MICHAEL is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. /Courtesy Lions Gate
Lionsgate has released a new trailer for “Michael,” its long-anticipated biopic charting Jackson’s rise from his earliest days with the Jackson 5 to his emergence as a global phenomenon. The film seeks to balance the spectacle of his success with the complexity of the man behind the music.
Taking on the title role is Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew, in his first major film performance. The film is directed by Antoine Fuqua from a screenplay by John Logan.
Fuqua has expressed strong confidence in Jackson’s portrayal. “But most importantly, it’s Jaafar who embodies Michael,” Fuqua told People. “It goes beyond the physical resemblance. It’s Michael’s spirit that comes through in a magical way. You have to experience it to believe it.”
The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world./Courtesy Lions Gate
The production features a notable ensemble cast. Colman Domingo plays family patriarch Joe Jackson, alongside Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. Miles Teller portrays entertainment attorney John Branca, with Laura Harrier appearing as music executive Suzanne de Passe. Additional roles include Kat Graham as Diana Ross and Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy. Jackson’s siblings are portrayed by Jamal R. Henderson as Jermaine, Tre’ Horton as Marlon, Rhyan Hill as Tito, Joseph David-Jones as Jackie and Jessica Sula as La Toya.
According to the film’s official synopsis, “Michael” offers a cinematic portrait of one of the most influential artists in history, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead singer of the Jackson 5 to the creative force driven to become the biggest entertainer in the world. The film explores his life away from the stage while recreating some of the most iconic moments from his early solo career, placing audiences closer to Michael Jackson than ever before.
Produced with the support of the Jackson estate, “Michael” is a collaboration between Lionsgate and GK Films.
The film is scheduled to open in theaters April 24. View the trailer here.
