I recently sat down and watched "This Is It", on the recommendation of a friend. This film is sort of documentary style and it follows the rehearsals at the Staple Center in L.A. for Michael Jacksons concerts that were to take place in London. I thought the film would dabble a little into his past, but it pretty much stayed with his preparation for the concerts.
Many things struck me about the film, but first and foremost is the fact that this didn't look like a man who was out of it and weeks away from death. Jackson was in top form. He was doing all the moves. He was hitting all the notes. He was having fun. You always hear about how he didn't like to touch people and all that and there is nothing in the film that would lead you to believe that he wasn't like any other entertainer (except for his physical appearance from plastic surgery). What I learned from the movie is that the man was a perfectionist and worked very hard.
Again, I really have to believe that the doctors totally had him messed up with the medications he was apparently taking. He was working out with Lou Ferrigno to get in shape. He was working with the band (no, not drum machines and tape loops), giving them feedback and he was training the dancers, which all were enthralled with getting to work with a legend.
If you are even just a casual fan of Michael Jackson you are likely to enjoy this film. He does the hits, "Billie Jean", "Beat It", "Black or White", "Thriller", etc., and he does them with care, emotion, and near perfection. Sure, Jackson had his troubles and bizarre ways, but there is no denying his talent or work ethic. I would have loved to have seen this show in its' finished state, with all the bells, whistles, and trademark Michael Jackson moves.But, since that will never happen, this is the next best thing. Seeing Jackson at age 50 doing his thing and loving it.
"...and no message could have been any clearer. If you wanna make the world a better place take a look at yourself and make that change."--- Man In The Mirror-Michael Jackson
