The highly anticipated biopic Michael has finally hit theaters, sparking a massive divide between critics and fans. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by the team behind Bohemian Rhapsody, Michael has officially become the cinematic event of the year. Featuring Jaafar Jackson in a transformative debut as his uncle, the film traces Michael’s journey from the Gary, Indiana, porches of the Jackson 5 to the global stages of the Thriller era. To understand why this film is causing such a stir, we first need to look at the data, and more importantly, what those numbers actually reveal about the audience’s experience.
The Ratings
The film is currently experiencing one of the most dramatic “score splits” of the year. To make sense of the data, it’s helpful to understand how these platforms work:
● The Tomatometer (39%): This represents the percentage of professional critics who gave the film a positive review. A score this low suggests that many critics found the film’s structure or narrative choices “Rotten.”
● The Popcornmeter (97%): This is the audience score. A near-perfect rating indicates that almost every everyday moviegoer who saw the film enjoyed it, regardless of what the “experts” say.
● IMDb Rating (7.7/10): Unlike a percentage, this is a weighted average of user ratings. A 7.7 is considered a very strong score, placing it in the company of well-respected dramas and blockbusters.
What the Fans are Saying
Beyond the statistics, the written reviews offer a deeper look into the emotional impact the film is having on viewers. The audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many viewers praising the film’s immersive quality and the lead performance.
● The Emotional Connection: “I felt every emotion,” one 5-star reviewer noted. “Most amazing biopic ever. I cannot wait to see the second part.”
● The Lead Performance: Jaafar Jackson has been widely lauded for his portrayal of his uncle. One 4.5-star review claimed, “Most of the movie I really thought I was watching Michael. Jaafar definitely embodied his uncle in voice, dance moves, and mannerisms.”
● The Critiques: Despite the praise, some fans noted the absence of key figures like Diana Ross and Janet Jackson, leaving some feeling the narrative was incomplete.
“Don’t just watch it. Feel it: A film that doesn’t try to say everything but instead invites you to feel something real.” — IMDb Reviewer (10/10)
“Of course, number 1 is the music. King of Pop was honored in this biopic. It focused on his struggle to break away from Joe and not be known just as that little boy from the Jackson 5. Can’t wait until part 2.”— Rotten Tomatoes (5/5)
Insights from the Cast: Perspectives on the Process
To understand the creative vision behind the film, we look to the actors who brought these historical figures to life. Their insights reveal a production focused on the artistry of the “King of Pop” while navigating complex legal and narrative boundaries.
Colman Domingo (Joe Jackson)
Domingo emphasized that the film aims to showcase the development of Jackson’s musical genius rather than focusing solely on tabloid headlines. He noted, “Everyone thinks there’s one way to tell his story, and there isn’t.” This perspective explains why the film prioritizes the “artistic process” over controversial history.
Jaafar Jackson (Michael Jackson)
While the actor has kept a low profile in direct interviews, critics and fans alike have highlighted his extreme commitment to the role. His dedication to studying his uncle’s choreography and stage presence has been described by many as “perfection” and “uncanny,” a term used in film to describe a performance so accurate it almost feels like the real person.
KeiLyn Durrel Jones (Bill Bray)
Jones provided a rare look into the editing process, indicating that the film’s final act underwent significant changes. Notably, depictions of the 1993 allegations were reportedly removed due to specific legal clauses, which may explain why some viewers felt the story ended “abruptly” or felt “incomplete.”
Behind the Performance: A Q&A with Jaafar Jackson
To get a sense of how this massive reception feels for those involved, we look to the man at the center of it all. Following the film’s record-shattering opening, Jaafar Jackson sat down to discuss the film’s success.
Question: This movie has been such a record-shattering success. Did the response exceed your expectations?
Jaafar Jackson: “You don’t really think of the end result because I was so focused on what I was preparing to do and taking it a day at a time. But then you have those moments when you think, ‘Oh, how’s it going to really play once it’s released?’
And then, just within the first 24 hours, seeing all the social media posts and videos shared of people dancing in the theater and coming out in their outfits; I couldn’t have been happier to see the joy and love that the film brought to a lot of people. It definitely exceeded my expectations.”
The Family Connection: A Mixed Reception
While the film is a tribute to a family member, the reaction from the Jackson heirs has been nuanced.
Reports suggest a complex reception within the family circle. While Michael’s sons, Prince and Bigi, were seen supporting the project at premieres, sources indicate that Paris Jackson has reportedly distanced herself from the film. This internal divide mirrors the larger conversation surrounding the film’s portrayal of Michael’s private life versus his public persona.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, Michael seems to be a film made for the fans rather than the critics. While the professionals remain skeptical of the film’s structure and its “safe” handling of controversy, the public has spoken; it is a high-energy, emotional tribute that prioritizes the spirit of the performer, Micheal Jackson. With a “Part 2” already being discussed by fans, the momentum for this biopic shows no signs of slowing down.
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