Michael Jackson Biopic Michael Unveils First Trailer and Poster
Following recent biopics like Elvis and A Complete Unknown, another major music biopic is set for release next year. This time, the film centers on the "King of Pop," Michael Jackson.
Michael, is scheduled to premiere in North America on April 24 next year. It is directed by Antoine Fuqua (The Equalizer franchise) and written by John Logan (Skyfall). Academy Award winner Dion Beebe (Memoirs of a Geisha) serves as the Director of Photography. Michael Jackson's nephew, Jaafar Jackson, and Juliano Krue Valdi will play the adult and young versions of Michael Jackson, respectively. The cast also includes:
Nia Long (NCIS: Los Angeles) as Michael Jackson's mother, Katherine Jackson.
Colman Domingo (Rustin) as his father, Joe Jackson.
Laura Harrier (Spider-Man: Homecoming) as television producer Suzanne de Passe.
Miles Teller (Top Gun: Maverick) as Michael Jackson's lawyer and manager, John Branca.
MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing 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, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.
The initial cut of the film was reportedly lengthy, running between three-and-a-half to four hours. Furthermore, reports earlier this year suggested that the film's final act, which covers the latter part of Michael Jackson's life involving the sexual abuse allegations, faced legal hurdles and required significant alteration, potentially necessitating a split release into two separate films. Deadline recently reported that Lionsgate Chairman Adam Fogelson disclosed they have not yet finalized whether the film will be split into two parts. However, the production team is focused on ensuring they have the capability to release a second film shortly after the first, should they decide to go that route.
Over the past few years, Hollywood has released several successful music biopics, and the lead actors have received significant acclaim:
Rami Malek won the Oscar for Best Actor for Bohemian Rhapsody (Freddie Mercury).
Taron Egerton won the Golden Globe for Best Actor for Rocketman (Elton John).
Austin Butler won the Golden Globe for Best Actor for Elvis (Elvis Presley).
Timothée Chalamet won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for A Complete Unknown (Bob Dylan).
It remains to be seen if Jaafar Jackson would be able to achieve similar recognition for his performance.
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Photo: Cineplex Pictures
Source: Cineplex Pictures, Deadline