Michael Jackson's This is It Review

Kenny Ortega's Documentary Has A Message for Everyone

Nov 5, 2009

Michael Jackson's This Is It tour was to begin in London, but it was a tour that was never to be. Luckily, Ortega did a masterful job of saving the show for all time.

The documentary of Michael Jackson's This is It planned tour begins with a touching montage of interviews with the young dancers and performers who will be an integral part of the production. There is so much energy, talent, beauty and creativity in this film that it is easy to get lost in the dynamism. For anyone who is a Michael Jackson fan, the nearly two hour film will flash by in an instant. MJ, as he is called by the cast, is a stellar performer, choreographer, dancer and showman, still at the top of his game. He has the moves, the voice, and the vision - they are all there.

The amazing creativity behind what was sure to have been one of the most polished and innovative performances of all time is only topped by the message behind the music. If the scandals, the rumors of drug abuse, or fear of ill health are what you are anticipating, even in shadow form, be assured there is no shortage of positive energy emanating from the artist. This is a man on a mission, full of life, with a story to tell and a message to give to the world. And if you are expecting truncated bits of film, disjointed with missing segments and absences in the filming, you will be pleasantly surprised at the skilled editing in the wonderful documentary.

This is It Tells the Story of Michael Jackson's Craft as Well as of His Heart

Part of the emotion of the movie is the fact that Michael's production never made it to the final polished performance. But every special effect, each filmed segment, every rehearsal was so impressive that this documentary may well have recorded the essence of Michael Jackson that might have been lost had the production ever been staged. Anyone who has participated in rehearsals know that the energy is very different from the final performance, with most people holding back, without the adrenalin that pumps in the final act.

This gives the film a more personal vantage point, allows the viewer to see the interaction between the principles, and gives a fuller sense to the man and production company than would ever be seen in a full-fledged performance onstage. It is close-up and personal. and the comraderie is evident, too - Michael was quite the team-builder and leader on the set. Michael is seen doing what he is so adept at doing, creating unforgettable music and dance, molding young talent into memorable performance and cohesive imagery.

The Reason for the Tour, the Meaning of This Is It is Unexpected and Timely

Most people thought the tour was a way for Michael to redeem himself professionally, but after watching This Is It, that would appear to be only a secondary goal, rather than the reason for the tour. Michael had a passion and a message to get out to the world. With the smooth editing, beautiful behind-the-scenes shots and myriad of special effects, the film takes you on a magic carpet ride, with never a dull minute. When it finally ends, there is a sense of having witnessed something significant; there is a sense of loss. Michael is gone, but his vision has been left on celluloid, in his music, his vision, his craft.

There are moments that bring flashbacks, too, like the director asking Michael to hold on to the lift that takes him into the air (remember the hair catching fire during the Pepsi commercial?) and admonishing him to please be careful; or the restaging of Thriller (one of the first music videos that impacted the entire world). There are a few clips from Michael's early life, but only those used in the show. This is smooth, polished, and memorable - just like Michael himself - one of a kind, unique, unforgettable. Hopefully above all the glitz and sparkle, beyond the pyrotechnics and masterful moves, his message will resonate - This Is It.

The copyright of the article Michael Jackson's This is It Review in Documentary Films is owned by Barbara DeGrande. Permission to republish Michael Jackson's This is It Review in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.