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Michael Jackson's "This Is It" delivers
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If you go to see Michael Jackson's documentary This Is It expecting a wrenching elegy to the iconic pop star or an insightful peek into his troubled psyche, you'll be disappointed. Director Kenny Ortega neither tries to tug at the heartstrings nor offer a glimpse into the mind of the notoriously eccentric artist. But that's not such a bad thing. This Is It is just a good solid film showcasing one of the most influential entertainers of our generation... and that's all it has to be.
The two-hour film was culled from more than 100 hours of footage of interviews and rehearsals for Michael Jackson's sold-out 50-show London tour that was canceled following his tragic death. And what a show it would have been! The young musicians and backup dancers who Jackson handpicked to tour with him are extremely talented, the sets and special effects are dazzling, and Jackson's showmanship is on full display. For the song "They Don't Care About Us," CGI technology is used to multiply 11 live dancers to 1,100 virtual dancers, marching in unison on a big screen behind the performers. The song "Smooth Criminal" is preceded by a handsome black-and-white film featuring Rita Hayworth serenading Jackson, Humphrey Bogart chasing him with a machine gun, and a climatic Matrix-style crash through a window. And "Thriller," of course, pulls out the stops, with spectacular dance moves, an eerie graveyard stage, massive ghosts floating above the crowd, and Jackson popping out of the underside of a giant mechanical spider.
All the favorite hits are included: "Bad," "Beat It," "Billie Jean," "Black or White," "Wanna Be Startin' Something'," "Human Nature," even a couple Jackson 5 hits. It was so rousing that several audience members clapped after each performance. Jackson, moving with effortless skill and grace, was a sight to behold, even though he was clearly conserving his energy for the actual shows. However, the running time felt a bit lengthy. Some songs could have been pared down a little or omitted altogether. "Earth Song," for instance, is sure to be tedious for all but the most ardent MJ fans. It is commendable that environmental issues were near to Jackson's heart, but the song and its saccharine video should have been relegated to bonus DVD footage.
This Is It is hugely entertaining, but it's sobering to watch Michael Jackson excitedly preparing for the concert that would have catapulted him back on top. One of the most touching moments in the film is a scene in which Jackson finishes a dance number and an offstage voice instructs "Hold for applause." As the lights fade to darkness, a childlike smile of contentment washes over Jackson's face as he holds for the applause that isn't there. It's such a shame he didn't live to hear it again.
This Is It will be playing in theaters through Thanksgiving weekend. For showtimes in New York City, click here.
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