Movie Review: Michael
- Faiz Faisal
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
As someone who grew up in a household where Michael Jackson was the soundtrack to my childhood, walking into this biopic felt like coming home. Michael was my first introduction to pop culture; though I was only 4 or 5 when I first grasped what music entertainment was, his presence was undeniable. I still vividly remember the terror and fascination of watching the Thriller music video for the first time. His creative vision was so intriguing it always left you wondering what he’d do next—a feeling I can only compare to how I follow Lady Gaga today.
A Movie for the Journey, Not the Drama
Admittedly, I’m a casual fan. I haven’t spent years digging into every behind-the-scenes scandal or tabloid headline. For a viewer like me, Michael is a pleasant, endearing experience. While die-hard fans might feel the film barely scratches the surface of the hardships he endured, or that it paints a slightly "too perfect" picture of his life, I was there to enjoy the journey and the music. On that front, the film absolutely delivers.
The Impossible Task of Five Decades
My biggest concern going in was the runtime. How do you cram five decades of the most decorated performer of all time into a single film? I was relieved to find that the filmmakers realized this too, choosing to split the biopic into two parts. This allows the story to breathe rather than feeling like a rushed highlight reel.
The Magic of the Performance
If you enjoyed the charm and energy of Bohemian Rhapsody, you will love the direction here. But the real star is Jaafar Jackson. Playing his own uncle is a massive undertaking, but Jaafar is transformative. At times, it truly feels like you are watching Michael himself—the movements, the voice, and that unmistakable aura are all there.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a deep-dive exposé, this might not be it. But if you want to celebrate the artistry of a man who defined modern pop, this is shaping up to be one of the best biopics in years. It’s nostalgic, beautifully shot, and respectful of the legacy. I’m walking away satisfied and eagerly waiting for Part 2.
Rate: 8/10 Stars
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