This Is It

This Is It (2009)
Directed by Kenny Ortega
Starring Michael Jackson

This film offers an upclose glimpse behind the scenes at MJ's rehearsals and preparation for a 50 date world tour that never happened due to his sudden tragic death. The film lifts the veil demonstrating what a hard working, uber-talented perfectionist this man was, on-top of his game at 50 years old. No joke, MJ moves, looks and acts like a man half his age.

We get treated to seeing Michael rehearse on stage, we watch him talk and work with dancers and musicians as he works out changes on the fly to the music and dance, perfecting the performance. It's great stuff. Watching him work is fascinating and this is a first, getting to see his talent 'behind the scenes' brings home how truly gifted he was. The film opens with his principle dancers talking to camera, talking about how they have been chosen for the tour; none of them can hold back the tears, its wonderful to see how much one person can inspire others.

Some additional footage of the creation of visual effects for the show shines light into the depth of resources needed to create this visual spectacle, trust me they spared NO expense. The film works best when we get to see MJ rehearse on stage, his mind working as he figures out his moves. Fifteen or so songs are performed in full in the film, its pretty much wall to wall music. I've always been a fan of MJ like most people but this film showed me something I hadn't seen, him working, thinking, processing, creating..

Its not a documentary per say, there is no story, MJ doesnt need one - he is the story. A must see DVD.