Having covered the trial, the acquittal, the controversy surrounding the ‘King of Pop’ and of course the eventual death of Michael Jackson, I walked into the Theater in Hollywood unsure how I would react to ‘This is It’. We all knew that the two-week run of this production would attract millions around the globe and likely put quite the positive spin on a controversial man who faced some pretty serious allegations in recent years, but will it resurrect the image of this man?

Our viewing in Hollywood was just down the street from the red carpet affair at the new Nokia Theater in downtown Los Angeles. While the stars and special guests watched what would be MJ’s final act there, the domestic and foreign press packed into the historic Chinese Theater to get our first look at the one hour and fifty minute feature. From the outset you get the clear picture that Michael Jackson was in no way too weak to perform, as some have reported. He was thin, but had no trouble at all with his signature moves and many new ones. He was quick, agile and appeared at the top of his dancing and singing game. His voice struck me a strong and clear. Here is a video I shot on my iPhone right as we walked outside the premier and an interview with someone who had just seen it for the first time. http://www.kyte.tv/ch/329916-adamhousley/593841-mj-premier

In fact, Jackson at times looks stellar, as it seems he has a tough time keeping his feet still during the many hours of the rehearsals. Throughout the show, which runs like the making of a music video focusing on some of Jackson’s most famous songs, MJ seems very involved in the production and at times appears playful. However, no matter how involved in the production, or how amazing his moves, there is a glaring imperfection that shows on the face of Michael. At times the various colors of light in this film from the backstage footage and brightness from the stage lights illuminates a man obviously tormented. His face at times appears plastic, his nose surreal. While I wasn’t looking for it, it does take my attention away from his choreographic brilliance on a few short occasions, as I find myself staring in awe at close ups of MJ. It reminds me of my contact who told me the day after Jackson died that the coroners were shocked about the scarring they found on his face…and also that despite some media reports….Jackson’s internal organs were strong and he wasn’t weak and frail as some had suggested.

What surprised me the most though was the epic planned production for the London run of 50 shows. This was going to be quite a stage production, no just a concert. While watching ‘This is It’, you get a glimpse of the green-screen production that was planned for the shows, including an update to ‘Thriller’ which looked quite amazing.
Again, did we expect anything different? More to come on this throughout the day, what do you think? Do you want to see it, or have you?