The film Michael explores the life of Michael Jackson before and during his rise to solo superstardom. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, it focuses on his early struggles, the rise of The Jackson 5, and the beginning of his solo career.
While the film is energetic and engaging, it ends abruptly, leaving the audience wanting more.
A Strict and Challenging Childhood
The film opens with Jackson&rsquo;s difficult childhood under the strict and often abusive discipline of his father, Joe Jackson, who pushes his children relentlessly in pursuit of fame and financial success. Michael is shown struggling under constant pressure, where failure often leads to punishment.
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The Rise of The Jackson 5
The story then moves to the formation and rise of The Jackson 5. A key theme during this period is Michael&rsquo;s internal conflict between staying loyal to his brothers and pursuing a solo career, while also fearing leaving the group behind.
A Softer and More Human Side
The film also highlights a softer side of Michael Jackson. It shows his compassion toward animals, including his chimpanzee Bubbles, as well as his generosity toward sick children through hospital visits and donations. These moments help present a more personal and human side of his character.
Breakthrough Success with Thriller
As the story progresses, Michael enters his breakthrough era with the album Thriller, which becomes a global phenomenon. The film highlights how he helped transform music videos into cinematic storytelling, alongside the massive success of songs such as &ldquo;Billie Jean.&rdquo; Despite his success, tensions with his father continue in the background.
Fame, Injury, and Turning Points
After achieving major award wins and global recognition, the film shows a turning point when Michael suffers serious burns during a 1984 commercial shoot caused by a pyrotechnic accident. It also briefly covers his short reunion with his brothers before he decides to continue his career as a solo artist.
Transition into the Bad Era
Toward the end, the film introduces his struggle with vitiligo and begins to explore the early stages of the Bad era. However, the story ends suddenly, with a title card indicating that it will continue in a second installment.
Performances and Casting
Jaafar Jackson delivers a strong performance in the lead role, closely capturing Michael Jackson&rsquo;s movement and stage presence. Miles Teller also performs well as his manager, while Colman Domingo portrays Joe Jackson as a strict and demanding father.
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Production Design and Authenticity
The film&rsquo;s makeup and costume design contribute significantly to its authenticity, closely recreating Michael Jackson&rsquo;s iconic appearance and evolving style throughout his career.
Box Office Performance
According to Variety, the film opened strongly with $97 million domestically and $217 million worldwide in its first weekend, marking one of the strongest openings for a music biopic.
Final Verdict
With a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb, Michael successfully combines entertainment with emotional depth. It celebrates Michael Jackson&rsquo;s music and global impact while also revealing the personal struggles behind his fame, presenting him as both an icon and a deeply human figure.
Photo Credit: Michael's official page&nbsp;

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