Be there for Michael Jackson’s ‘This Is It’
By: Leslie Katz
Examiner Staff Writer
October 28, 2009
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| He’s bad: Michael Jackson’s artistry is the subject of “This Is It,” a documentary showing rehearsals for his comeback concert that never occurred. (Courtesy photo) |
SAN FRANCISCO — "Wacko Jacko" is not in the building in "This Is It."
The documentary, compiled from hundreds of hours of footage shot during rehearsals for Michael Jackson's final concert engagement, shows the performer at the peak of professionalism.
His fans, or anyone interested in pop music of the late 20th century, won't be disappointed by Kenny Ortega's enthralling film, which puts the spotlight where it belongs: on the artist working at his craft.
Ortega was in a unique position to make the film, released today in a limited two-week engagement.
As director of Jackson's comeback tour that never happened -- it was slated to begin in London in the summer -- he was Jackson's primary collaborator in the days before the pop star died in June.
The gentle, respectful ways the pair worked so well together, and how Jackson worked with other musicians and dancers in awe of him, come through beautifully in the movie, which intersperses brief commentary with great behind-the-scenes images showing how an arena show of the highest quality is made. From pyrotechnics to acrobats to Hollywood-level video work, no expense seems to be spared.
Yet Jackson himself fills the screen throughout- - despite the fact that, much of the time, in attempts to save his voice and energy for performances, he's not giving his all.
It's not a problem. The "coasting" King of Pop (though not looking sickly, but thin as a rail in awesome wardrobe – he does not wear knockabout rehearsal gear) is still more compelling than the majority of today's musical acts.
While there are no complete numbers in "This Is It," there are terrific songs, from the Jackson 5 days ("I Want You Back," "I'll Be There") to megahits ("Thriller," "Billie Jean") to political and personal statements ("Earth Song," "Man in the Mirror"). As with any concert, viewers may quibble about song selection; this fan wanted more from "Off the Wall."
The movie doesn't try to plumb the depths of Jackson's personality -- he wears dark glasses a lot and is seen licking a lollipop once -- but it does reveal the soft-voiced man as a consummate professional and perfectionist, calling creative shots with certainty, expecting the best from his colleagues, yet kindly allowing them their own moments to shine.
Still, it's his power that fuels the film, which, in the end, may be the ultimate expression of his artistry, and even better than a live show in a crowded stadium.
Moviegoers will see and hear Jackson with clarity and compassion in this offering, which poignantly leaves them wanting even more. It's an ideal epitaph, of sorts, for one of the last century's most dynamic entertainers.
MOVIE REVIEW
Michael Jackson’s This Is It: three and a half stars
Starring Michael Jackson
Written and directed by Kenny Ortega
Rated PG
Running time 1 hour 55 minutes
