New(ish) Release: Michael

Let’s just get this out there: Michael Jackson is a complicated human.

Michael (2026)

As a Gen X adult, I grew up with MJ, had all his albums, and recognize him still as THE greatest pop star of all time. His level of fame will never be surpassed anytime soon.

However, MJ also has a complicated past. Body dysmorphia, sleepovers with little kids, odd relationships…

Those who want to go back and relive those moments from his era, enjoying the music, experiencing the MTV video aspect of it all, will love it. Jaafar Jackson IS Michael Jackson in this movie. There are times when he embodies him so much that it is almost unnerving. The moves, the voice, and the mannerisms are all there. You are in a time capsule being hurled back into time.

Juliano Valdi (young Michael) is THE heart of this movie

Those expecting to see a highly private celebrity fleshed out by all his intricacies will leave disappointed. You move through aspects of his life at breakneck speed. From surgeries, a brief mention of vitiligo, adopting Bubbles, how fast he was rushed through childhood…nothing lands long enough before you’re distracted by another song, which I will admit, you do fall victim to. The main story centers around his rough relationship with his father.

Colman Domingo does a decent job as the menacing Joe Jackson

Another odd omission is no Janet. You don’t see her, as a child, even scamper across the house. Her name is never mentioned. It almost becomes glaring.

Variety reported that $15M in reshoots included removing the 1993 police raid on the Neverland Ranch. Jackson was never convicted but did settle out of court.

If we’re judging based on music, easy 5/5

But if we’re judging it against other musical biopics, you must remember Straight Outta Compton, Ray, and Walk the Line…where the story was deeper, meatier, this movie doesn’t go into the weeds outside of the abuse he suffered at the hands of his father.

Overall, leaning heavily on the music aspect 3.5/5