Since the official trailer for Michael Jackson’s highly anticipated biopic has been released, fans have already predicted it will be one to watch out for. Expectations are high that the film will boost the international box office, especially with viewers eager to see Jaafar Jackson step into the role of his uncle, the legendary King of Pop.
The film is also set to explore controversial and lesser-known truths from MJ’s extraordinary career. Join us as we take a closer look at five major reasons fans are excited for the official Michael Jackson biopic.
5. MJ’s Unforgettable Stage Acts
The film is expected to recreate several of Michael Jackson’s most breathtaking performances throughout his career. Since his electrifying stage presence remains one of the biggest reasons he is still celebrated worldwide, the biopic will lean heavily into musical numbers, drama, and grand stage spectacles.
Recreating the exact energy of MJ’s live performances on the big screen won’t be easy, but the trailer promises the same intensity. Fans can likely expect iconic hits such as ‘Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough,’ ‘Beat It,’ ‘Thriller,’ and more.
Related: What’s The Reality Behind ‘King Of Pop’ Michael Jackson’s Mysterious Death?
4. Colman Domingo’s Portrayal Of Joe Jackson
Colman Domingo seems like the perfect choice to play Joe Jackson, and social media agrees. His performance is expected to bring emotional weight to the film, while also adding complexity to Michael’s early life story. He late superstar had hinted at experiencing both emotional and physical abuse from his father, though Joe later defended his actions by claiming it kept his children disciplined and off the streets.
The trailer portrays Joe as a powerful and complicated figure in Michael’s life. While Jaafar Jackson is undoubtedly the one to watch, Colman Domingo’s presence could be one of the film’s strongest supporting elements.
3. The Infamous Pepsi Burn
In 1984, Michael Jackson suffered a horrifying accident during the filming of a Pepsi commercial, receiving severe second- and third-degree burns to his face and scalp. The incident occurred when fireworks malfunctioned and went off earlier than expected, causing serious injuries. The trailer briefly teases this moment, showing the pop icon leaving the set with his head partially bandaged. The accident marked a turning point in Jackson’s life, triggering a difficult chapter that many believe contributed to his eventual decline.
Jackson later received a $1.5 million settlement from Pepsi, which he donated to the hospital where he was treated. Since the film aims to explore sensitive moments like this, fans are eager to see how honestly and carefully it portrays such incidents.
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2. The People Who Helped Him Become The King of Pop
The biopic will also spotlight the key figures who shaped Michael Jackson’s journey, including his family, friends, and collaborators. With Nia Long playing Katherine Jackson, the film will also feature major names such as John Branca (Jackson’s lawyer), Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, and his sister La Toya Jackson.
As the film explores Michael’s close relationships, multiple character arcs are expected to play an important role. While these connections are well known to longtime fans, they may offer a fresh perspective for viewers on how the King of Pop rose to stardom, while forming deep personal bonds along the way.
1. Jaafar Jackson Playing His Uncle
From his voice to his expressions and physical resemblance, Jaafar Jackson’s portrayal of his uncle looks strikingly convincing. His music background is the cherry on top, adding authenticity to his portrayal. He reportedly began pursuing music at a young age, following in Michael’s footsteps. This biopic will mark Jaafar Jackson’s acting debut, a role he landed after a two-year casting process. Director Antoine Fuqua has also shared that he was stunned by how closely Jaafar resembles Michael Jackson.
While many are praising his look and early performance glimpses, others remain skeptical about whether the young actor can fully capture MJ’s emotional depth and stage magnetism. Only time will tell if the film delivers justice to one of the most polarising pop culture icons in history.
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