Michael Jackson Biopic Faces Scathing Review for Lack of Depth
Antoine Fuqua's highly anticipated biopic, Michael, has been met with harsh criticism for its superficial portrayal of the legendary pop icon. The film, which spans Jackson's life from his early days with the Jackson Five to his 1988 Wembley Stadium concert, is described as a bland and sanitised account that glosses over the darker aspects of his story.
A Clichéd and Frustratingly Shallow Narrative
Rammed with every music-movie trope imaginable, Michael feels like a 127-minute montage of predictable scenes. From producers' astonishment in recording studios to tour bus moments and chart-topping successes, the film relies heavily on tired clichés. It notably avoids the elephant in the room—the controversies that defined Jackson's later years—leaving viewers with a frustratingly shallow experience.
The movie concludes with a baffling surtitle: The story continues, hinting at a potential sequel. Producer Graham King and the Jackson family estate are reportedly considering Michael 2, but if it proceeds, a radically different filmmaking approach will be necessary to tackle the more complex, darker chapters of Jackson's life.
Performances and Character Portrayals
Jaafar Jackson, Michael's 29-year-old nephew, takes on the lead role, showcasing impressive dancing and singing skills that capture the superstar's onstage charisma. However, offstage, his portrayal is criticised as endlessly smiley and bland, failing to explore the depth of Jackson's personality. The film does not scrutinise his diffident mannerisms or connect them to his early passion or later troubles.
Colman Domingo delivers a fierce performance as the villainous Joe Jackson, the only character allowed to exhibit real intensity. In contrast, supporting roles, including Nia Long as Katherine Jackson and others as Jackson's siblings, are largely mute and underdeveloped. Notable cameos, such as Mike Myers as CBS president Walter Yetnikoff, add brief amusement but do little to elevate the film's overall impact.
Avoiding Controversy and Missing Authenticity
Michael is accused of being a corporate hagiography that sidesteps Jackson's abuse as a child and the allegations that marred his later years. By ending before these events, the film feels inert and safe, akin to cruise-ship entertainment. This avoidance may stem from producer involvement, such as lawyer John Branca's credited role, which could explain the film's cautious tone.
Despite some engaging moments, like the making of the Thriller video, the biopic lacks the energy and authenticity needed to do justice to Jackson's legacy. Released on 22 April in Australia and 24 April in the UK and US, Michael leaves audiences questioning whether a more honest and daring portrayal will ever emerge.
