Yesterday, I enjoyed the luxury of a nearly-empty Empire Cinema while I watched Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009). In cinemas for just two weeks, and produced almost inappropriately too soon after Michael Jackson's death (but just in time to capitalise on DVD sales of Christmas), it would be easy to view this documentary as an opportunist moneymaker. I wasn't really sure what to expect, but am pleased to report that I was absolutely blown away!
I have long been a Michael Jackson fan. I still maintain that his 1996 History tour was the best concert I have ever been to and the unfortunate yardstick against which I will measure every other show I see. At the time, and since then, I have wondered if even Michael Jackson himself could possibly top that event. This Is It chronicles three months of developing and rehearsing for the planned 50 farewell concerts at London's 02 Arena. As a musician, I was amazed at Jackson's hands-on approach in every area of development, including choreography, musical direction, video production, sound engineering, lighting and stage design, and even auditioning dancers. Surrounded by extremely talented musicians, dancers, and production crew, Jackson truly was a master of his craft and worked to make his vision come alive.
I've heard someone comment that they had no idea just how much work went into rehearsing and preparing for a concert; like sausage making, it's not always pretty and sometimes better to just enjoy the final product rather than consider what it took to get there. Whether you are a fan of Michael Jackson's music or not, I'm sure that anyone interested live concerts would be fascinated by the process undertaken in developing this one. It is truly sad that he died before being able to give the world one last opportunity to experience his talent and share in his dreams.
View the trailer here:
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
I haven't seen it yet - would love to before it's out of the theaters - but I wasn't sure if it would live up to the hype. I hoped it wasn't exploitation - but it sounds, from all reports, that it is good. Thanks for the review!
I've never been a huge fan of Michael Jackson's music, however, I have admired his talent and his genius. He is one of the best performers that has ever lived and for that I am respectful of him.
I will probably watch the movie when it comes out on DVD.
Kia ora Café Chick!
Seen the movie on one of its first screenings. Loved every minute - a long movie too - and I was, as you were, fascinated to see the effort and energy that went into the rehearsals, none the least of which was the activity, energy and patience displayed by M J, master performer, himself. Clearly his support staff loved him, and he loved them back.
Catchya later
I haven't seen it yet and not really sure I will. It's been playing here for I guess a week or so. I'm undecided about it as I was not one of Michael's biggest fans. BUT I will say that the review is appreciated and I'm glad that a fan likes it. I haven't really taken the time to read the reviews on it. But I am all for hearing his fans like it. Ok I'm rambling....off I go.
Post a Comment