This is It: Michael Jackson's Last Curtain Call

I put on my Michael Jackson concert tee. Not a real vintage, for the prices had skyrocketed, but a knockoff of his 1988 tour, and equally as cool. I threw on a jean vest and littered it with pins and buttons I had collected since the 1980s. They featured a mishmash of events, MJ at Motown 25, The Jacksons album covers. And where else would I be headed to, but the long-awaited Michael Jackson "This Is It" movie at midnight on opening night.

I had expected quite a scene upon arriving at the movie theater, and had bought my tickets a month in advance. It was surprisingly quiet and calm, but this did nothing to deter the excitement of my friends and I in anticipation. Only two of us had had the privilege of seeing Michael Jackson in concert, in New York City in November of 2001, at what unfortunately turned out to be his last tour. In a sense, this really was "It" for us.

The raw footage and concert rehearsals were a bittersweet memory and a sad farewell to the singer, musician and artist we had all grown up to love. The film showed a unique take on Jackson's humble rehearsal style and shy wit. He frequently praised his dancers and musicians, at one point stating to his guitarist during her solo in Give in to Me, "This is your time to shine!" Clearly giving the fans what he knew they always loved, we had the opportunity to watch him practice Thriller, Bad, Smooth Criminal, and other vintage favorites. It was a new, exciting concept to see the singer who always seemed to perform so perfectly, "practice" before a show. I cannot recall seeing any footage of Jackson in this type of setting since his Behind the Scenes of Thriller Video from 1983.

This film showed a highly motivated, involved performer, who knew every line and key and was able to express exactly what he wanted. Jackson showed his appreciation each time a section of choreographed music, dance and scenery came together with success. He had stated at one point that all persons involved were family, and this was clear in the support shown in the film. Each person seemed responsible for cheering on the next, acting as their audience, and giving a smile. There was a an incredible energy that made the theater audience feel as if we were watching something personal and very special.

Some tears were shed when halfway through the "J5" sign appeared and Jackson began to croon top hits from his childhood. And watching him reconstruct his "Motown 25" act piecemeal brought shrieks of excitement from the lot of us. All in all, the film showed a cast eager and excited to work with such a genius, and a genius that seemed humbled to have the support and strength of such a talented, hardworking crew. During the filming, the word "Love" came from his mouth more than any other.

This world has a lost an artist that will never be replaced in our lifetime. Jackson's achievements and success, and his goodwill toward others will be remembered and revered. In death he has found renewed fame, and this footage proves that he still had so much to share. This film was an appropriate and touching goodbye to a much-beloved musician. Goodbye, Michael. We will all miss you.

Sources:
This Is It, dir. Kenny Ortega and Michael Jackson, perf. Michael Jackson, 2009.