Michael (English) Review {3.0/5} & Review Rating
Star Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Michael Movie Review Synopsis:
MICHAEL is the story of a legend's rise. The year is 1967. Joseph Jackson (Colman Domingo), a steel worker in Gary, Indiana, forms a band featuring his five sons and names it the Jackson 5. The youngest, Michael (Juliano Krue Valdi), aged 9, is the lead singer. Joseph is a strict disciplinarian who pushes the brothers to perfect their craft. He has no qualms about beating Michael with a belt when he misbehaves. Gradually, the Jackson 5 land a few gigs and soon become popular. Suzanne de Passe (Laura Harrier) of Motown attends one of their shows and signs them to the record label, giving a further boost to their career. In 1978, 20-year-old Michael (Jaafar Jackson) wants to go solo but is afraid that his father might not approve. However, Joseph allows him to do so, but only in his spare time. Michael is aware that his father is unwilling to let him take control of his life, leading to a mental crisis. What happens next forms the rest of the film.
Michael Movie Story Review:
John Logan's story is fascinating and touches upon important events in Michael Jackson's life. His screenplay is engaging. However, the film doesn't delve deeply into Michael's life and only scratches the surface. The dialogues are sharp.
Antoine Fuqua's direction is light-hearted and mainstream. He keeps the focus mainly on the music aspect. Hence, expect Michael Jackson's hit numbers to be played at regular intervals while also ensuring the narrative goes forward. What will stun the viewers is how the makers have flawlessly recreated the real-life concerts of Michael. Also watch out for the recreation of Michael Jackson's iconic number, 'Thriller'. The detailing, the correct use of sets, props and lights etc. are truly a masterstroke. Viewers are sure to search for Michael Jackson’s concert videos and 'Thriller' after exiting the theatre and marvel at the similarities. As for the personal life of the legend, the equation he shared with his father is memorable. A few scenes that are worthy are Joseph getting a fax and confronting Michael about it, Joseph allowing Michael to cut his solo album, Katherine (Nia Long) telling Joseph to let Michael live life on his own terms etc. The scene that would get the maximum applause is when CBS Records president Walter Yetnikoff (Mike Myers) threatens MTV.
On the flipside, the film doesn’t provide a full overview of Michael’s personal life or his bond with his family. His brothers seem more like extras. Viewers don’t get to learn what they did when they were not performing with Michael or whether they were jealous of, or comfortable with, his massive success. The only major hiccup shown in Michael’s life is his father’s over-controlling behaviour. Secondly, his musical journey appears too smooth. It is presented in a way that makes it seem as though he rose in his career very easily. Also, the manner in which Michael is shown drawing inspiration for his music videos and songs comes across as superficial.
Michael Movie Review Performances:
Jaafar Jackson makes a smashing debut. The way he has perfectly aced the mannerisms, body language and dance of Michael Jackson is seen to be believed. He also shines in the emotional and poignant scenes. Colman Domingo leaves a tremendous mark and provides the much-needed jolt of intensity to the drama. Nia Long lends able support and makes her presence felt in key scenes. Miles Teller (John Branca) delivers a confident performance. KeiLyn Durrel Jones (Bill Bray) is too good as Michael's bodyguard. Kendrick Sampson (Quincy Jones) does fine, but his role gets a raw deal. Larenz Tate (Berry Gordy) is memorable, especially in the scene where Michael gives him a hug. Mike Myers and Deon Cole (Don King) do well in cameos. The actors playing brothers deliver decent performances.
Michael movie music and other technical aspects:
The music is the strongest part of the enterprise, and the use of Michael Jackson's iconic songs adds an authentic touch to the proceedings. Dion Beebe's cinematography is appropriate and quite realistic in the concert scenes. Barbara Ling's production design and Marci Rodgers' costumes go a long way in recreating the bygone era. Conrad Buff IV, Tom Cross, John Ottman and Harry Yoon's editing is functional.
Michael Movie Review Conclusion:
On the whole, MICHAEL works as a glossy, engaging and emotionally effective musical biopic, elevated by Jaafar Jackson’s remarkable performance, the recreation of iconic moments and the timeless music. Though it only scratches the surface of Michael Jackson’s complex life, it still succeeds in delivering an entertaining big-screen experience. At the Indian box office, the film has generated strong advance sales and hence has the potential to spring a surprise.