Review | Michael Jaafar Jackson Delivers Impeccable Performance in 'Michael'
- Lagoa Nerd
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
review by Telma Souza| Admiradores da 7 arte
The biopic Michael explores the early career of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The film is so compelling that it warrants a detailed breakdown:
The Premiere: Michael hits theaters this week on April 24
The Cast:
The narrative begins with the rise of the Jackson 5, featuring Michael alongside his four older brothers. A standout in this segment is young actor Juliano Valdi, whose singing, dancing, and acting are nothing short of flawless.
Equally impressive is Colman Domingo, who portrays Joe Jackson with striking accuracy, capturing the volatile personality long documented by the media and Michael himself. While the film depicts Joe’s physical abuse and mistreatment of Michael, it also raises a complex question: was he projecting his own failed musical ambitions onto his children to ensure they escaped poverty?
The dynamic draws parallels to Abraham Quintanilla Jr. (Selena’s father), who similarly formed a band with his three children—albeit without the same level of violence. It leaves the audience wondering: are these fathers visionaries who recognize their children’s latent talent, or are they simply living vicariously through their offspring to secure a better life?
The Transformation:
Jaafar Jackson delivers a performance I can only define as impeccable. From the mannerisms and choreography to the vocals—fans are strongly encouraged to watch the subtitled version to fully appreciate the nuance. During the transition from child to adult Michael, Jaafar’s first line is jarring; closing my eyes, his tone is indistinguishable from his uncle’s. It was at that moment I knew the film would be an incredible, total commitment by his nephew.
The Story:
The film begins at the true beginning and concludes exactly where this first chapter should, leaving a strong impression that a "Phase Two" may be on the horizon. The film is heavily musical—I found myself singing along—and the only downside is the realization upon leaving the theater that one can no longer buy a ticket to see Michael live.
The script also addresses the onset of his nasal surgeries, the beginning of his vitiligo, and his lifelong fixation on a lost childhood. Michael spent his adulthood trying to reclaim a youth he never had, seeking a time that could never truly return.
The Family:
Notably, not all members of the Jackson family are featured. There is no mention of Janet Jackson; rumors suggest the singer declined involvement due to dissatisfaction with the film's approach and family disagreements, which she has addressed only through enigmatic messages. Other family members, however, do appear throughout the feature.
Costume Design:
Beyond Jaafar’s physical resemblance to his uncle, the production features impeccable costume design, likely utilizing several of the star’s original pieces. The attention to detail here is faultless.
Final Verdict:
A deeply nostalgic film for fans old and new—two hours that feel like ten minutes.
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