The Wasteland Reviewer

Michael (2026) Written Review

How big of an undertaking is it to bring the life of Michael Jackson to life on screen? This man was the King of Pop. He is still one of (if not) THE greatest pop stars and performers in the history of music. This entertainment genius was bigger than anyone in the world before his life took some darker turns later in life. The fascinating life of Jackson spanned 50 years with plenty to sink your teeth into. Writer John Logan and director Antoine Fuqua certainly had plenty to explore in this massive project coming to theaters from Lionsgate. Music and dancing galore as well as a story about a son and his controlling father’s reach. 

How does Fuqua bring this massive figure to life on screen? First off, this film is over two hours but flies by with a healthy helping of montage and high energy filmmaking. The pacing is great even if some of the writing is lacking in depth (more on that later). The filmmaking might be described like they are shooting a music video but when you are capturing the life of the biggest pop star of all time with endless on-stage charisma and some of the most iconic music videos of all time…that feels fitting. The early years are injected with a vintage, home video type of texture that helps accentuate the period setting. The rest of the film is sleek and flashy in a bold kind of way. You certainly feel like you are watching a story that comes to life in the spotlight. The performance sequences in the film are electric and engrossing with few films matching Fuqua’s execution. Cinematographer Dion Beebe certainly shines too with some inspired work behind the camera. The costumes and production design capture the period and style of Jackson’s life quite well as his performances span the 70s into the 80s. There is a surprising amount of special effects especially with the stadium sequences and Bubbles the chimpanzee but they are well done. 

Does Logan script escape that biopic formula that hampers so many films like this? There are some inspired moments and elements but not too many. The reliance on montage (no matter how well done they are) makes the narrative feel truncated at times including big time jumps. There is just so much ground to cover in the film that is just over two hours (and the film still wraps up in the prime of Jackson’s career. Jackson’s creative process is interesting and engaging but still has those pesky “convenient” revelations. There is a decent amount of “lamp-shading” as well, especially with the heavy-handed allusions to Peter Pan and “Neverland”. The core story is quite effective though. We experience the rise of this amazing artist and the slow evolution of Jackson into the artist who became so iconic. Logan’s script does a great job of capturing the stunted nature of Jackson’s innocence as well as his disconnection to other people. Some of the best subtly is explored in the toxic and traumatic relationship between Michael and his father, Joseph Jackson. This is the core conflict of the film and makes for an excellent anchor to the film. These two characters get a lot of focus but most of the other characters are quite one dimensional. Overall, this is a film of broad strokes from a writing perspective which is frustrating when you have a man whose life was quite complex with plenty of layers. Jackson, in this film, lacks the more sexual or intimate elements of his life while also making him more of an isolated star in the world of music.

How does the cast fair in bringing Logan’s script to life? Jaafar Jackson will be the biggest point of conversation when it comes to Michael. Jackson’s nephew personifies his uncle quite well. The physicality is there with all the dancing and the performance elements. The sense of innocence and softer voice is there. A few standout moments where Jackson stands a little taller and more intense shine in the film as well. Young Juliano Valdi is incredible as the younger Michael. His performance on stage is quite impressive with how he embodies the presence of the real Michael. Colman Domingo stands out so well as the nefarious, abusive, and narcissistic Joseph Jackson. Paired with plenty of make-up, Domingo is able to deliver so much menace and his facial reactions are quite powerful. Nia Long does get a lot to work with as Michael’s mother, Katherine, but her smaller moments with Jackson are tender and sweet. She does get a couple of moments to stand out acting against Domingo as well. Miles Teller is there and embodies John Branca just fine (but not a lot to do). One of the great standouts is KeiLyn Durrel Jones who is a bit of a father-like presence for Michael throughout the film. There are a few fun cameos as notable figures even if they feel a bit distracting. 

Is Michael a strong biopic to break the mold? This is one that leans right into expectations and plays it real safe. Jackson’s life and work is synthesized down to a digestible, fun, and entertaining film. The music elements are impressive and there is plenty of energy to have. If you are looking for a true deep dive into the complex figure of Jackson, Michael is not interested in that. The film also ends well before some of the most controversial elements of Jackson’s life…but there just might be a sequel about that. You will have to see!