Bill Maher recently took a shot at the new Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, during his show. In a brief moment of levity, he joked, “The Michael Jackson movie opens today. Showings are 7, 9, and 11 — just like the victims.” This punchline echoes the troubling past surrounding the late King of Pop, who faced serious allegations of sexual abuse during his lifetime.
The film, directed by Antoine Fuqua, skips over the darker chapters of Jackson’s life, ending in 1988—just before the allegations started surfacing. Critics have called the movie a “puff piece.” For instance, The Daily Beast described it as omitting the harsher truths of Jackson’s story, while Esquire emphasized the importance of honesty in storytelling, arguing that the film’s approach is misleading.
Historical context helps shed light on why these omissions spark such strong reactions. When the allegations arose in the early ’90s, they not only impacted Jackson’s career but also shaped public perception. Jackson settled one lawsuit for millions but maintained his innocence throughout his life. His family has continued to defend his legacy, leading to a complex narrative that the biopic fails to capture.
This lack of depth resonates with audiences today. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, nearly 60% of Americans believe that celebrities should be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their fame. This sentiment suggests that viewers are increasingly less tolerant of sanitized portrayals that gloss over serious issues.
Michael stars Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, alongside a cast that includes Nia Long and Colman Domingo. While the film might draw fans in with its star power, the controversy surrounding its content may leave many feeling unsatisfied.
What are your thoughts on Michael? Does it do justice to Jackson’s complex life?
