Rick Nease / McClatchy Tribune
Wearing orange fitted pants and a silver metallic blazer, the King of Pop dances back into the hearts of fans one final time, while preparing for what should have been Michael Jackson̢۪s most epic musical tour.
Originally shot as footage for Michael Jackson’s personal library, “This Is Itâ€Â became a collection of memories depicting his final moments before his death in June 2009.
“This Is Itâ€Â shows audiences a glimpse of the final days in the life of Jackson. Not the Jackson surrounded by negative publicity and court cases, but rather the icon fans across the globe have known and loved for decades.
Surrounded by talented performers and under the direction of Kenny Ortega, Jackson emerges the true star with his legendary dance moves and famous vocals.
The film takes Jackson̢۪s best qualities and brings them to light. His passion for music and his ability to take the simplest movement and create an iconic dance move will live on to influence the entertainment industry for decades. Audiences hear the songs that elevated Jackson to a pop culture icon.
In just under two hours, “This Is Itâ€Â travels through some of the most influential songs and elements of Jackson’s 45-year music career. Under Ortega’s direction and using only hand-picked dancers and musicians, Jackson’s tour unfolds before audiences’ eyes.
Film components ranging from a re-created “Thrillerâ€Â set up to vintage black and white footage bring to life the vocals. Costume designers struggle to create a flamboyant, light-catching wardrobe typical to Jackson’s sense of style.
Surrounded by singers, dancers and backstage crew all at his beck and call, Jackson reveals a very down-to-earth and relatable personality. His interactions with the crew, back-up vocalists and dancers reveal a sense of respect and care for the individuals as well as for the art they create together.
On multiple occasions throughout the film Jackson emphatically exclaims, “This is it!â€Â More than just song lyrics, he repeats these words to explain what he believes his audience wants to hear, to describe a feeling or emotion he wishes to capture, or when discussing his love for the planet and belief in a need for environmental awareness. “This Is Itâ€Â explains Jackson’s outlook and need to express his views.
Despite Jackson̢۪s rehearsal attire ranging, from Ed Hardy track pants and an oversized jacket to flashy gold ankle length pants, a few signature accessories remain constant: his aviator sunglasses, which he wears religiously both indoors and outdoors, and also white socks with black loafers.
It̢۪s clear that Jackson̢۪s element is performing, as he effortlessly masks any strain or exhaustion from the long rehearsal hours. His dedication and passion is evident in even the tiniest elements of each piece of music.
Portraying only the best characteristics of Jackson, the film invokes memories of his life, his talent and his impact on the musical landscape.
More than just a movie about Michael Jackson, “This Is Itâ€Â truly captures the essence of an influential pop culture history and will forever be a monumental work in his honor.