Michael Jackson’s This Is It Parent Guide

This musical documentary’s title may have the sound of finality to it. But with a This Is It DVD release scheduled for next year—one that promises hours of additional footage—it is hard to believe this is the last we will see of Michael Jackson.

The production is the pet project of Director Kenny Ortega, whose movie credits also include the Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour and the High School Musical series. Ortega, who worked with Jackson on the Dangerous World Tour and HIStory World Tour, pulled the film together from footage shot during the rehearsals for the planned 2009 London concerts.

It’s a love fest to say the least, focusing on the performer’s attention to detail, professionalism and consideration of the dancers, musicians and other stagehands. But with all the negative press and controversies that have surrounded the singer’s death, a little loving won’t be lost on his fans.

The clips include Jackson’s announcement of his proposed tour on March 5, 2009 at The O2 arena, along with a few other street shots. Yet for the most part, the film takes place inside the studio where Jackson and Ortega were in the midst of orchestrating what surely would have been one of the biggest comebacks ever. (Tickets for the concerts sold out in hours.)

Mixed in with scenes of song rehearsals and dance steps are testimonials by those who worked with the star. From a cast of what appears to be hundreds, only a handful is chosen to perform as backup dancers. It is a life dream come true for many of them and a second chance for at least one man who finds himself struggling for direction in his life. Hopefully the concert’s cancelation hasn’t set him back again. Jackson also shares a moment with lead guitarist Orianthi Panagaris, encouraging her to enjoy the spotlight during her moment on stage with him.

Jackson’s fans will be treated to bits and pieces of many of his greatest hits, along with a taste of the complications and intricacies inherent in producing one of these extravaganzas. As well, they will get a glimpse of some of the sets and film shot especially for the in-production show. The video features some graveyard ghouls made up for a revamped version of Thriller and depictions of environmental destruction.

While several scenes include portrayals of Jackson’s infamous crotch-grabbing dance move, there is little other content concern for parents of younger teens who may be interested in this tribute. But don’t count on a riveting, controversial tell-all. The film might be called Michael Jackson’s This Is It but it is really Kenny Ortega’s homage to the King of Pop.

About author

Kerry Bennett

Kerry Bennett is interested in media from both a journalist and parent perspective. Along with authoring articles for several family-oriented publications, she has written for Parent Previews for over 15 years. As a parent herself, she believes parents play a powerful role in teaching media literacy in their homes.