New in Cinema: The "King of Pop" on Screen: Is the Film "Michael" Too Polished?

The release of the film "Michael" presents a complex portrait of the "King of Pop," focusing on his early life and career up to the "Bad" era. Starring Jaafar Jackson, the pop icon's nephew, in his first major film role, the biopic aims to capture the essence of Michael Jackson's journey from his childhood in Indiana to his global superstardom.

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Er gehört zu den größten Musikstars aller Zeiten, sein Vermächtnis wird überschattet: Michael Jackson (1958-2009) war der «King of Pop», eines dieser Phänomene, die größer kaum sein konnten.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film delves into the intense pressures of Jackson's upbringing, particularly his relationship with his domineering father, Joseph Jackson, and his eventual retreat into the fantasy world of Neverland. It also revisits significant events like the 1984 Pepsi commercial accident that caused severe burns to his head, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of his fame.

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Was man zum Kinostart wissen muss.

However, the film's narrative intentionally stops short of addressing the most controversial aspects of Jackson's life: the child sexual abuse allegations that later overshadowed his legacy. Despite initial reports suggesting these accusations would be included, a legal stipulation discovered after filming prohibited any mention or portrayal of a plaintiff. This decision, while understandable from a legal standpoint, leaves a significant void in the film's portrayal of Jackson's life, prompting questions about the completeness of the narrative.

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Doch das Biopic «Michael», das von Jacksons Nachlass unterstützt wird, wirft auch Fragen auf.

From our perspective at Die Zeit, this omission is a critical point of discussion. While the film offers a visually rich and musically engaging tribute, its decision to sidestep the allegations raises concerns about sanitizing history. The "King of Pop" was not just a musical genius but also a figure embroiled in profound controversy. Acknowledging these complexities, even within the constraints of a biopic, is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of his life and impact. The film's focus on his early career, while valid, leaves audiences to grapple with the unresolved questions surrounding his later years, a narrative choice that may leave many unsatisfied.

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Was man zum Kinostart wissen muss.