Matluba Eshonkulova | The Chronicle
Movie Review
4 Stars
Michael, the long-awaited biopic about Michael Jackson, arrived with high expectations and a visually engaging tribute to his legacy on April 24, 2026. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson, the film follows Jackson’s rise from child star to global icon, highlighting both his talent and the pressures that shaped him.
The film’s strongest moments come from its performance sequences with Jaafar Jackson capturing Michael’s voice, movement, and presence with striking accuracy, especially in recreations of “Billie Jean” and “Thriller,” which feel immersive and energetic. These scenes give the movie a concert-like quality that many viewers found captivating.
The movie also touches on his childhood and relationship with father Joe Jackson, adding emotional depth, however, some transitions feel rushed, and character development is uneven. Additionally, the film leaves out many controversies, making it feel somewhat incomplete to viewers. Despite its pacing and at times, superficial storytelling, Michael succeeds as a powerful tribute—entertaining, emotional and memorable.
