Loading ...This Is It review
Billboards, the radio, the internet and BBC News have promoted “This Is It”. When the film was declared to the press, it was clear that it was to be scrutinised heavily; especially due to Michael Jackson’s sudden death and prior speculation that he would not complete the 50 O2 shows. Once sitting amongst a noisy crowd in the cinema, it was only natural to wonder about the response the film would provoke. However, many seemed engaged in the film; occasionally applauding and toe-tapping but mostly quietly lost in the experience. It is likely that the film was received with curiosity; as it showed a side of Jackson unseen by the general public. Here he was relaxed, in his element and having fun. He was also observably in control. The film shows that he arrived at rehearsals prepared to raise the overall standard of the performance. Firstly, he exhibited great knowledge and understanding of the technicalities of his music and remembered his choreography. Also, in addition to this, he helped those working with him to achieve a higher quality of performance. One of the best parts was his advising the electric guitarist on how to make her musical interlude sensational. It was! Although it could be seen that the expertise and focus that enabled him to create his songs and their lyrics still remained, he threw no pompous tantrums and instead had an air of humility. Something else that was visible was a sense of humour, which at times brought a smile or chuckle to the cinema audience as well as his colleagues.
It could be seen that Jackson’s colleagues also enjoyed the rehearsals. In mini-interviews many showed that they were either star-struck, in awe of his genius or extremely proud to be working with such phenomenal talent. Many of the rehearsal’s attendants watched his every move and cheered excitedly for him after his performances. And his recorded morning entry into the studio was greeted by excited whispers of “Michael’s here!” Alongside the visible admiration and camaraderie, a light and euphoric atmosphere exuded from the studio into the viewing audience. Something less pleasant was the sense of exploitation created by the director giving the impression that more polished performances from Jackson were preferable to the actual requirement: a brief outline of what was to be. In hindsight however, some argue that this was Jackson’s final chance to prove to the world that he was still legendary.
Arguably, this film conveyed the message that it will be difficult to find anyone possessing the combination of Jackson’s warm nature, stamina, talent, abilities in and love for musical performance. As the rehearsals shown in the film were a visual treat, it is difficult to conceive of a higher level of performance. However, it is likely that the show would have improved even further beyond expectations. For many viewers this film will be received in the same way that they receive anything else concerning Michael Jackson. There will be viewers who are fans; those who are neutral; the sceptical and those who disliked him. However, one certainty brought out by this film is that many of those who saw it will now see him in a more positive light.
RIP Michael