Synopsis

Many things about Michael Jackson’s passing have been tragic and devastating, but one of the most glaring is that he never got to perform the 50 sold-out London comeback concerts he was only weeks away from.

Luckily for us, there is a small compensation. The director and creative partner of that show, Kenny Ortega, was able to capture a huge deal of footage as Michael created, rehearsed and perfected what would have been one mind-blowing show. And that’s what we get with This Is It, a documentary that lovingly captures the creative process of one of music’s most indelible icons.

The film consists of Michael rehearsing some of his most famous songs cut in with some of the video and mechanics that would have made the shows so hugely spectacular. We also get to see the palpable excitement of those lucky enough to be chosen to be his backing dancers, musicians and singers as well as get a glimpse at the kind of perfectionism that got him to the heights he reached.

At 50 years old, Michael Jackson could still dance and sing as if not a day had passed since he changed the world of music and pop culture with Thriller. In the end, we think that is the most fitting tribute that could ever be given to a man who belonged, in the deepest sense, on stage. From almost the very beginning to the very end of his life, Michael Jackson was a true performer, entertainer and artist and this film invites you to sit back and let the King of Pop bring you his joyful music one last time.

Upsides:
- A loving and fitting tribute to one of the world’s most important and brilliant musicians.
- All that extraordinary music performed for us one last time by the King of Pop.

Downsides:
- the only downside is that the world never got to see the show in full as Michael would have wanted.