Michael Jackson’s Life Getting Movie Treatment

[ScreenOrigami]

What about the comments though? Unfortunately I've seen many vile ones, and not just from obsessed haters this time but from "general public", this news really brought the worst out of some of them. :/

Nah, those have been haters all along, they’re commenting only now, because it’s a huge headline. Everyone and their mom would go and watch that movie. Everyone and their mom also don’t read or post comments on Twitter. The general audience wants to love Michael Jackson, they’re not looking for reasons to hate him, they want to be entertained. They want two hours about the life of Michael Jackson. And Popcorn. opcorn:

That’s why some people do extreme mental gymnastics to somehow “separate the art from the person”, so that they may enjoy MJ’s work while believing the lies. If a movie allows them to reunite the person with the art, because it shows them the truth without sitting through documentaries or digging through court files, they’ll be open to it. That’s what I believe.

I just really can't see how this could have a good outcome. If there had been an intent to do justice to MJ it could have been done during the past 30 years. Think about it: US MSM heavily promoted LN while didn't write a word about the many inconsistencies in it. Why would all this change suddenly for the better?!

The MSM are all about making money. If a Hollywood biopic about MJ really hits the big screen, that’s where the money’s at. It’ll be an instant box office success, and everyone will want a piece of the cake. Red carpet. Exclusive interviews. Premiere seats. They may try to tear MJ down later on again, but it will be much more difficult, once the general public has seen the truth (which is hopefully what that movie – if it’s going to happen – would be about. ).

 

[ozemouze]

You completely misunderstood what I was trying to say.

In that case I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. Would you mind elaborating?

What's desperately needed IMO is a documentary setting the record straight finally about the allegations and other seemingly controversial issues, without leaving out the media's role because that's what made all this mess possible (it must be explained to the public why the truth is the exact opposite of what they've been reading for decades). I think many would listen if they were shown explanations finally.

After clearing these issues up anything can happen, even biopics , but until then it's just too risky and a call for negativity.

 

[SmoothCriminal1995]

I'm in two minds about this , I'd much rather see a Senna/Amy style documentary using unseen footage and audio of Michael pushing his own narrative. Both Amy and Senna were fascinating and were respectful to both icons.
It also bypasses the whole "actor problem", I mean who could play Michael? I can't think of anyone and I think it's a very fine line between respectful and parody in terms of an actor replicating Mike's appearance.

Then on the other hand, if John Logan writes the script, I would be very interested because he is extremely talented. He has wrote some of my favourite movies, Skyfall, Any Given Sunday and Gladiator

 

[CherubimII]

No actor could capture the MAGIC, of Michael Jackson; but if the actor is good maybe he can make us smile.
I, for one, am looking forward to hearlng Michael Jackson's music blasting from the big screen in THX sound. :listeningtomusic

 

[HappyLeeHL]

2) MJ is way too special, no one could play him in a credible way without his aura. Anyone would pale in comparison and look like a cheap substitute at best, parody at worst. Only MJ could play MJ.

Fully agree. I'd say the same about the MJ musical.

I'd like to see more the REAL Michael Jackson in concerts, music videos, etc.

Bohemian Rhapsody to me is a good movie in general, but I hate the acting because the real Freddie Mercury is way better. I have no idea how it got the Best Actor.

 

[ozemouze]

I'd much rather see a Senna/Amy style documentary using unseen footage and audio of Michael pushing his own narrative.

I agree. The reason I'm convinced that would work is that I've seen it working - with Razorfist. He convinced a lot of people with his rebuttal videos about MJ's innocence, just by recollecting the events. Now these people aren't MJ fans at all (they are gamers, rock fans etc.) who wouldn't care about the case otherwise but they were willing to listen to Razor as they follow him because they think he brings up interesting topics.

These people now are 100% convinced of MJ's innocence, they even turn up on social media debates fighting for MJ with total confidence (obviously that's not their main concern but if they run into the topic they contribute). Plus they freely appreciate MJ's work here and there (again, these people aren't even fans of the genre but they're ready to recognize him). And they're doing all this with total confidence, without the slightest doubt because they know the truth and can't be swayed by rumours anymore (I actually envy them because they are able to do the right thing - without the emotional burden the fans have to deal with as well).

Now imagine if similar thing was done in a form of a documentary series, by professionals, on a worldwide platform!

Part of the public now is genuinely in doubt because of LN, they aren't haters just confused by a legitimely looking "documentary" by "respectable" HBO. Most of them would be relieved to learn that MJ was innocent all along and would happily enjoy his music again - something they now feel wouldn't be appropriate. But despite the confusion I think many feel something's not right and would be more than willing to listen to another narrative that explains the gaps. After learning the truth I'm quite sure they would become as confident and vocal in supporting MJ as Razor's otherwise neutral listeners.

If there's indeed any chance now for a platform presenting MJ's side at last, please be it a real documentary!

 

[Doggone]

I’m giving it a chance. As long as they put every fact in it. And I’m afraid they will only tell half of the story when it comes to thise accusations. They should explain Michael’s side of the story too. Like what he tried to do, the advice his lawyers gave him, what Michael’s motives were to help the children in need, etc, etc. This could be a good chance to show how Michael lived, how he was thinking, what his norms and values were, what he wanted to do for the planet, etc etc. This could actually be a really good chance to counter every lie that has been told about the King.

 

[DifferentKindOfLady]

This only my opinion: I think there are already to much stuff about Michael. They are always putting his life on the TV, everywhere. I don't know what would Michael think of this, but we know already so much about his life and career. I think if Michael saw that movie they are planning to do, he wouldn't like to see some private aspects of his life portraid in a movie, like the trial, the 1993 period. But as I said this is only my modest opinion.

 

[IMWhizzle]

If this is true, the estate has a chance to manage this well and make sure that this movie is all about the facts. I hope that they will finally use Michaels digitally scanned face from the “Ghosts” project, so they can digitally “animate” Michael. Just like the technology used on the soon to be released “Irishman” movie on Netflix.

 

[Nite Line]

I wonder what the title of the movie will be. Queen's biopic was named 'Bohemian Rapsody' after Queen's biggest hit of the same name. MJ's biopic will probably be titled 'Thriller' after the best selling album and I think that will be a very unoriginal title.

 

[nextbigthing56]

Michael Jackson: Music and Me I think would be a cool name for the movie.

 

[Snowbunny Sorcerer]

Hope they don't get a white actor to play him, that's my biggest fear.

I'm a bit unsure as to how they are going to capture his whole life in one movie, they'd need about 5 your six different actors for that. At least, they have the Jacksons: American Dream (the greatest portrayal of an icon imho) as a template.

 

[Paris78]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="de"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Judd, your obsession with my uncle is Dan Reed scary. At first I thought you were just being paid to be the ultimate troll. Now I see you have a true sickness. Your proud ignorance to the facts and unwillingness to listen to the truth speaks volumes. Yet you protect your friends. <a href="https://t.co/1KuFfz9o8p">https://t.co/1KuFfz9o8p</a></p>&mdash; Taj Jackson (@tajjackson3) <a href="https://twitter.com/tajjackson3/status/1198062915179274241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23. November 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="de"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Don’t know why Judd’s so triggered. All this self righteousness behavior and talk. He doesn’t even know who or what he is talking about. He’s trying too hard to prove a point and is just proving his ignorance. I actually liked some of his movies but now that’s spoiled too. <a href="https://t.co/FbE2uqmCdc">https://t.co/FbE2uqmCdc</a></p>&mdash; Taj Jackson (@tajjackson3) <a href="https://twitter.com/tajjackson3/status/1198156322400653314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">23. November 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[wednesday]

And please - find an actor with a similar natural VOICE who doesn't try to sound like Michael, because that alone will make the portrayal seem like a parody. I wish for this to be a SERIOUS look at Michael and his life.

 

[Hulkamaniac]

Bohemian Rhapsody was a mediocre film imo. I enjoy watching Queen Live in Budapest Blu ray much more! Come on Estate, if you want money just release the Bad Tour on film.

 

[ChrisC]

Yeah I also didn't think Bohemian Rhapsody was all that good.

This news just fills me with anxiety.

 

[ScreenOrigami]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&#128680;RUMOR: Lady Gaga will play Michael Jackson's award in a new movie about Michael Jackson from the same producer as &quot;Bohemian Rhapsody&quot;. <a href="https://t.co/yBvkE0EjGw">pic.twitter.com/yBvkE0EjGw</a></p>&mdash; &#120053;&#120056;&#120063;&#120046; &#120054;&#120046;,I'M BAD (@applexead) <a href="https://twitter.com/applexead/status/1198637208837771264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

:hysterical:

 

[8701girl]

how the hell canm she play an award? wtf?
:rollin:

 

[ScreenOrigami]

Just a few more tweets that show that even though the movie is still just a rumor, it changes the way MJ is depicted in the media worldwide. Almost all of them are choosing very decent photos of him. I’m not cherry picking here, these are random tweets I found by a quick search for “michael jackson”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">Michael Jackson tendrá su película musical desarrollada por el creador de «Bohemian Rhapsody» <a href="https://t.co/aTqCukv1hK">https://t.co/aTqCukv1hK</a></p>&mdash; &#9654;&#65039; Play Cine (@abc_PlayCine) <a href="https://twitter.com/abc_PlayCine/status/1198906677271158784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">Michael Jackson tendrá su película musical del creador de &quot;Bohemian Rhapsody&quot; <a href="https://t.co/3jl8ufl3uR">https://t.co/3jl8ufl3uR</a></p>&mdash; Nadia Servian (@Nadia_Servian) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nadia_Servian/status/1198909613917245441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="in" dir="ltr">Film Biografi Michael Jackson Sedang Digarap, Lho! <a href="https://t.co/F8SGc5JUIR">https://t.co/F8SGc5JUIR</a></p>&mdash; Urbanasia (@urbanasiacom) <a href="https://twitter.com/urbanasiacom/status/1198904249498902528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">Michael Jackson tendrá su película musical del creador de &quot;Bohemian Rhapsody&quot; <a href="https://t.co/BvxtSz0d8I">https://t.co/BvxtSz0d8I</a> <a href="https://t.co/xk4goqOoZ4">pic.twitter.com/xk4goqOoZ4</a></p>&mdash; VPItv (@VPITV) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPITV/status/1198904158910402560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="fr" dir="ltr">Le producteur de « Bohemian Rhapsody » prêt à adapter la vie de Michael Jackson<a href="https://t.co/3fPHlCaNcr">https://t.co/3fPHlCaNcr</a> <a href="https://t.co/QCcxqMntqF">pic.twitter.com/QCcxqMntqF</a></p>&mdash; Rolling Stone France (@RollingStoneFra) <a href="https://twitter.com/RollingStoneFra/status/1198896608261394433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

That’s a very positive change.

 

[ozemouze]

Just a few more tweets that show that even though the movie is still just a rumor, it changes the way MJ is depicted in the media worldwide. Almost all of them are choosing very decent photos of him. I’m not cherry picking here, these are random tweets I found by a quick search for “michael jackson”.

That's great, thanks for sharing them! None of them is form the US though, unfortunately.

 

[DifferentKindOfLady]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&#55357;&#57000;RUMOR: Lady Gaga will play Michael Jackson's award in a new movie about Michael Jackson from the same producer as "Bohemian Rhapsody". <a href="https://t.co/yBvkE0EjGw">pic.twitter.com/yBvkE0EjGw</a></p>&#8212; &#55349;&#56565;&#55349;&#56568;&#55349;&#56575;&#55349;&#56558; &#55349;&#56566;&#55349;&#56558;,I'M BAD (@applexead) <a href="https://twitter.com/applexead/status/1198637208837771264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

:hysterical:

Play an award? I don´t understand.

 

[ScreenOrigami]

That's great, thanks for sharing them! None of them is form the US though, unfortunately.

You&#8217;re right. I&#8217;ll look for some US ones tomorrow, when the AMA Taylor Swift frenzy has calmed down. Her time in the spotlight is currently drowning out everything else with Michael&#8217;s name in it.

 

[ScreenOrigami]

Play an award? I don´t understand.

It&#8217;s a joke. Her costume looks like the awards that Michael is holding in the picture.

 

[Galactus123]

If this happens I hope that Estate doesn't let them do what they want. The movie needs to be good.

 

[DifferentKindOfLady]

It&#8217;s a joke. Her costume looks like the awards that Michael is holding in the picture.

Okay LOL
Looking from that perspective she really looks like an award

 

[Paris78]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="de"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Give this man ONE good biopic, please. Make sure it’s FIRE. <a href="https://t.co/B0Cim5K7Pr">https://t.co/B0Cim5K7Pr</a></p>&mdash; Iman Crosson (@Alphacat) <a href="https://twitter.com/Alphacat/status/1197950068306759685?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">22. November 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[travis3000]

A few thoughts:

-The estate was smart to use the Bohemian Rhapsody producer , not only is BP the #1 best grossing biopic of all time ($900 million) , it was very well received. The vast majority of people really liked it and it spun off MILLIONS of record sales and downloads for Queen. Their albums are still charting around the world some 12 months later. In fact the Queen catalogue has sold close to 15 million additional albums worldwide since this movie came out.

-Many fans think now is not a good time given the legal proceedings and controversy with LN. However..... it's important to note that while this deal has indeed been signed, its at the very beginning stages. There is no storyboard, no actors casted, no filming, no marketing plan, no release date. I am told this thing will likely not come out until 2022 at the earliest but more likely in 2023. So plenty of time.

-This is a VERY challenging movie to make. Michael Jackson is/was the most famous entertainer on the planet with dozens of top 10 hits, multiple milestone moments in his 40 year career, personal controversies, accusations, scandals, marriages, kids, etc. How ANYONE plans to cram that into a 2 to 2.5 hour movie is beyond me. How does one balance the milestones with the scandals? It's a very slippery slope and everyone will have different opinions.

-Expanding on my last point, MJ's fanbase is huge. Millions of people in hundreds of countries. Most of the hardcore base are very picky and critical....they all have a very special and unique relationship with Michael. They will be the films biggest critics without a doubt. Im worried about self sabotage. How do we balance the views of the fan base (which is critical for success) with the mainstream and the highly critical media crowd. Making everyone happy will be virtually impossible

-With that said, I am excited about a biopic for MJ. But I am also worried. So many things could go wrong here.... but there is a chance that this could be a massive success , attracting millions of new fans, and create a chart/sales surge on top of it. The estate better be on top of their game. It's very important to balance commercial appeal with a solid narrative. The question remains....what will that narrative be. The difference between the METOO media narrative (MJ is a dirty pedophile that should be forgotten and never celebrated) VS the fan base narrative (MJ was a misunderstood musical genius who was innocent of any wrongdoings). That's a 180 degree viewpoint. Good luck trying to make everyone happy.

 

[Hulkamaniac]

So just because Bohemian Rhapsody is overrated means it's good?

 

[travis3000]

So just because Bohemian Rhapsody is overrated means it's good?

Many people have that opinion of Thriller.

The beauty thing about opinions, is that everyone has one.

My mind however doesn't really focus on dissecting the opinions of 7 billion individual people on this earth , I focus on stats and history. And statistically Bohemian Rhapsody is the BIGGEST grossing biopic ever. Audiences overwhelmingly loved it (yes Im well aware that there are some people who didn't like it). However....the movie surged the popularity and awareness of Queen and skyrocketed their sales. That's it's history. When you talk about it on the street the general response is "great movie".

So I am optimistic that the same can be done for MJ. It will be much more complicated that's for sure, but with the right plan and execution it's doable.

 

[terrell]

Many people have that opinion of Thriller.

The beauty thing about opinions, is that everyone has one.

My mind however doesn't really focus on dissecting the opinions of 7 billion individual people on this earth , I focus on stats and history. And statistically Bohemian Rhapsody is the BIGGEST grossing biopic ever. Audiences overwhelmingly loved it (yes Im well aware that there are some people who didn't like it). However....the movie surged the popularity and awareness of Queen and skyrocketed their sales. That's it's history. When you talk about it on the street the general response is "great movie".

So I am optimistic that the same can be done for MJ. It will be much more complicated that's for sure, but with the right plan and execution it's doable.

I do not know too many people who think thriller is overrated (even MJ haters give Thriller props). Thriller being considered "great" is almost universal.