by Cleo E. Brown

Friday afternoon I watched the final performances by Michael Jackson in the classic documentary of The King of Pop’s last rehearsals for the This Is It Concert Tour. As the film unfolded there were many thoughts running through my mind including how attractive he had become as a mature adult. Not only does the real life Michael Jackson ooze sex appeal as he sings and dances as well as coaches and mentors everyone involved in the production of the This Is It Tour, but he was also obviously quite mentally and physically fit at the time of his death.

I am struck by the fact that Michael Jackson grew up! In the footage to This Is It, which demonstrates many aspects of Michael Jackson’s personality, I am also struck by the professionalism with which Michael Jackson approaches his job. At first, at the movies’ opening, it would appear that the story of the Michael Jackson dancers involved in the production will make up for Jackson’s presence.

This substitution, however, does not occur as we are treated to Jackson’s renditions of such Michael Jackson hits as “Beat It”, “Man in the Mirror”, “Billie Jean”, “Thriller”, “I Can’t Stop Loving You”, “Shake Your Body” and many more.

Given the mystery surrounding Michael Jackson’s untimely passing, and the tragic circumstances of the performer’s life, it is devastating to watch such a talented and an engaging perfectionist knowing that he will entertain us no more. Given the impact of M.J. on so many of us, it seems trite to rate this outstanding film, as well as him, at all. Directed and Produced by Kenny Ortega , with Randy Phillips and Paul Congaware as Associate Producers, This Is It is a rare treat. The film’s editing, by the way, is excellent.

http://www.thisisit-movie.com/

About The Author: Cleo E. Brown has a Master’s Degree in Contemporary African-American History from The University of California at Davis in Davis, California. She also has a B.A. Minor Degree in Political-Science and has completed course work towards a Ph.D. in Education from The University of San Francisco in San Francisco, California. She is a Free Lance Writer and a Senior Editor at HHR.