Michael (2026)

I’m Michael Jackson, you Tito! – Chris Tucker in “Rush Hour.”

We’re all familiar with the King of Pop, Michael “MJ” Jackson. He began his career at a young age with his brothers in The Jackson 5, went on to become a solo act, his albums were a huge success, music videos were iconic including “Beat It,” “Bad” and of course, “Thriller.” Don’t forget his moonwalk dance. His personal life isn’t a pleasant one. His father, Joesph abused him as a kid and used him for profit. MJ insecure over his appearance. He suffered from vitiligo. A skin disease that altered his skin into white.

In both 1993 & 2005, MJ was accused of molesting little boys. Back in 2003, the cops were given a search warrant raiding Neverland Ranch. MJ went to two trials in both 1993 & 2005. He was acquitted. I think the sexual abuse allegations as depicted in the HBO documentary, “ Leaving Neverland” are false. In 2009, just as he was about to get ready for touring, MJ from an over dose of Propofol. An anesthetic drug prescribed by his doctor, Conrad Murray. MJ’s surviving family members, friends and colleagues attended a televised funeral.

Despite controversy, MJ’s legacy lives on inspiring future singers. Many individuals mentioned they were influenced by the late legend. Without MJ, none of than would’ve launched a music career.

Beyoncé
Justin Timberlake
Usher
Bruno Mars
Rihanna
Alicia Keys
Britney Spears
Jay Kay (Jamiroquai)
Brandy
The Weeknd
Janelle Monàe
Keke Palmer
Fergie
Kelly Rowland
Mariah Carey
Madonna
Kendrick Lamar
Mark Ronson
Pharrell Williams
Charlie Puth

Lionsgate obtained film rights to produce a Michael Jackson biopic with Jafaar Jackson portraying his uncle. Antoine Fuqua (Training Day, The Equalizer Trilogy) signed on to direct. MJ’s family including his mother, brothers and children (minus Paris) approved the casting choice. Originally intended to come out in April 18, 2025, the film was delayed a year later due to reshoots and removing elements of his later life including the sexual abuse allegations trimming the four-hour cut in half.

“Michael” is currently out in theaters. The film earned negative reactions, but audience and fans of the late legend praised it. As I recall, I listed Michael as one of my “Highly Anticipated Films of 2026.” Should you go out and see Michael? Yes. I have legitimate reasons why it’s definitely worth your spare time.

It doesn’t matter if SPOILERS are listed. We’re already aware of Michael Jackson’s life and career.

Strong & Weak Qualities

Strong: Jafaar Jackson did an excellent job for his performance. He channeled his uncle’s mannerisms to a tee.

Other Cast Members such as Coleman Domingo, Nia Long & Miles Teller all did a decent job for their respective performances.

Most of MJ’s family members served as executive producers.

Antoine Fuqua did a great job directing.

John Logan (Gladiator, The Last Samurai, Sweeney Todd) wrote the script.

Singing and Dance Numbers are a core element. They were effective.

Pacing didn’t feel like a drab. I was hooked since the beginning.

Cinematography’s shot in stable condition.

The film chronicles MJ’s life and career from his childhood in The Jackson 5 beginning in 1966 to his Bad in 1988.

As you know, MJ’s favorite film was Disney’s “Peter Pan.” It’s brought up as a picture book. Plus, MJ was a huge Disney fan.

MJ’s chemistry with his family, friends and colleagues serve as the driving force.

Mike Myers makes a brief appearance president of CBS Records, Walter Yetnikoff. A much nicer version than Mike’s other role as Ray Foster in the Freddie Mercury biopic, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” I would assume, Mike’s also a big MJ fan besides Queen.

Weak: Janet Jackson’s absent. She’s another important figure in MJ’s life. I have no source on why she declined to be depicted in MJ’s biopic. Another absent figure, Diana Ross. Paris Jackson claims the biopic is dishonest. As for Diana, she was cut due to legal issues.

Originally filmed as a four-hour biopic, some scenes were cut. Maybe an Extended Edition could happen. So, I’ll let this con slide.

The Final Verdict: A-

Regardless of negative reactions, Michael is a fantastic biopic. I enjoyed it from start to finish. Rumor has it, a sequel may continue MJ’s later life from the 1990s-2009. Make up footage deleted from the Final Cut. If not, perhaps a four-hour Extended Edition retaining every single scene. Should you go out and see Michael? Yes. If you’re a fan of MJ’s, it’s a must-see film.

Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson. Your legacy continues to inspire past, present and future generations.