26/04/2026
VRSUS VERDICT: Michael
If thereās one thing this movie absolutely nailed, itās Jaafar Jackson. The guy didnāt just play the role, he BECAME it. There were moments where you legit forget youāre watching an actor and not Michael Jackson himself. From the voice to the tiniest mannerisms, you can tell he put in serious work to honor his uncleās legacy. For a film debut? Thatās insane.
But hereās where things get a bitā¦ safe. The film kind of sidesteps the heavier, more complicated parts of MJās life, which makes everything feel a little surface-level. And for someone as massive and influential as MJ, that deeper dive felt like something the movie shouldāve tackled instead of glossing over.
That said, Iām not saying skip it. Honestly, itās still a fun watch, especially if you grew up vibing to MJās hits. The performances, the music, the whole nostalgic rush? It hits. You get a glimpse of his creative process, his spontaneity, and how fearless he was when it came to breaking norms and making a statement.
Now I am hoping that rumored part 2 actually happens, because thatās where things could really get interesting. I wanted to see the more controversial, complicated side of his lifeāthe stuff that really shows who he was as a person, not just the icon. Something that hits you emotionally the way 'Bohemian Rhapsody' did, where you walk out with a deeper appreciation for both the artist and the music.
At the end of the day, donāt let critics decide for you. Watch it, feel it, and see where you land. Because honestly, your own take is what matters most.
Universal Pictures PH
