Michael Jackson: This Is It

What other entertainer than Michael Jackson is interesting enough to pull off a concert film without even having a concert?

Yes, it would be more accurate to term this a "rehearsal film," but that makes it only slightly less compelling than if it had been the real thing.

Jackson's "This Is It," which I would assume was intended on being a making-of documentary to what would have been a dynamic, extraordinarily ambitious concert tour, becomes instead one of the last few images of Jackson before his death last June.

So instead of footage of a final production, we get the practice run-through instead, and are left to imagine what sorts of concerts Jackson would put on in what was intended on being both his big comeback and his last hurrah.

We see that Jackson is very involved in virtually all aspects of production. He sits in on dance rehearsals with the backup dancers, helps the musicians in their arrangements, and is meticulous on things like cues.

Mixed in between are walk-throughs of the performances, and you see video screens rolling in and out, and showing pre-taped segments that would tell a signature Jackson-type story to go along with the songs (there's a nifty one with Humphrey Bogart and Rita Hayworth for "Smooth Criminal").

Probably the most interesting sequence is during the "Thriller" number, when you see a new set of zombies onscreen in what was no doubt originally a 3D sequence. It is still fun in 2D, but the IMAX transfer must have been spectacular.

The film isn't meant to be a look at Jackson the man, but from the film he seemed personable and friendly if not approachable. On camera he was demanding of everyone, but always in a polite manner. He never raised his voice, swore or insulted anyone, and in delivering instruction he seemed careful not to offend either. Still, he was forceful and to the point.

DVD extras include additional footage (a nice inclusion, but the film's 111 minutes is plenty for me, an avowed Jackson fan), a cursory assortment of making-of featurettes that are frankly a little self-serving, and other featurettes on costuming, dancer auditions and memories of Michael.

Film: 4 Yaps Extras: 4 Yaps