Reflective Essay - Michael

I’ve been a huge fan of the Jackson Five, Michael Jackson, and the entire Jackson family for as long as I can remember. Their music has been woven through my childhood, my teens, and my adult life. I was twenty when Michael passed in 2009, and like so many others, I still remember exactly where I was when the news broke. I watched every tribute, interview, documentary, and the public memorial. I’ve listened to their music, watched their reality shows, and read their books. So walking into the cinema to watch Michael wasn’t just going to see a movie. It felt like returning to a story I’ve carried with me almost my whole life.

I saw the film on the Saturday of the ANZAC Day long weekend. The shopping centre wasclosed except for the cinema, which gave the whole morning a calm, almost sacred feeling.

I was the first person to walk into VMax Cinema 1. Originally, I had booked my usual back‑row seat, but while waiting outside, something made me change my mind. I wanted to be closer. I wanted to see it. So, I changed my seat to the front of the middle section — and it turned out to be perfect. No one else was in my row, or even section. Only a few people were scattered around the very back, and in the recliner seats in front. It really felt like I was getting a private screening.

The opening hit me like a wave. Before a single image appeared, the music started — Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’. I immediately felt like dancing. It was the perfect way to begin a film about someone whose music has inspired many people’s lives.

And then came twelve-year-old Juliano Valdi. This was his debut, and he was extraordinary. I knew Joe Jackson had been strict from watching TV movies, interviews and documentaries, but seeing it portrayed on the big screen was confronting. There was a moment where Joe harshly punished young Michael, and Juliano let out a piercing scream that shocked me so much I actually jumped and gasped. Sitting alone meant I didn’t have to hold anything in. I could react freely — and I did. I felt every emotion.

Juliano was born in 2014, five years after Michael Jackson passed, He has said that Michael is very special in his heart, and he is inspired by Michael’s work ethic, dance moves, and energy. It shows that his influence didn’t stay in one generation and even people who weren’t alive during Michael’s lifetime love him.

Juliano’s performance as young Michael was heartbreaking, tender, and unbelievably powerful for someone his age. His emotional intelligence, his vulnerability, and his courage made the movie’s early scenes unforgettable. If he’s this good now, imagine how amazing he will be as he gets older and more experience!

Jaafar Jackson did so much more than perform. His portrayal of his uncle was nothing short of incredible! This wasn’t an actor imitating a celebrity. This was a nephew honouring his uncle — the King of Pop and the greatest entertainer of all time. He has always focused on music, not acting, but this movie proved he had the talent all along. He carried the role with dignity, depth, and emotional truth. He understands the family, the legacy, the pressure, the pain , and the happiness in a way no outsider ever could.

He said the songs in the movie were a blend of his voice and Michael’s — and you truly can’t tell. It sounds like Michael. It feels like Michael. There were moments where it felt like he was right there in the room.

Jaafar hoped to achieve an authentic portrayal and for audiences to leave with a better understanding of the person behind the iconic persona, and in my opinion, he did it. I definitely understand Michael Jackson better now.

What struck me most wasn’t just the performances, but the humanity behind them. Jaafar, Juliano, Nia, Colman, the cast and the crew have handled the media, the pressure, and the fans with so much grace, humility, and warmth. Their personalities and work ethic shine through in every interview and on screen. You can tell they cared deeply about telling this story right.

The film ends in the 1988 Bad era, which leaves room for so much more to be explored. There are rumours of a part two, and I truly hope it happens. I would love to see Michael as a as a brother, father, uncle, and a family man — the regular side of him that the world rarely got to see.

I loved this movie. It was emotional, powerful, beautifully acted, and deeply respectful. If Jaafar, Juliano, or the team ever win awards for this, I’ll be so happy for them. They truly deserve it, and I can absolutely see that happening! Congratulations to the cast and crew. You honoured Michael Jackson with talent, truth, and heart.

As a long-time fan of the Jacksons — from the Jackson Five to Michael to 3T to Donte, and Jaafar — this film meant more to me than I can put into words.

I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Photo from Deadline