Michael Jackson Biopic 'Michael' Criticized as Uneasy, Evasive PR

Antoine Fuqua's biopic 'Michael' has been released, aiming to restore the late singer's legacy but instead drawing criticism for its evasive handling of child sexual abuse allegations. The film, written by John Logan, focuses on Jackson's music and career highlights while omitting any direct mention of the accusations. A clause in accuser Jordan Chandler's legal settlement forced $15 million in reshoots to remove references to early legal battles. The movie features Jaafar Jackson as Michael and Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, with prosthetics criticized as unconvincing. Audience reactions at a public screening included clapping and singing along to hits like 'Thriller,' but scenes of Jackson with children prompted uneasy silence. The film ends on Jackson's 1988 album 'Bad,' before his career was overshadowed by scandal in the 1990s. Critics note the film's sanitized portrayal makes Jackson appear 'like a bona fide creep' and that the estate's attempt to control the narrative backfired, as the unaddressed allegations linger over every scene.