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With the speculation about Michael Jackson’s death and the end of the reign of the King of Pop, "This Is It" provides closure to fans who wanted to see his last tour, but the movie also leaves the questions surrounding his death unanswered.
"This Is It" follows the rehearsals of Jackson’s farewell tour of the same name.
The documentary begins with a text stating that this film was made "For the fans" and dialogues from different members of the tour.
It follows the making and rehearsing of every aspect of the concert, from Jackson’s performances to costume and lighting checks. Jackson dances on stage and sings just as any other artist would as he rehearses for his tour.
If moviegoers see this film expecting to see a sick, mentally worn Jackson, they will be disappointed. Jackson performs almost as well as he did when he first appeared on the music scene years ago. The man seen in the film and on stage is not someone you would expect to have a drug related death.
This documentary shows Jackson the way his fans will always want to remember him and doesn’t focus on any negative aspect of the end Jackson’s life. The film shows the entertainer fans loved.
Focusing on the positive leaves much to the imagination of those seeking to find answers for his death.
The film claims to be a "concert film" but lacks one important thing: the actual concert. It throws viewers through a loop because the entire documentary seems to be leading up to what is going to be an amazing concert, but unfortunately, the concert never takes place.
Still, this documentary does more than concert films of the past have accomplished. Instead of just showing how the show is made, it shows how the people of the tour feel about Jackson.
Many concert films lack the opinions and the emotions of the other members of the production. "This Is It" focuses on Jackson while showing everyone who was a part of the tour, such as dancers, choreographers, stylists and backup musicians.
The footage is also raw. Director Kenny Ortega offers a view of Jackson that will leave many heartbroken. No matter how hard you try to enjoy the film, your mind never escapes the reality of why this concert never happened.
The theater was packed, leaving no seat unoccupied Monday night. The audience was filled with everyone from grandmothers and grandchildren to students and parents. By the end of the film, there was barely a dry eye in the theater. Members of the audience gasped and laughed in unison throughout the entire film, and there was not one moment that you would be crying or laughing alone.
Many are skeptical of the film because of their own personal feelings toward Jackson and his persona in the public eye, but as an artist it is easy to see why he was able to do what many of his colleges were not. He is shown as charming and thoughtful throughout the film, leaving no question of the power of his art.
Not being one of Jackson’s die hard fans, I still appreciate how the film captures this.
Going to the film expecting to see reasons for his death or signs of illness would be a waste of money. The film requires viewers to be in the mindset of loyal fans, and ends with Jackson standing on stage with his arms extended as a message reads: "Michael Jackson King of Pop Love Lives Forever."
Grade: A
3 comments
I Went And Saw The Movie Last Saturday:)And It Was So Good,
I Dont Know Why But Half Way Into The Movie I was Shaking I Couldint Belive This Was Micheal,So Healthy And Amazing As Usal.I Thought The Movie Was W O N D E R F U L.And I Did Cry At The End,Because To Think Hes Not Alive And How Good This Concert Would Have Been Just Breaks My Heart.
Love Ya Micheal,&& I Would Recommend To Go See This Movie For Sure.