This is not even a movie, or a documentary; it’s more of a collection of footage from the rehearsals of Michael Jackson’sill-fated upcoming concert, peppered by short interviews with dancers and musicians, all remarking how wonderful Michael is, and how it’s been their dream to perform with him. And from the footage, you can just imagine how amazing a concert it would have been…
…but it doesn’t show much onscreen. Jackson is literally performing at half power – “rehearsal power” – for most of the film. He even apologizes to his “audience” of dancers for having to save his voice. Oh, he does get into it now and again, losing himself in the moment and belting one out – for which he also apologizes – but this half-power performance shows most readily in his dancing. He still pulls off his signature movies with ease and does some fancy footwork; but for the most part his moves are reminiscent of Britney Spears at her notorious September 2007 MTV VMA performance (minus the belly roll). He seems to be hitting his marks more for the dancers around him than really BRINGING IT for the rehearsal… which I can understand… but I don't know if it makes for riveting movie-going.
Not to say there isn’t anything of worth onscreen, and MJ fans will surely lap this thing up and it will make a tidy sum of money. For instance, his humility is well on display (as is the way everyone pretty much kissed his ass), and he certainly knew his stuff; stopping his performances to ensure that cues are solid or that “moments’ are given their full due. He also is fairly funny at times, especially when he doesn’t mean to be. But I think those of you who have not drunk the Pepsi will easily grow weary of 112 minutes of “practice”.
Rich’s Movie Grade: C+
Rated PG for some suggestive choreography and scary images.
Director: Kenny Ortega
