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I just returned home from seeing "This Is It" - the movie chronicling the rehearsal's that were leading up to the concert comeback of the greatest performer of all time, Michael Jackson. I arrived at the theater with my customary notepad in hand to take notes about the movie so I could write a review, usually the next day. This movie was a little different. As I stare at the blank pages of my notepad at 1:00 AM, I could probably write a book about what I just saw. It's a good thing because I couldn't take my eyes away from the screen for one minute to write anything down.
The movie features raw footage of rehearsals for MJ's London tour. Michael passed away before any of the performances took place. There have been many people who opposed this film - some said that it was exploiting a sickly Michael - some said that it was done for a big payday - some said that Michael was such a perfectionist that he wouldn't be happy that the film was being shown in it's raw state. Any or all of these things may be true, but I'm so happy it was released in spite of all of the opposition.
This movie allowed us to go into a place we have never seen before. Michael was involved in every single detail of the show. Lighting, choreography, musicians, filming, pyrotechnics, staging, everything! Michael knew what his vision was for the concert and would make sure everyone else knew too. He would make everyone do it over and over until it was done the way that he wanted and he did it with "love". Because of this, one thing can definitely be put to rest - Michael Jackson was not sick and was in great shape. A sick man couldn't have done what he did!
We got a chance to see his humorous side throughout the movie and the personal relationships he had with everyone affiliated with the show. We also saw the genius that Michael was. During a rehearsal for "Smooth Criminal", Michael wanted to change the direction he was standing in. The director asked him how would he know his cue since he would have his back to the screen? Michael answered, "I will feel it!" DAMN!
Even though Michael wasn't in "full Michael mode" due to the fact he was directing and performing, he was still great. He said he was holding back, but we didn't feel that way. His voice was flawless! He could still give you goose bumps with some of his notes. And the dancing!!!!! Michael came up with some new stuff that we had never seen before!!!!! AMAZING!!!!!!!
As the movie came to an end, my tears started flowing. I didn't want it to be over with. I guess at that moment - I knew that it was over. He is gone! Gone but not forgotten. This film was a great tribute to a great man! My description could never do the movie justice. This is a must see for the entire family!
"This Is It" has made the Dean's List - Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow - FOREVER!!!!!
"With the genius of a musician and a heart of a man with an incredible soul, Michael Jackson's This Is It displayed these qualities and more. There were times he directed his music to "simmer." There were times he encouraged his musicians and dancers to "increase the value" of their talent by performing a move a certain way. But the true talent is/was in the man himself. Watching him direct, perform, sing and dance simultaneously was truly a pleasure riddled in sadness. His greatness will continue to be felt. I can only imagine what he might have done with his music, his vision and his kindred spirit. I feel honored to have grown up with him!" - Cheryl McKeiver
"What he did on "Thriller" with videos in the 80's, would've been done AGAIN with these concerts" - Atu
"This Is It" was totally the MICHAEL JACKSON experience that I had hoped for. This movie, I believe, showed the real side of Michael outside of the interviews, the gossip, the news, etc. The movie actually showed his brilliance in music, his love for it, how much of a perfectionist he is, and why he is, undoubtedly...THE GREATEST ENTERTAINER THAT EVER LIVED. I loved the movie, the music, and the fact that at 50 years old...he still had "IT",/i> - Grand Tone
Write the Dean's List at: thedeanslist1@gmail.com
