There is a case to be made that Michael Jackson is the biggest star to ever live. All someone has to say is that the man made Thriller. THRILLER! A biopic about his life seemed just about impossible to make with how big this man’s life was, the controversies that have surrounded him, and the fact that no one looks just like him. Impossible or not, 2026 brings audiences the long-awaited Michael biopic directed by Antoine Fuqua. Does it work as a biopic? Not very much. Is it a fantastic tribute to a once-in-a-lifetime talent? Absolutely.
What Really Works?
I want to talk about what really works before discussing the biggest problem with this movie. The acting in this film is phenomenal. When Jafar Jackson was announced to be playing his uncle, there was a mixed reaction. Some people thought a family member was a perfect choice, while others thought he looked nothing like the King of Pop. For being his first film, he gives an amazing performance.
This is a performance that could easily have felt like a corny impression. Instead, Jafar truly becomes Michael. He nails everything from his mannerisms to his voice to his dancing. There were times when I forgot I wasn’t watching Michael himself. The actor deserves so much praise, as he obviously has to carry a lot of the film.
Coleman Domingo as Michael’s dad, Joe Jackson, is terrifyingly so good in the role. This is the main conflict and story the movie wants to tell. It’s Michael trying to reclaim his life from his father. Every scene with them together works really well.
Director Antoine Fuqua does amazing work here, as the movie is just beautiful to look at. Every performance is amazing and leaves the audience dancing in their seats.
What Doesn’t Work?
The biggest issue with this movie for many is that it does not feel like a biopic. Some story beats are rushed, and we only touch the surface of who Michael really was inside. We see the abuse he faced and how he was different, but it is all things that could be found easily on Wikipedia.
There is a part two coming out, and it seems that it will focus more on his controversies and life up until his death, so it’s hard to truly complain about the movie missing information that might come at a later time. The main complaint is that the movie feels possibly sugar-coated and like it’s not a full movie. I don’t feel like that is necessarily a bad thing, though.
Overall
Michael is amazing as a tribute to one of the biggest stars on the planet. The acting, music, and cinematography are all Oscar-worthy. If you are a big Michael Jackson fan like me, you will definitely enjoy this. If you aren’t a fan at all, though, this movie won’t convert you into one. The movie is more interested in paying tribute and pleasing fans than telling a full narrative, and sometimes that is okay. The movie is a good time, and it is no surprise to me that it is dominating the box office. It will be interesting to see what people think when the sequel comes out. Until then, this might be the best movie we get about a very timeless yet complicated figure.
