Film Name: 迈克尔·杰克逊：巨星之路 / Michael
It’s strange, but maybe because I’m about to watch the musical biopic *Michael*, the beat of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” has been popping into my head at random moments these past couple of days—especially frequently today… As for why this particular song, it’s probably because, deep down, it serves as a signal in my subconscious that MJ is about to take the stage.
So, when I was sitting alone in the theater (yes, I had the whole place to myself) watching the opening credits roll and hearing the melody of “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” kick in, I instantly went into a state of euphoria. I quietly muttered to myself: “Screw objective reviews—this is definitely going to be a great movie!”
Of course, excitement aside, to be fair, *Michael* isn’t particularly outstanding—whether as a biopic or a drama. Even as a music film or a musical, it’s one of those works with “good lines but no great scenes.”
But I still like this movie, and I’m more than happy to give it a positive review, because it helps people remember Michael Jackson—a once-in-a-generation superstar who can truly be called “unparalleled before and after”—as he should be remembered.
Let me elaborate a bit, starting with the shortcomings.
*Michael* is indeed a bit too superficial. Even though it only skims the surface of MJ’s life journey—from 1966 in Indiana to the 1988 *Bad* tour at Wembley Stadium in London—it still omits many key figures and events. Instead, it focuses primarily on iconic moments and events from MJ’s performing career—such as the Jackson 5’s performances and the release of his solo album *Off the Wall*—while devoting significant screen time to the oversimplified conflict between him and his father.
Yet even with highlights like the recording of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” the choreography for “Beat It,” and the filming of the “Thriller” music video, *Michael* still leaves one feeling unsatisfied (or perhaps I’m just too greedy)—
especially in the closing segment, where the film’s focus clearly shifts to the Victory Tour. Songs like “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” “Human Nature,” and “Working Day and Night” appear in rapid succession. While the material is substantial, the narrative is too heavy-handed, and the songs feel too disjointed, failing to fully unleash the inherent tension of the live performances. The finale with “Bad” also feels disconnected from what came before… So it’s hard not to feel that the climax was underwhelming or lacking—in this regard, *Bohemian Rhapsody* did a much better job.
That said, this is mostly a matter of the film’s editing; I’m 120% satisfied with lead actor Jafal Jackson’s performance.
This nephew truly put in the hard work to portray Uncle MJ authentically. He mastered nearly every aspect—from intonation and vocal delivery to movements, expressions, and stage presence. For instance, his recreation of the Moonwalk during the Motown 25th Anniversary celebration was a spot-on replica.
Combined with the meticulous design of the costumes, makeup, and set decoration, as well as the spot-on staging, while it may not be a perfect capture of both form and spirit, it is still enough to leave audiences spellbound in many moments.
Those who have never seen MJ perform live will have their eyes opened by this film, while those who have will be able to relive MJ’s boundless charisma and charm—for this reason alone, *Michael* is already a surefire success.
Finally, I’d like to explain why I like this film: it is indeed shot in a simple, straightforward manner, but this simplicity—including the shortcomings mentioned earlier—surprisingly leaves the general public with the most beautiful and fitting impression of MJ.
Film critics have criticized the movie for avoiding MJ’s controversies, lacking character development, and lacking depth, while many die-hard fans have complained that the film feels “incomplete” and falls far short of perfection in terms of polish… These criticisms aren’t wrong, but I think it’s actually just fine the way it is.
It uses numerous historical moments to trace MJ’s journey of growth; it employs performances of immense quality to demonstrate MJ’s talent, prowess, and stature; it highlights through countless details that MJ was a kind, sensitive, and socially responsible person with a “Neverland” in his heart; and it dedicates appropriate screen time to revealing MJ’s lonely, timid, and overly innocent side…
By 1988, MJ hadn’t even reached the peak of his career, yet the film comes to an abrupt end. It may seem unsatisfying, but we all know the legend will continue.
Michael Jackson’s life was full of ups and downs and grand achievements; a two-hour biopic is certainly far from enough to capture all the brilliance of his life. But if it can leave behind a positive, uplifting impression that encapsulates the “American Dream” of a generation, that is enough. *Michael* is just right.