In May 2026, I paid my first ever visit to the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford to see “Michael” a 2026 film release which is described as a biopic of the life of musician Michael Jackson.
I am a big fan of his music and therefore I wanted to experience the film in the best possible surroundings and there are no more immersive ways to watch a film than on the big IMAX screen that is housed there.
The film starts with the Jackson brothers rehearsing for their father in their home. It shows how their father gets them their first gig and shows some of their early live performances including their big break when they got to meet Gladys Knight.
During the film, Joe Jackson, their father, is not portrayed in a good light. He comes across as a bully who purely sees his sons as a cash cow. The way he treated Michael in particular seemed quite brutal at times. One other aspect that develops throughout the film is the way his mother supports him and eventually learns how to stand up to his father. There is no doubt that Joe did play a major role in Michael and his brothers’ careers however, Michael in particular was extremely talented.
Luckily for Michael, he had Bill Bray, a man employed by his father from a young age, as his chief security guard. I was unaware of the close relationship between them prior to seeing the film. He was like a second father to Michael.
The main story comes to a close at the end of the Jacksons “Victory” tour in 1984. It was at this point that Michael makes it clear that he will be going solo from here on. A decision which was not received well by Joe. The film ends with a clip of Michael performing at Wembley as part of his “Bad” tour. I was lucky enough to see one of his shows there in 1988 and the scenes used did seem very realistic.
Whilst Latoya is shown a few times during the film, there is no reference to younger sister Janet at all.
Michael, as an adult is played by Jaafar Jackson, his nephew and son of brother Jermaine. He plays the role very well as does Juliano Valdi who plays the young Michael.
Even if you’re not a Jackson fan, I would recommend a viewing of the film just to fulfil any curiosity you may have. There are certain references to issues that would have an influence in his later life.
For example, when his hair caught fire during the Pepsi advert, he filmed, the damage it caused meant he had to take painkillers. The suggestion, in my eyes was that this was the start of a problem he had with prescription medication which played a significant part in his ultimate demise. The other one that stood out for me was the continuous reference to Peter Pan and Neverland. This goes some way towards explaining why the ranch he bought was named Neverland. Effectively, he was a child at heart and never had a proper childhood because he became so famous so early in his life.
There is definitely scope for a sequel. As the credits rolled, it said “His Story Continues” suggesting there will be a follow up. I very much hope there will be. I would give this film a rating of four out of five stars.