MICHAEL (2026) REVIEW
Formulaic, Safe, Fun & Loud…The fans will love it but is that enough?
Michael plays like a high-octane energy concert biopic that cuts at such a fast pace, only slowing down for moments for melodramatic or comedic beats from Michael’s life. Colman Domingo gives everything he has as Joseph Jackson. Putting the fear of god of everyone around him and Jaafar Jackson captures flashes of Michael’s essence through his movement and voice.
We start off in the childhood home of the Jacksons, showcasing the hardship Michael and his brothers endured at the hand of his father. The picture painted here is one that continues throughout the film, showcasing that his relationship between his father is what shapes his decisions and music.
If you want a film that is ready to dive deep into Michael’s internal world, his relationship to the music, the pressure, the contradictions….this won’t really be the film for you. Michael plays more like a highlight reel combined with a family drama. It doesn’t break the mold from traditional musical biopics that we see time-and-time again. I imagine a world in which this film showcases the artistry of Michael Jackson, albeit for a few moments we don’t see the man behind the mirror. I do believe that what it lacks in introspection makes up for in sheer spectacle.
The music absolutely carries this film and plays like a full-on concert experience. Watch this in IMAX or Dolby so you can feel the energy ripple through the crowd. Growing up on Michael Jackson’s music makes it almost impossible not to get swept up in the greatest hits. I wanted more but as an entertaining, almost immersive tribute to a tortured artist, it works.
