The fact that few entertainers have left as indelible a mark on music, dance, and pop culture as Michael Jackson is simply undeniable. Despite waves of controversy in the later stages of his career and life, Jackson’s legacy has endured across the decades and continues to shape the entertainment industry in profound ways. In an era where musical biopics are prized, it was really only a matter of time before his story made its way to the big screen. In the wake of the box-office and awards success of Bohemian Rhapsody, which retold the tale of Freddie Mercury and Queen, producer Graham King set his sights on resurrecting another icon in Michael.
Who could possibly capture the essence and sheer talent of the King of Pop in a music biopic? In hindsight, the answer feels practically inevitable; it had to be kept in the family. And so it did with Jaafar Jackson stepping into his uncle’s bedazzled socks and loafers for his feature film acting debut. Michael traces the titular icon’s whirlwind rise, from childhood stardom in The Jackson 5 alongside his brothers to his turbulent family life and, of course, the evolution into a solo phenomenon whose series of smash hit albums defined an entire generation. Unsurprisingly, this movie does not span his entire story. Instead, much like Bohemian Rhapsody, it builds to a climactic finale at Wembley Stadium in 1988.
Let the Music Play
From the film’s opening moments, the music is utterly intoxicating. Beyond the largely stellar performances, it’s the catalog of Michael Jackson’s toe-tapping hits, spanning from “ABC” to “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” to “Thriller” to “Bad,” that does most of the heavy lifting. The viewing experience of Michael often transposes into something resembling a vivacious, communal jam session. For director Antoine Fuqua, best known for Training Day (2001) and The Equalizer franchise, and former James Bond 007 writer John Logan, this biopic marks a clear departure from their action-driven work. This works to the movie’s advantage, though, as there is a palpable sense of high energy and rhythm baked into the script’s narrative, specific to Jackson’s early career.
Courtesy of Lionsgate
The screenplay, however, is occasionally overly sanitized, with heavy-handed dialogue and an over-reliance on recreation rather than re-envisioning. Equally, there are intimate scenes and moments that truly land, offering insight into Michael’s philosophy and relentless work ethic. On the whole, the plot carries enough intrigue and almost unbelievably accurate musical retellings to keep the narrative on track. It’s not until the final act that Michael teeters too far into feeling like a concert documentary over a biographical film with a complete ending.
Resurrecting an Icon
Be prepared to be bombarded by the statement that Jaafar Jackson is the real deal. It is simply the truth. This was always going to be an extremely difficult role for anyone to pull off while maintaining some degree of authenticity. Especially for someone making their acting debut, Jaafar nails every aspect in a miraculous turnout. The voice, the charisma, the dance moves, he has it down to a T. It really does seem like this is going to be a performance that is talked about all year long, and deservedly so.
To no surprise, this isn’t the only breakout performance Michael has to offer. Twelve-year-old Juliano Valdi, who portrays Michael Jackson in his youth, is a spirited revelation. Having posted videos showcasing his MJ-inspired dance skills long before being cast, he’s an absolute natural and carries the first chapter of this story with ease. There are many other supporting roles that are fundamental, but none more so than the 2x Oscar-nominated scene-stealer Colman Domingo (Sing Sing, Rustin) as Joe Jackson. His portrayal captures the volatile and exploitative nature of the Jackson family patriarch. Domingo’s magnetic screen presence lingers even in his absence, casting a shadow over the young Michael that cranks up the tension.
Technical High Notes and Missed Beats
It would be wrong not to acknowledge the craftsmanship that supports Jaafar Jackson’s multi-level transformation into the King of Pop. Throughout the movie, Michael’s image is reshaped and recontextualized through various hairstyles, makeup, and costumes. No matter what era, the end result is always strikingly uncanny. His evolving image spans decades and is reproduced for the screen with astounding care. Even longtime, diehard fans will be taken aback by the level of detail on display, backed by Jaafar’s precise performance.
Sadly, the same can’t be said for all the technical elements. The visual effects, primarily used to replicate audiences during massive concert sequences, are often unrefined. When paired with crowd work that lacks variation and any real direction, along with occasionally choppy editing, the much-needed immersion is briefly shattered. Usually, viewers quickly find themselves hooked back in, thanks to Jaafar Jackson. MJ’s larger-than-life career was built in no small part by his fans, and the absence of detail in these cutaways, which are desperately trying to evoke mania rather than that very relationship, results in a superficial feeling. Michael takes a generalized approach to representing his fandom on screen, undercutting the unique emotional intent behind why he was so adored.
An Electric Tribute
Despite its technical flaws and position as a “first part” to a bigger picture, Michael stands as an entertaining experience that fans are going to have a blast with. As crazy as it sounds, this may be the first deep dive into Michael Jackson’s prolific career for a rising generation. With that in mind, it genuinely gets the job done. Antoine Fuqua’s Michael biopic is a portrait that finds its greatest strengths when surrendering to music and performance, leaving other aspects to waver. Although uneven, the film is never dull or lacking in ambition. In the moments where all the stars align, it captures the lightning-in-a-bottle sensation of seeing one of history’s greatest entertainers right before your eyes.
★ ★ ★ 1/2
Michael hits theaters on April 24!
Release Date: April 24, 2026.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua.
Written by John Logan.
Produced by Graham King, John Branca, & John McClain.
Executive Producers: Antoine Fuqua, Jermaine Jackson, Jackie Jackson, La Toya Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Tito Jackson, Prince Michael Jackson, Hayley King, David B. Householder, Ron Burkle, Karen Langford, Jordan Schur, & Lydia Silverman.
Main Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Juliano Krue Valdi, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Jamal R. Henderson, Jayden Harville, Tre Horton, Jaylen Lyndon Hunter, Rhyan Hill, Judah Edwards, Joseph David-Jones, Nathaniel Logan McIntyre, Jessica Sula, Kendrick Sampson, Larenz Tate, Liv Symone, Kevin Shinick, Mike Myers, & Deon Cole.
Cinematographer: Dion Beebe.
Composer: Lior Rosner.
Editors: John Ottman & Harry Yoon.
Production Companies: Lionsgate Films & GK Films.
Distributor: Lionsgate (United States) & Universal Pictures (International).
Runtime: 127 minutes.
Rated PG-13.
