to his producer Quincy Jones (Kendrick Sampson) are constantly Michael, how brilliant he is, making the scenes without music rather boring. Michael ends in 1988, during the Bad tour, conveniently avoiding the assertions that would sully his reputation. The original ending made mention of the 1993 allegations but had to be reshot for legal reasons. Michael has made over one billion dollars at the box office, making a second film probable. If that happens, it will be interesting to see how Michael’s legal troubles are portrayed. I wonder if Janet Jackson, who wanted nothing to do with Micheal, will get a mention. Her absence leaves a hole in the narrative.
Despite obvious flaws, the cast of Michael is solid. Both Juliano Valdi and Jaafar Jackson capture the childlike essence of Micharl Jackson, excelling in concert scenes. Colman Domingo and Nia Long are good as Joe and Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller is convincing as Michael’s mid-career manager, John Branca. Little more than a paint-by-the numbers biopic, standout is the music that made Michael Jackson famous.
Michael arrives on 4K with an encoded 2160 transfer, in the 1.85:1 aspect ratio. Outfitted with Dolby Vision/HDR 10, The results are stunning from top to bottom. The image offers superb detail throughout, and a seemingly endless amount of depth. Color reproduction is well balanced, offering a palette that combines intimate settings with large, bold concert venues. Performances are well lit. and Michael’s Thriller era wardrobe shines, particularly the iconic, red “Beat It” jacket. Black levels are deep, and inky throughout. The elaborate production design is a highlight, offering real pop. There are no scratches, dirt. or other anomalies present.
As expected, the Dolby Atmos track offers impressive fidelity throughout. excellent dynamic range puts you right in the middle of the concert scenes. The surround sound presentation flexes its muscle, offering full involvement throughout the soundfield. Bass is deep and full when the proceedings require it. Dialogue is clean, clear, and concise throughout.
English SDH, French, and Spanish subtitles are included.
The following extras are available:
- Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough: The Making of Michael (HD, 59:49) Extensive behind the scenes footage and cast and crew interviews.
- Home is Where His Heart Is: Behind the Gates of Hayvenhurst (HD, 5:35) A brief tour of the Jackson mansion in Encino.
- In the Mirror: Becoming Michael & Joe Time Lapses (HD, 3:39) Offers a look at the extensive makeup used for the Michael and Joe characters.
- First Look (HD, 2:09) A very brief EPK.
- Becoming Michael (HD; 1:52) Members of the cast and crew discuss Jaafar Jackson’s performance.
- Before the Big Screen (HD, 1:49) A very brief look at the impact of the Jacksons.
- On the Set of Michael (HD, 2:29) Another look behind the scenes of Michael featuring Prince Jackson, who is an executive producer of the film.
- Trailers (HD, 4:36)
