It feels like we’ve waited a lifetime for a proper Michael Jackson biopic, and now that it’s here, I can certainly say I’ve witnessed the gold standard. ‘Michael’ is an epic portrait that chronicles the making of a King—from MJ’s humble beginnings to the very pinnacle of his career.
The Antoine Fuqua-directed film takes creative liberties as most biopics do. Still, despite its share of inaccuracies and glaring omissions, it remains a fitting celebration of a man whose contributions reshaped music and redefined pop culture forever. More importantly, the film marks the ascent of a massive talent: JAAFAR JACKSON HAS ARRIVED.
While many biopic leads fall into the trap of being caricatures, Jaafar Jackson avoids it entirely. The Jackson blood undeniably runs deep, but it’s his work in this film that will propel him to the stratosphere. It’s almost eerie how seamlessly he transforms into Michael, and the fact that he’s achieved all of that without prior acting experience is nothing short of incredible. Much like his uncle, Jaafar has all the makings of a generational talent.
From top to bottom, this might be the best-cast biopic in years. Colman Domingo strikes a nerve as the uncompromising Jackson patriarch, and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson anchors the film’s emotional core. Juliano Valdi is just as fantastic as young Michael, channeling the boy wonder’s spark and charisma with ease. Supporting players like Miles Teller and KeiLyn Durrel Jones also offer noteworthy performances.
Speaking of noteworthy, the soundtrack is well-curated with Jackson’s most iconic tracks. While I would’ve loved to hear more deep cuts, that’s just the Michael fan in me nitpicking, and that doesn’t take away from the film’s overall enjoyment factor.
Sure, ‘Michael’ barely scratches the surface, and some might even find it too sanctified for such a polarizing figure, but ultimately, it succeeds in its mission to entertain. The quintessential MJ retrospective that will enthrall both diehards and a new generation of fanatics. The biggest challenge watching this film was resisting the urge to sing along and keeping my feet still.
Watch HIStory unfold. #MichaelMovie is now playing in cinemas!
