THIS IS IT—Michael Jacksons Last (almost) Concert

  (G) I saw this film while flying from Hollywood, Florida to Orange County, California (from Hollywood to “near” Hollywood). Granted, this may not have been the optimum venue for the larger-than-life figure that was Michael Jackson, but still I enjoyed the movie and appreciated the opportunity to get right up in the screen with the King of Pop.

Naturally, this film does not have the finished quality that all of Michael’s previous works had, because quite frankly it was made after the fact of his death. Clearly, a video based upon the upcoming stage shows, was probably on the back burner when Jackson passed away. He seems to know that his every movement and comment would be scrutinized for signs of genius in years to come, but I don’t think that the film as is, would have garnered his full approval.  On the other hand, it may well be the best possible film under the circumstances. There is the “Save the Earth” moment that some are talking about, which does show that the King of Pop, knew how to use the technology that was available. There is great dancing and that is excellent singing, even as he protests that he is trying to save his voice for the real concerts. What we are left with is a giant (about two hours worth of) disclaimer...This is not as good as the This Is It Live concerts would have been. For my part, I already knew that and I watched the movie anyway. At thirty thousand feet, IT was better than reruns of old television shows and worth three binoculars.