I had three totally different reactions from people when I told them I was seeing Michael Jackson’s ‘This Is It’ today. My 24-year-old sister asked me what the big deal was, my best friend said he had no idea a Michael Jackson movie existed and that it was probably exploitation, and a co-worker just laughed and asked what I thought of MJ being a pedophile. While all three responses made me sad, I understood where they were all coming from. After all, Michael Jackson is easily one of the most controversial and fascinating figures of the last century. ‘This Is It’ is a glowing tribute and monument to this amazing artist and I encourage everyone to see it. Let me acknowledge my best friends reaction first – What is ‘This Is It’?
‘This Is It’ was the title of a show Michael Jackson intended to premiere this past June in England. This movie is made up of documentary footage of the extensive rehearsals and preparation for it. Truthfully, calling it a show is an offensive understatement. What Jackson had crafted and planned was something else entirely. It was an experience – a fusion of music, performance, cinema, and stage that was both awe-inspiring and ambitious. Even watching Jackson rehearse at half-speed with no visual effects and back-up dancers in baseball hats and t-shirts is jaw-dropping and moving. The final product would have been unreal.
So what is the big deal about Michael Jackson?
My sister is only 24. The vast majority of what she has heard about MJ is the controversy. The plastic surgeries, sexual misconduct allegations, and unorthodox parenting. He was more of a joke than an artist. She never saw ‘Thriller’ on MTV or listened to ‘Dangerous’. She doesn’t understand that the ‘big deal’ is that MJ was a musical pioneer that not only harnessed incredible talent, but had one of the most gentle and understanding dispositions of any ‘rock star’ you’d see today. Watching this movie I was amazed at how hands-on MJ was during the entire creation process. He never secluded himself in a posh trailer or stormed off in a huff. He was there every step of the way – from the casting of back-up dancers to costume fittings to sound checks. When he disagreed with a direction he quietly and respectfully asserted himself in an effort to promote understanding as opposed to conflict. It is inspiring to watch.
What do you think about all of the pedophile rumors and controversy?
In short, I don’t care. This movie isn’t about that, it is about performance. The first images that come on the screen are the words: “For the fans…” That is who this movie was made for. If you walk into the theater with your mind made up as to what kind of person MJ was, there is an good chance you are wasting your time. This entire movie is a love letter to anyone who has appreciated Michael Jackson’s music at some point in their lives. At 50, MJ was far from over the hill. In fact, I would venture to say he was at the top of his game. He has no problem keeping up and even out-dancing performers half his age. His intention in creating this show was to give his fans everything they wanted to see, and on that count he delivers. His passion for music is undeniable.
‘This Is It’ is not a purposely sad movie. MJ’s untimely death is never even mentioned. However, watching him lovingly craft every minute detail of this extraordinary experience – you can’t help but feel remorse for the loss of such a unique and devoted talent. As a theater manager, I see good or even great movies die every week due to poor advertising or just plain ignorance. Please don’t let this be one of them.
