Before watching this movie, I was already a huge fan of Jackson. My mom grew up listening to him, so naturally I did too. I always thought he was so unique, from the way he looked and sang, to the things he liked. In the movie, Jackson is played by Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson’s nephew. Jaafar played Jackson perfectly. He nails Jackson’s iconic moves like the moonwalk, kicks and rapid spins. I think all of the actors portrayed their real-life counterpoint very well, and it really helped me connect with and understand Jackson’s life and personality.

I knew about Jackson, but I did not know how he grew up. In the movie, some scenes were very sensitive, especially those showing his father abusing and controlling him. Joe Jackson is played by Colman Domingo, and Domingo portrays the father’s intensity as a parent and manager. Jackson did not have a normal childhood like most 10-year-olds do. In the movie, he and his four brothers, Jermaine Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Marlon Jackson, practiced day and night to perfect their singing and dancing. They went school and immediately afterward attended gigs to get their name out in the world. Jackson wanted to be a normal kid but could not, and the movie shows how much he sacrificed for the world. The film does not show other Jackson siblings, including Rebbie Jackson, Randy Jackson and Janet Jackson.

Overall, I have nothing bad to say about this movie. After watching it, I wanted to go back and watch it over and over again. The music, production and visuals were amazing. Simply put, I do not think the movie could have been any better than it already was. The movie ends after Jackson focuses on his independent career during the “Bad,” so there will likely be a sequel showing his life in the late 80s, 90s and 2000s. I give this movie a 5/5 and highly recommend it. Even if you are not a big fan of Jackson, you probably will be after watching this movie.