This is Paul Salfen with your KLAK Movie Minute. In theaters now is Michael, the long-awaited Michael Jackson biopic starring Jafaar Jackson, Michael’s nephew – and HE does not disappoint and fans of Michael will enjoy this nice highlights reel of the early years and his incredible run during the golden era. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film will likely divide viewers and critics given its glossed-over version of the story and the avoidance of controversy, but it does serve as a great reminder of what Jackson did accomplish despite his hard upbringing, illustrated well by the menacing Colman Domingo as his domineering father and constant sense of alienation, aided only by his connection with children and the love of his mom, played well by Nia Long. Jafaar – who is the son of Jermaine – often bears a strong resemblance, (which would have been tough to find otherwise) but the speaking voice and the moves are out-of-this-world good. The story, which had many Jacksons involved, obviously aimed to show why Michael was who he was so that people could understand him and set up the hard parts for the sequel and beyond. But this is the legacy film. It’s also a Hollywood film – not everything is quite how it happened – there are many people, places, and things missing here – notably Janet Jackson and key players in his life. But also, there’s a time limit and it’s meant to be a crowd-pleaser – and as best one could tell from the screening, it was. That’s it for this week. Join me next week and every week for another Movie Minute right here on 97.5 KLAK, AMFM MAGAZINE, and RECRD.
