Many films and documentaries have explored the extraordinary life of the legendary American singer known worldwide as the “King of Pop,” . From his unmatched musical success to his controversial personal life and final years, audiences have seen many sides of him before. But Michael takes viewers back to where it all began—his painful childhood and the making of a global icon.

A Childhood Filled with Talent and Trauma

The story opens in Indiana, where Joseph Jackson (Colman Domingo) dreams of creating a family music group called with his five sons. Ten-year-old Michael (Juliano Krue Valdi) becomes the lead singer due to his extraordinary voice and natural stage presence. However, behind the success lies a harsh reality. Joseph is shown as a strict and unforgiving father who punishes mistakes with physical beatings. Despite the emotional pain, the boys continue performing until the famous signs The Jackson 5, instantly recognizing Michael’s rare talent.

From Family Star to Global Superstar

As Michael grows older, Jaafar Jackson takes over the role and brilliantly portrays the rise of the young singer into an international sensation. The Jackson family moves from Indiana to a luxurious estate in California, where Michael’s unique personality begins to shine. Unlike his brothers, Michael feels more connected to animals than people, surrounding himself with creatures ranging from monkeys to giraffes. As his fame grows, he realizes his creative vision can only be achieved alone. He parts ways professionally with his father and appoints John Branca (Miles Teller) as his manager, beginning his journey as a solo artist.

A Captivating 129-Minute Experience

Even for longtime fans who already know much of Michael’s story, the film remains engaging throughout its 129-minute runtime. Writer John Logan keeps the narrative flowing, while director and cinematographer create a visually immersive experience. The movie beautifully captures Michael’s softer side—his compassion for sick children, his love for animals, his obsession with music, and his childlike joy while watching cartoons and films with his mother. The film also includes iconic performances of hits like and , reminding viewers why fans across the world adored him.

Where the Film Falls Short

Despite its strengths, the film avoids some major aspects of Michael’s life. One noticeable absence is the lack of meaningful focus on his sister. Another missed opportunity is Michael’s historic fight against racial barriers in the entertainment industry. The movie briefly shows the moment his music videos broke through on , which previously favored white artists. This was a landmark achievement, and it deserved greater emphasis. The film also avoids later controversies, as the story only covers the years 1966 to 1988, ending after the Bad World Tour. A closing note hints that future installments may continue his story.

Jaafar Jackson Shines Brightly

Making his acting debut, delivers an impressive performance. From the voice and expressions to the dancing and famous Moonwalk, he convincingly channels Michael’s spirit. Young actor Juliano Krue Valdi also deserves praise for portraying Michael’s early years with emotional depth. Colman Domingo gives a strong performance as the complicated father figure, while , , and Kendrick Sampson support the story effectively. Michael is an emotional and entertaining tribute that captures the pain, brilliance, and unstoppable rise of one of music’s greatest legends. While it avoids some difficult truths, it still offers a compelling look at the man behind the glove.