Thousands of Michael Jackson fans flooded Berlin on Friday night for the international premiere of “Michael,” the highly anticipated biopic about the King of Pop. Many arrived dressed in military jackets and aviator sunglasses — paying tribute to some of the singer’s most iconic looks.
The film stars Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in the lead role. Jaafar was just 12 when his uncle died in 2009. To prepare for the performance, he immersed himself in archival footage while also drawing on personal memories.
“One of my favourites is when I first saw him on stage performing in New York for the first time, which was the best experience for me,” he told Reuters on the red carpet.
“He became Michael in the film”
The family’s reaction was telling. Jackie Jackson, who performed alongside his brother in the Jackson 5 and later pursued a solo career, said Jaafar’s portrayal was so convincing that he would sometimes forget he was watching his nephew on screen.
“He became Michael in the film,” Jackie said.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the movie traces Michael Jackson’s journey from lead singer of the Motown group Jackson 5 to global solo superstar. It highlights the era-defining hits — “Thriller,” “Beat It” — and the iconic outfits that came with them.
The film opens in theaters on April 24. Early projections suggest it could shatter records for a musical biopic. The current benchmark is $60.2 million for 2015’s “Straight Outta Compton” in U.S. and Canadian opening weekend sales.
Box Office Pro projects that “Michael” could surpass $80 million in its opening weekend. If those numbers hold, it would mark a significant moment for the genre.
What the film leaves out
The biopic does not address the child molestation allegations that shadowed parts of Jackson’s career. According to a source familiar with the production, any references to those accusations were removed after attorneys for his estate determined that a legal settlement with one accuser barred discussion of the claims in the film.
Jackson maintained his innocence throughout his life. He was acquitted in a 2005 criminal trial. After his death, additional civil claims were brought by other accusers, but he was never convicted in criminal court or found liable in a civil case.
When asked about the omission in Berlin, producer Graham King — whose credits include “Bohemian Rhapsody” — said he had spent years researching every aspect of Jackson’s life. He described the film as a “celebration story” and said he was happy to tell it that way.
