By Giulia Gutzwiller, Digital Communications Manager, Education and Enrichment Coordinator

The new Michael Jackson biopic, eponymously titled “Michael,” is anything but “Bad” with its stellar soundtrack and captivating visuals. 

The story follows Jackson’s journey to fame, starting in his childhood as a member of The Jackson 5 in the 1970s and continuing as he transitions into a successful solo artist in the 1980s. 

Throughout the film, Jackson overcomes obstacles that stand between him and superstardom. The film focuses on his strained relationship with his father and manager, Joe Jackson, who is portrayed as controlling and abusive. Jackson learns to pave the way for his own musical career and eventually severs ties with his father. 

Other than its inspiring message, the most memorable aspect of the film is the iconic soundtrack. Jackson is widely regarded as the best pop star of all time, so this comes as no surprise. From “I Want You Back” to “Billie Jean” to “Bad,” the film includes hits spanning across Jackson’s entire discography. 

There are various montage sequences throughout the film that document Jackson’s unique creative process and highlight his rise to fame. One notable montage is the production of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” which includes calm moments in the recording studio as well as large crowds at concert venues. These scenes effectively convey how Jackson’s first solo album “Off the Wall” marked a turning point in his career.

Toward the end of the film, stunning concert visuals accompany many of Jackson’s greatest hits, such as “Human Nature” and “Workin’ Day and Night.” Scenes from the 1984 Victory Tour include close-up shots of Jackson’s dance moves and glimpses of the crowd that make the audience feel like they traveled back in time to watch the show live. 

Additionally, “Michael” stars Jackson’s nephew Jaafar Jackson in his acting debut. His performance adds to the film’s visuals, as he is almost indistinguishable from his uncle. One could easily mistake the film’s concert scenes for clips of the original performances because their stage presence and mannerisms are identical. 

“Michael” received a score of 25% on Rotten Tomatoes immediately following its release, with many critics arguing the story was too predictable. Critics also mentioned how the film fails to tell a compelling story and ultimately plays it safe. 

Another one of the film’s more noticeable flaws is Jackson’s unrealistic characterization. He is portrayed as a perfect protagonist, and the film does not address how any allegations or controversies affected his image, since the story ends amid Jackson’s “Bad” tour in 1988. 

Making a film about the king of pop means that it has to appeal to all audiences. The story’s predictability might upset dedicated long-time fans, but putting his flaws on full display would have the same effect. It is impossible to live up to the audience’s demanding expectations, so these creative decisions seem very purposeful. 

The ending of the film hints at a sequel that will cover the later years of Jackson’s career, which will hopefully tackle the criticism and enhance the already incredible aspects of the story.