Michael: review of the anticipated biopic

When it comes to music biopics, loyal fans of the subject can be led to one of two reactions, either cheesing with enthralled admiration or wading in a pool of critical ambivalence. Hollywood has been running through this brand of releases like Fleetwood Mac goes through band members. Trying to capture an icon’s career and life in a two-plus hour medium bares high hills for expectations to climb. Director Antoine Fuqua (Training Day), veers into new and timely territory. If you hate reading credits or aren’t addicted to playing IMBD detective, you could watch this and be clueless it’s the same craftsman who helmed The Equalizer trilogy and a grip of crime-thrillers. 

The momentous life of Michael Jackson transcends to endearing comfort viewing, preying on nostalgia receptors. And feeling good is ok. Enjoyment from the familiar beloved doesn’t equate to quality execution though. When something works well, then works again, the gas is eased up on. Indifference is a byproduct of comfort, and from that ease, following productions may neglect some details. Staking legitimacy, the film casts actual nephew to the legend, Jaafar Jackson, carrying the weight as the adult singer, while the fresh Juliano Krue Valdi embodies the younger. Chieftains of the Jackson clan, Katherine and Joseph, are played by Nia Long and Oscar-nominated Colman Domingo (Sing Sing). 

 Reassuring nostalgia in place of thoughtful writing

The opening shot of a CGI-warped Gary, Indiana doesn’t pour much confidence for the base of visuals to come. As a body of work, Michael shows less and tells more. Not presenting much that theatregoers won’t already know, it’s confident playing the familiar notes loudly and often. Patriarch Joe flies off the handle from the rip. His notorious temperament isn’t danced around, but following an insecure exposition dump, the topic is force-fed, disallowing any menace or fear to fester, understating the impact of his actions. 

Blessed with a remarkable gift, Michael finds fulfillment and direction as he and his brothers find musical success as The Jackson 5. The realm of expression and creativity behold what are primary themes in the story; purpose, self-confidence, growth, and understanding. As his orbit expands so does his independent spirit, posing conflict. Through his impressive knowledge and passion for animals, the filmmaking illustrates someone struggling to find their footing in interpersonal relationships, whether family or professional.

 Meticulous costume design

Michael’s costume design was justly allocated attention, his trademark attire rendered faithfully. Tasteful and precise, add a matching set design, and the grounded sensation keeps the saga tangible throughout the decades. The captain crunch jackets appear in picture’s the second half. Woon walking into the 80’s, the soon-to-be King of Pop proclaims his desire to become biggest star the world has ever known. The apex surmounts as Michael strives for artistic and personal independence from his domineering father. It’s not merely escaping the maltreatment and control but establishing his own identity within himself. Papa Joe is a formidable antagonist, but tension never builds in a manner that feels realistically unsettling. 

Concise is a kind word to describe the dialogue. It’s no mystery the focus is showcasing singing and performances; the writing should still be engaging and natural. Predictable lines hot from the cookie-cutter. This issue sprouts so easily within the genre, consider it a contributing case for the underperformance of recent counterpart films. No biographical account will encompass one’s whole existence. Take those lofty ideals of any art-house attributes coloring this film and leave them under your David Lynch boxset. Envelopes won’t be getting pushed, but Michael knows it’s calling and delivers satisfaction for devotees and admirers of the late luminary.