A new Michael Jackson biopic titled 'Michael' has arrived in cinemas, telling the story of the King of Pop's early career while carefully avoiding any reference to the child sex abuse allegations that plagued his later life. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by Graham King, the same producer behind the Queen biopic 'Bohemian Rhapsody,' the film spans Jackson's childhood in Gary, Indiana, and culminates with his performance during the Bad World Tour in London.
Production and Cast
The film features Jaafar Jackson, the 29-year-old nephew of Michael Jackson, in the lead role. Despite having no previous acting experience, Jaafar delivers a strong performance, capturing the essence of the iconic singer. He told Jimmy Fallon that he was 'thrown right in the deep end' but was aided by his uncle's real-life choreographers, describing the experience as 'surreal and spiritual.'
Distributors Lionsgate are aiming for global revenues of $700 million from a production budget of $200 million, hoping to rival the $910 million earned by 'Bohemian Rhapsody' in 2018, which holds the record for a musical biopic.
Family Involvement and Controversy
All surviving Jackson siblings are credited as executive producers, giving them the right to review the film before its global release. This involvement has led to accusations that the film sugar-coats Jackson's image. His daughter Paris, who had no role in the project, has been one of the most vocal critics, stating on Instagram that the film 'panders to a very specific section of my dad's fandom' and contains 'full-blown lies.'
A third of the original film exploring the allegations had to be cut and re-shot after lawyers for the Jackson estate realized a clause in a settlement with accuser Jordan Chandler barred any mention of him in a film, as reported by Variety.
Ongoing Legal Issues
Although Jackson was never convicted in criminal or civil court, several alleged victims have filed lawsuits after his death, some of which remain active. The film was originally scheduled for release in April 2025 but was delayed by a year. Documentaries such as 'Living with Michael Jackson' (2003) and 'Leaving Neverland' (2019) have previously focused on his habit of inviting children to spend nights with him.
Critical Perspective
Mark Anthony Neal, professor of African and African American Studies at Duke University, expressed hope that the film would tell 'the most human story about Michael Jackson possible,' but acknowledged that Hollywood often avoids dealing with celebrities' controversial aspects in such productions.
The film is expected to further boost the Jackson family franchise, following the success of 'MJ: The Musical' on Broadway since 2022 and the Cirque du Soleil production 'Michael Jackson ONE' in Las Vegas since 2013.
