Review "This is It."

                                                             This is it

“This is it” is a documentary of sorts that follows Michael Jackson and his entire crew as they prepare for his final tour. The rehearsal and backstage footage was compiled into a film after Micheal's untimely death in 2009. The footage that was gathered consists of dancer selection, setting up the stages and special effects, band and dress rehearsals, and all of the many other things that go into putting together what was to be an enormous tour. Seven days before the tour was to kick off in London, Michael Jackson died suddenly at his home of cardiac arrest. This documentary is a warm tribute to his career and details the dedication he had to his music and his fans. It is presented beautifully and serves as a wonderful way for fans to experience the tour that he had planned for them. I would recommend watching this film to anyone who is a fan and for those who may not have been fans, it gives a wonderful overview of his musical catalogue from start to finish.

Although the movie documents many of the aspects that go into putting together such a huge show; Micheal's music and passion is really the main focus. From start to finish you can watch Michael perform nearly all of his biggest hits and fan favorites. He performs songs from his early career with his brothers, the Jackson 5, songs from his first solo album when he was just a teenager and of course his Beattle's record breaking hit, “Thriller.” While viewing Michael perfect his performances, we are reminded of just what an amazing career he had; his music spanning over three decades. The dedication he has to his fans is crystal clear when the documentary shows Michael going over and over the songs, but not just his performance. He is involved in every aspect of the arrangements, the special effects and the dancers. Many times during the film he comments to others that the show must be exactly what the audience wants it to be, exactly what they expect of him.

Another great thing about the way the movie is presented is that they pieced the footage together in exactly the order that the tour was intended to go. They included the video enhancements that we would have seen up on the huge screen if we had gone to the concert. Michael and his crew had filmed an entirely new miniature movie introduction for “Thriller” complete with new zombies and visual effects. He did the same for “Smooth Criminal” and even acted on a green screen so that he could be set into an old gangster movie from the 30's for a spectacular intro to the song. The best part about the footage was being able to hear and see him perform all of my favorite songs, and to see his just how much hard work he was still putting into his concert.

Some people may think that the release of the movie on DVD and in theatres so shortly after his tragic death was in poor taste and exhibited poor timing , given the immediate concerns over his estate , finances and custody of his children, as well as the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death. People may also take issue with Michael the individual. Some people don't believe it is right for him to be idolized due to the controversy that surrounded his personal life, especially in the last 10 years. Micheal's image and reputation was severely damaged by accusations relating to sexual abuse of a minor. However, I offer that the documentary does not delve into Micheal's personal issues at all. It neither declares guilt or innocence, it does not offer further information relating to those issues. The documentary seeks to focus on his hard work, dedication, and passion. His artistry. So if the task at hand is to judge the film and not the man in it, then these concerns are less than relevant to the documentary's review.

Michael Jackson had a tremendous career that began when he was only 5 years old. He gave so much to the music world and to his fans. In addition to being an extraordinary humanitarian and charitable soul, Michael was the King of Pop. This film focuses on his artistry, his passion and his career, as opposed to his public image and what was often a very public private life. It would seem that is what Michael Jackson always wanted.