Michael (2026)
Movie · 2026 · Music, Drama · 2h 8m · PG-13 · English
Curator score: 3.8/10 (1.5M ratings)
Tagline: Discover the making of a king.
The story of Michael Jackson, one of the most influential artists the world has ever known, and his life beyond the music. His journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world, highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career.
Ratings:
- Curator score: 3.8/10
- IMDb: 7.6/10
- Letterboxd: 3.61/5
- Rotten Tomatoes: 38%
- Metacritic: 39
- TMDB: 8.7/10
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Production: Lionsgate, GK Films, Optimum Productions
Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Juliano Krue Valdi, Miles Teller, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Kendrick Sampson, Joseph David-Jones, Rhyan Hill, Jamal Henderson, Trey Horton, Jessica Sula, Larenz Tate, Laura Harrier, Mike Myers, Nathaniel Logan McIntyre, Judah Edwards, Jayden Harville, Jaylen Hunter, Deon Cole
Curator Review
Verdict: While 'Michael' offers a glimpse into the life of the iconic artist, it struggles with the conventional biopic formula, leaving some viewers wanting more depth and introspection. The film showcases impressive performances and memorable musical moments, but may not fully satisfy those seeking a nuanced portrayal.
Best for: Fans of Michael Jackson; Musical enthusiasts; Those interested in celebrity biographies
Skip if: You dislike biopics; You're looking for an in-depth character study; You prefer films with strong narrative structure
Overview: The film 'Michael' attempts to capture the essence of one of music's greatest icons, but it often falls into the pitfalls of the biopic genre, prioritizing highlights over a cohesive narrative. The performances are commendable, particularly Jaafar Jackson's portrayal of his legendary uncle, which brings a sense of authenticity to the musical sequences. However, the film's structure is criticized for its reliance on time jumps and a lack of deeper exploration into Jackson's complex life and struggles.
Worth noting: Despite its shortcomings, 'Michael' does deliver on the spectacle of Jackson's iconic performances, making it a treat for fans who appreciate the music and the artistry. The film's nostalgic elements and vibrant musical numbers may resonate well with audiences looking for a celebration of Jackson's legacy, even if it doesn't delve as deeply as some might hope.
Top Letterboxd reviews:
- 𝐉: okay then the sequel better be named "Jackson"
- JoshuaCaine: Critics can suck my heehee
- Sydney🚀: Michael Jackson will return in Avengers: Doomsday
- EliTC: Who made the music for this it’s really good
- timtamtitus: one ticket ple-HEEHEE-ase
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Topics: Music, Drama, Biopic, Performance, Nostalgia, Icon, Celebrity Culture, Artistic Ambition
https://watchlist.tannermartz.com/apple/movie/michael/936075
Michael (2026)
Movie · 2026 · Music, Drama · 2h 8m · PG-13 · English
Curator score: 3.8/10 (1.5M ratings)
Discover the making of a king.
Overview The story of Michael Jackson, one of the most influential artists the world has ever known, and his life beyond the music. His journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world, highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career.
Ratings
Curator score: 3.8/10
IMDb: 7.6/10
Letterboxd: 3.61/5
Rotten Tomatoes: 38%
Metacritic: 39
TMDB: 8.7/10
Production Lionsgate, GK Films, Optimum Productions
Cast Jaafar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Nia Long, Juliano Krue Valdi, Miles Teller, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Kendrick Sampson, Joseph David-Jones, Rhyan Hill, Jamal Henderson, Trey Horton, Jessica Sula, Larenz Tate, Laura Harrier, Mike Myers, Nathaniel Logan McIntyre, Judah Edwards, Jayden Harville, Jaylen Hunter, Deon Cole
Curator Review
Verdict
While 'Michael' offers a glimpse into the life of the iconic artist, it struggles with the conventional biopic formula, leaving some viewers wanting more depth and introspection. The film showcases impressive performances and memorable musical moments, but may not fully satisfy those seeking a nuanced portrayal.
Best for
Fans of Michael Jackson
Musical enthusiasts
Those interested in celebrity biographies
Skip if
You dislike biopics
You're looking for an in-depth character study
You prefer films with strong narrative structure
Overview
The film 'Michael' attempts to capture the essence of one of music's greatest icons, but it often falls into the pitfalls of the biopic genre, prioritizing highlights over a cohesive narrative. The performances are commendable, particularly Jaafar Jackson's portrayal of his legendary uncle, which brings a sense of authenticity to the musical sequences. However, the film's structure is criticized for its reliance on time jumps and a lack of deeper exploration into Jackson's complex life and struggles.
Worth noting
Despite its shortcomings, 'Michael' does deliver on the spectacle of Jackson's iconic performances, making it a treat for fans who appreciate the music and the artistry. The film's nostalgic elements and vibrant musical numbers may resonate well with audiences looking for a celebration of Jackson's legacy, even if it doesn't delve as deeply as some might hope.
Top Letterboxd reviews
𝐉 (3★) · 41892 likes
okay then the sequel better be named "Jackson"
JoshuaCaine (5★) · 41636 likes
Critics can suck my heehee
Sydney🚀 (2★) · 32635 likes
Michael Jackson will return in Avengers: Doomsday
EliTC (3★) · 28185 likes
Who made the music for this it’s really good
timtamtitus (3.5★) · 22037 likes
one ticket ple-HEEHEE-ase
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Topics
Music, Drama, Biopic, Performance, Nostalgia, Icon, Celebrity Culture, Artistic Ambition
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