“Michael Jackson’s: This Is It” (Documentary/Musical: 1 hour, 52 minutes); Director: Kenny Ortega; Rated: PG (Thematic elements, including suggestive dancing)
Movie Review: During the spring of 2009, a 50-year-old Michael Jackson was preparing to go on tour. This documentary follows the rehearsals for Jackson’s big return to the stage with a compilation of interviews. Audiences watch the King of Pop dance, sing, direct and participate in the production and preparation of a major touring event. Viewers see auditions of dancers and the work of musicians, choreographers, visual effects staffers and other technical members of the crew. All are a treat to view.
For many, the thought of watching groups of people rehearse and perfect their craft may appear tedious, but “This Is It” is far from boring.
It contains moving music, great dance moves, and good insight into a legendary performer. Any aspect, none is boring.
The music is moving, the dancers are brilliantly agile, and some nifty visual effects create great entertainment. Even in practice, Jackson is a quality entertainer, giving his all for a great show.
Too bad Jackson did not realize this film would be his last time to show audiences he is still one of greatest and most gifted performers of his generation. Even more, Jackson, like any artist, is a perfectionist, trying to create the best artistry.
This is evident as Jackson chastises members on the set with his soft-spoken voice. Yet Jackson nicely says following the dressing down of a subordinate that his recommendation is with love. He then spells it out, “L-O-V-E,” indicating he does not mean to offend any staffer or other backstage member.
We see Jackson behave very youthful here, with no indication of any pain or aggravation. Of course, no one knows what footage was cut. Still, what audiences do observe — stay through the end of the credits for more — is worth it.
Grade: A- (Indeed, this is it!)
“More Than A Game” (Documentary: 1 hour, 45 minutes); Director: Kristopher Belman; Rated: PG (Brief language)
Movie Review: Five basketball players, LeBron James, Dru Joyce III, Romeo Travis, Sian Cotton, Willie McGee, and their coach Dru Joyce II are the subject of this documentary. Their basketball years together are chronicled from middle school to their last game together in high school.
The beginning is dreary and merely a means to announce how great thou art, a pure homage to LeBron James, who is clearly the more talented player of the fabulous five and a producer of this film.
Matters quickly picks up as the players encounter the prospect of losing after a long winning streak.
Then, viewers see how each young man handles stress, and why their lives at home may contribute to their ability to cope with success and failure.
Therefore, if you can make it through a less-interesting beginning, the end is better, but all is still only semi-interesting as the producers kept this documentary too monotonous. “More Than A Game” dribbles at its beginning, but gains a rebound for its latter half, even if a little too late.
Grade: C+ (It lacks bounce.)
Local News
‘This Is It’ true to its name
Movie reviews
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