"This is it," is approximately 70% rehearsal footage and 30% documentary. The documentary parts are scattered throughout the film, and includes background dancers and musicians talking about how privileged they felt to perform with Jackson. There is also some insight into the planning of the concert, with Kenny Ortega and other head honchos discussing the concept and plans for different sections of the show. At times, Ortega comes across as a bit of an attention seeker, and quite frankly, he didn't need to be in this movie as much as he was. But I'll give him credit, because I suspect that everyone will walk out of this saying "that concert would have been amazing."
The song selection was very good. I can't think of any major omissions off the top of my head. Each song is an amalgamation of different rehearsal days, but it all looks and sounds seamless with the exception of clothing changes. As for Michael, there are no major surprises in terms of his personality. He's definitely a perfectionist, which should surprise no one. His singing was top notch, although he lip-synced a few songs. His dancing wasn't very expansive, although there were a few moonwalks here and there. If you're looking for dancing similar to the Motown 25th anniversary performance, this isn't for you.
The person who will probably benefit most from "This is it" is Orianthi, who was the guitarist who played Eddie Van Halen's part in Beat It, and the guitar melody in Black Or White. And she was excellent.
If you're a massive Michael Jackson fan, you're going to love this. If you're not, there's no real need to see it, though I suspect your curiosity may get the better of you.




Recent Comments