‘Michael’ biopic from Gen Z lens: Feels less like a film and more like a time machine

Once you are out of the theare, Michael feels less like a standard celebrity biopic and more like stepping into a cultural moment. Michael Jackson, as a name, has always existed with the music, the moonwalk, the controversies around him, but to be a little closer to his life felt completely different. 

There are artists whom people admire, and then there are artists who become part of a collective memory. Michael Jackson belonged to the latter category. Even people not born during the time know the choreography for his songs, the iconic silhouette, the diamond glove, and of course the music. That kind of impact can only be built on one thing: an undeniable presence. That is the USP of the biopic helmed by director Antoine Fuqua.

This film captures the curiosity many people still have about the King of Pop. It shows the making of Michael Jackson, rather than the mythology surrounding him, gently tracing his early years with emotional depth while only subtly hinting at his fame, controversies, or scrutiny. 

But the real magic of the film lies in Jaafar Jackson’s performance. He doesn’t imitate Michael; he channels him. The voice, the expressions, the stage presence, the dance moves, everything feels hauntingly accurate, almost as if Michael himself had returned to the stage one last time. In an interview, Jaafar revealed that he had access to Michael’s personal diaries, where he discovered how deeply Michael believed in affirmations and manifestation, something the film subtly threads into the narrative in a surprisingly moving way.

And then there’s Juliano Krue Valdi as young Michael, who brings an innocence and vulnerability to the role that instantly pulls you in. His performance reminds you that before the legend, before the sequined gloves and global fame, there was just a child trying to survive the weight of becoming Michael Jackson.
The film feels like a time capsule wrapped in emotion. For the older generations, it’s a chance to relive the era of MJ, the hysteria, the unmatched cultural impact of a star who once made the entire world stop and watch. And for the new generation, it’s a reminder that long before social media existed, Michael Jackson had the power to move millions of people across the world. 

This biopic reminds you that, behind all that, stardom is hard work and that what it means for art to move people genuinely. At its core, the film is for anyone who admires an artist for their work and nothing more. 

Image: Glen Wilson/Lionsgate

Also read: Becoming the King of Pop: Jaafar Jackson on the making of 'Michael'

Also read: Spotify reveals most streamed artists, songs, and albums of all time led by Taylor Swift, Bad Bunny, and The Weeknd