This Is It ***

Michael Jackson’s This Is It is a strange experience. Given the entertainer’s untimely death earlier this year, the film stands as a last vestige of his performance—a capstone to his life he would unknowingly bequeath to the world. As a film, it is a combination of some documentary-style interviews and concert rehearsal footage, though the latter is more apt to describe the film’s feel, and it is the vast majority of what we see on screen. Because it is generally rehearsal footage from his last scheduled tour, the film lacks the punch of genuine insight into the man. It’s hard to complain, however, because it rarely fails to entertain.

Throughout the movie we see a strong and healthy Michael. He appears fit and much more active than most fifty year olds I know, which helps explain why his death was such a surprise to so many that were close to him. He is in top form vocally and physically; he is in control, but we never hear much more than a minor complaint or suggestion. More often than not, he retorts “this is why we rehearse,” revealing that his perfectionist personality is paved with soft-spoken poise.

The most satisfying sequence for me was the filming of the footage to be used during his performance of “Smooth Criminal.” Michael is integrated into some 1930s and 40s gangster films, running from the mob before jumping through a window. Its camp value is enough to give you a chuckle, but it's also very apropos—very smooth—and the editing of the sequence is marvelous, intercutting between the filming, the rehearsals, and what appears to be the finished product.

In the end, true Michael Jackson fans (and I cannot claim to be in their ranks) will love the film if only because it is layered with so many of his most treasured hits. For casual admirers and those interested in the human condition, it leaves some to be desired. But like I said, I can’t complain. As a love letter to Michael; the final goodbye, if you will, the film can be moving. It’s clearer than ever that the man was one of a kind—he did things his way—for better or for worse. And it’s a testament to him that when his director asks him how he will know the timing of a video cue he will not be able to see, Michael says, “I’ll just feel it.” And we believe him.