A Michael Jackson tribute: Moonwalker movie review

July 6, 9:51 PMMinneapolis Movie ExaminerA D

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With people still in a state of shock over Michael Jackson's recent passing, most folks choose to honor him by simply breaking out the CD's (or records, 8-tracks, whatever the preference), playing his music, remembering his artistry, and recapturing the iconic energy felt around the globe for many decades.

So while doing these same things, I came across an old childhood favorite movie - Moonwalker, which hadn't been viewed in over 15 years. I wondered if the film would be as entertaining to me as an adult as it was as an kid. I also questioned if Moonwalker would play out how I remembered it.

The movie was actually quite enjoyable, or should I say, collection of shorts, as Moonwalker doesn't follow any sort of traditional film structure. For instance, his biographical section, covering from childhood to present time of the film (which was released in 1988) is quickly told through a combination of music videos (though the rest of the film features extended versions of videos, the way Jackson meant them to be shown, as opposed to the TV edited versions), a visual display that definitely takes the viewer on a trip down memory lane, showcasing some of Jackson's greatest hits, with his family, and solo.

Another highlight of the film is the parody of Bad, where Jackson uses kids in place of the adults which appeared in the real video. This features current stars of the time (R&B group The Boys), future stars (Brandon Adams, Nikki Cox, and Neo-Soul singer Bilal), and even a next generation Jackson (Jermaine Jackson Jr.). But whoever the kid is with the tracksuit, headband, and 5 o'clock shadow, he cracks me up every time.

The section of the movie that most resembles a traditional film is the Smooth Criminal story arc, where Michael's looking to escape the wrath of the notorious drug dealer Frankie Lideo, aka "Mr. Big" (played by Joe Pesci), as well as later rescue three homeless kids/friends from Mr. Big's clutches. Thanks to a shooting star, Michael's able to transform into a 1970 Lancia Stratos (a very cool looking car) to get away from trouble, and later, into a robot (intact with a metal jheri curl and everything!), then, a spaceship. 

A very fun and creative movie, mixed in with some classic MJ music and extended videos. I might have to watch this a little more often, as there's certain elements to the creation of this film I can actually appreciate a bit more as an adult.

Rest In Peace Michael Jackson (August 29th, 1958 - June 25th, 2009). You'll truly be missed.   

Moonwalker. Directed by Jerry Kramer, Jim Blashfield, and Colin Chilvers. Produced by Frank DiLeo and Michael Jackson.