FILM REVIEW: MICHAEL (12A) ESP RATING: 4/5

A glossy, nostalgic celebration that plays it safe – but still hits plenty of high notes.

I used to make film review videos on YouTube with my best mate, and we came to the same conclusion: sometimes, analysing a film too closely can actually take away from the experience. You start searching for flaws instead of simply enjoying what’s in front of you. Lately, I’ve tried to just watch films without overthinking them – and that really shaped how I experienced Michael.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day and The Equalizer) and written by John Logan (Gladiator and Skyfall), this long-awaited biopic charts the rise of Michael Jackson from his early days in the Jackson 5 to becoming one of the most iconic performers in music history.

Jaafar Jackson – Michael’s real-life nephew – takes on the lead role in his film debut, and he’s genuinely impressive. From the voice, to the mannerisms, to the stage presence, it never feels like an imitation or caricature. It comes across as natural, and at times, uncannily accurate.

Colman Domingo (Selma) also stands out as Joe Jackson, with the strained father-son dynamic providing some of the film’s more grounded and emotionally effective moments. The likes of Nia Long (Friday), Miles Teller (Top Gun: Maverick) and Mike Myers (Austin Powers series) help flesh out the cast.

Now, I couldn’t help but notice the overwhelming negativity surrounding this film. Some critics have been particularly harsh – even going as far as giving it one star. And I can understand that to an extent – if you go in picking it apart, there’s definitely plenty to criticise. But, again, that wasn’t the mindset I approached it with.

This is undeniably a softened, more polished version of Michael Jackson’s life. The more controversial aspects – which many will already be aware of – are largely sidestepped, aside from some exploration of his difficult upbringing. If you’re expecting a deep, unflinching biopic, this isn’t it.

It’s worth noting that a much darker, more complex version of the story is believed to exist on the cutting room floor. The film reportedly underwent significant reshoots after the Jackson Estate were unhappy with the original direction.

What we’re left with instead is a film that mostly focuses on the music – and I was more than okay with that.

The performance sequences are slick, energetic, and often exhilarating. There’s a real sense of spectacle throughout, and if you’re a fan of Michael Jackson’s catalogue, it’s hard not to get swept up in it.

Moments featuring songs like Thriller and Billie Jean are standout highlights – the kind that leave you grinning, with genuine goosebumps.

Ultimately, Michael is a celebration – essentially a glorified highlights reel for fans.

And if you go in with that expectation, there’s much to enjoy with the King of Pop. 

ESP Rating: 4/5

Mike Clarke

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUi3cuDTag0

Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough & Odeon Luxe Peterborough, Out Now

Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Keilyn Durrel, Laura Harrier, Jessica Sula, Mike Myers & Larenz Tate

Running Time: 2 Hrs 7 Mins

Director: Antoine Fuqua

Film Review Venue: Showcase Cinema De Lux Peterborough

For all the latest film information & showtimes at Peterborough’s Showcase Cinema De Lux & Odeon Luxe cinema go to www.showcasecinemas.co.uk and www.odeon.co.uk