Michael producer Graham King recently shared insights on the upcoming biopic, 'Michael,' which delves into the life and career of the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film features a star-studded cast including Jafaar Jackson, Colman Domingo, Miles Teller, Nia Long, and Laura Harrier.
Jafaar Jackson, the real-life nephew of Michael Jackson, takes on the role of the music icon in the movie. In a conversation with Variety, King emphasized the team's commitment to presenting an unbiased portrayal of Jackson in the film. King stated that the goal was to humanize but not sanitize Jackson's story, acknowledging the complexities of his life while highlighting his enduring impact as an artist.
While addressing Jackson's complicated life and legacy, King mentioned that the film aimed to capture the most compelling and unbiased narrative possible, leaving the interpretation to the audience. However, the film's decision to maintain Jackson's innocence regarding the longstanding allegations of child molestation has sparked controversy, especially in light of the documentary series 'Leaving Neverland.'
'Michael' has chosen to align with the Jackson estate's stance on the allegations, opting not to condemn Jackson for the accusations brought forth in 'Leaving Neverland.' This decision has raised concerns among critics and audiences, as it implies a reluctance to address the serious allegations against the music icon.
Despite the controversy surrounding the handling of Jackson's allegations, 'Michael' is poised to generate significant discussion and debate upon its release. By offering a nuanced yet contentious perspective on Jackson's life, the film is likely to spark conversations about the complexities of separating an artist's work from their personal life.
As the anticipation for 'Michael' continues to build, audiences will have the opportunity to engage with a film that seeks to explore the multifaceted legacy of one of music's most iconic figures.