The new biopic Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua, takes us through the electrifying rise of Michael Jackson, portrayed by his nephew, Jaafar Jackson. The film offers a high-energy tribute to the King of Pop’s early career, but it faces sharp criticism for its lack of depth, particularly when it comes to the controversies that surrounded his life. Critics argue that while it delivers on musical performances, it doesn’t quite hit the mark with character development, making the film feel more like a nostalgic cash grab than a honest portrayal of an iconic figure.
Fuqua’s direction seems to favor a glossed-over view of Jackson’s darker moments, preferring to monetize his music catalog instead. The overwhelming response has been mixed, with the movie projected to break box office records despite its shortcomings. Audiences will likely find themselves tapping their feet to Jackson’s classics, but they may also leave the theater without grappling with the more complicated aspects of his legacy. In the end, it begs the question: can art ever truly separate itself from the artist?
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Local Lawton
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