Dir: Antoine Fuqua, US, 2026, 155 mins
Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, Juliano Krue Valdi.
Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara
It serves as a deep dive into the evolution of a disciplined child star into a global titan, set against the backdrop of a notoriously complex and often painful relationship with his father and manager, Joe Jackson. From the Motown auditions to the pinnacle of solo superstardom, the film attempts to peel back the curtain on the man behind the sequined glove.
To understand the weight of this film, one must revisit the early 80s, a time when the premiere of a music video like Thriller wasn’t just a promotional tool, but a global cultural milestone. Michael Jackson didn’t just make “music videos”; he created the blueprint for the modern short film, blending high-end production with narrative storytelling. However, in the years since, that artistic legacy has often been overshadowed by the “tabloid circus” of his later life. While fellow critics have remained divided, it is essential to remember that Jackson was acquitted on every single count of the allegations that trailed him, with zero evidence found. This film asks the audience to set aside the noise and reconnect with his creative journey.
The undeniable heartbeat of this production is Jaafar Jackson. There is no other way to put it: he is absolutely sensational. As Michael’s nephew (son of Jermaine Jackson), the genetic shorthand is evident, but the performance is driven by his own sheer determination to inhabit his uncle’s spirit. There are sequences where the artifice of acting simply vanishes; his movement, his cadence, and that specific, electric “spark” are captured with haunting precision. If Jaafar isn’t shortlisted for the upcoming awards season, it would be an injustice.
The supporting cast provides a formidable foundation, led by Colman Domingo as the patriarch, Joe Jackson. Domingo, whom many will recognise for his powerhouse, Emmy-winning turn in HBO’s Euphoria, brings a chilling, layered intensity to the role that only an actor of his calibre could achieve. Alongside him, Nia Long delivers a soulful performance as Katherine Jackson keep the story grounded although the performance felt slightly sugar-coasted in parts.
Visually and aurally, the film is electric. The costume design offers a mirror image of Jackson’s iconic wardrobe, and the cinematography is lush, capturing the scale of his stage presence. One cannot help but feel that Michael’s spirit was channelled through Jaafar to deliver one last perfect performance.
However, the film is not without its omissions. For a story spanning two decades, the absence of key figures like Elizabeth Taylor is baffling. Perhaps most noticeable is the lack of Janet Jackson. Considering she was his closest sibling, her absence feels like a narrative sinkhole. While whispers suggest she may have declined to be portrayed to protect her own story, the film feels strangely incomplete without that pivotal sibling dynamic.
Ultimately, Michael was crafted to celebrate a life and remind the world of a unique, untouchable talent. My advice? Do not be swayed by the bandwagon of negativity. Keep an open mind, sit back, and immerse yourself in the craft. Most importantly, do not be shy about getting up to dance during the credits. There is something profoundly beautiful about seeing generations of fans come together to celebrate a legacy that remains unparalleled. Whether you are of the old school or the new generation, this is a moment to share in that collective positivity.
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