This Is It (2009)
2009
PG
111 Minutes
A compilation of interviews, rehearsals and backstage footage of Michael Jackson as he prepared for his series of sold-out shows in London.
User Review
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This Is It really was it for Michael Jackson. Dark joke aside, MJ's 'This Is It' comeback was the concert to end all concerts. Astronomical production values, from visual effects to elaborate staging, that encapsulate some of the greatest hits from the late "King of Pop". This documentary both acts as a compilation of his pop classics and behind-the-scenes footage of the concert that sadly fans never got to witness. It acts as an insight to the enigmatic personality of Jackson, a perfectionist who relishes in faith and music. His attentive qualities and natural rhythm really highlight why he will always be one of the greatest musical artists to have ever lived. "Thriller", "Beat It", "Smooth Criminal", "Man in the Mirror", "Black or White"...the discography is endless. Each of these are presented through footage of the dress rehearsals, acting as a window to what could've been but unfortunately was not to be. I appreciate the minimal amount of sentimentality throughout this "rockumentary" as it were. It doesn't rely on purposefully making you cry, the performances and lyrics alone have enough meaning to send shivers down your spine. "I'll Be There" in particular was most effective, with archival footage of the Jackson 5 accompanying the song. However, there is an underlying sense of profitability that lurks beneath this documentary. It feels unfinished, bearing no narrative cohesion. And as a perfectionist, I suspect MJ would not have approved of this documentary's release. Especially so soon after, you cannot help but feel that the Michael Jackson Group used this feature as a means of money at the expense of his death. Which is a shame, as with more care this could've been much more authentic. A few thoughts from his colleagues after his death could easily have been incorporated to make the documentary all that more personal. But despite corporation greed, it's an energetic compilation of performances that highlights his euphoric status to viewers globally. After two hours, you would think I could attempt a decent "moonwalk", yet here I am still failing at that!0 member like this review.
