The Golden Globes committee has rejected Lionsgate’s submission of“Michael”in the musical/comedy category. According to the ruling, first reported by Gold Derby, the Michael Jackson biopic’s songs don’t advance the plot the way the category rules require. Lionsgate is weighing an appeal ahead of the October 31 deadline, and the committee would review it. If the rejection stands, the film and star Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, move into the more crowded drama categories.
The stakes here go beyond one trophy. Category placement sets the tone for the entire awards season, and the drama field is famously brutal. Add in the fact that“Michael”is already the highest-grossing musical biopic of all time while critics were far less kind (Consequence gave it a C- and called it a“vapid biopic”), and you have a campaign built on contradiction: massive commercial success, mixed reviews, and ongoing scrutiny around the abuse allegations against Michael Jackson.
So what actually makes a movie a musical? The Globes rule is clear: songs have to be woven into the story, not just performed in it. Whether a biopic packed with iconic performances clears that bar is now a debate for the committee, the studio, and everybody with an opinion. Where do you land on this one?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.