This Is It (2009)

Verdict:  8/10

“If you enter this world knowing you are loved and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.”  

  --- Michael Jackson.

This Is It was actually the name of a planned series of 50 concerts to be held in London by the King of Pop, one of the greatest entertainers, Michael Jackson. But with the unfortunate death of him, the concerts were stalled. AEG Live were the concert promoters & in an attempt to salvage whatever they could, AEG sold over 100 hours of rehearsal footage to Columbia. This footage was actually intended for Michael's personal library & was never thought to be released as a film.

Directed by Kenny Ortega, who was the choreographer for the concert, This Is It is not a typical documentary film. If you are expecting any personal stories or facts about Michael, then forget about it. The film is more like a 'behind the scene' or 'making of' video that is typically released before a film or music video.

This Is It starts with the selection trials of the dancers for the concert. After that, the dance and instrument rehearsals of one song followed by another were shown. Also his solo rehearsals were present. Most of us have seen Michael's music videos & can instantly recognize one when we see them. A very interesting fact to know is that they were filming new videos for most of his hits including They Don't Really Care About Us, Smooth Criminal, Thriller, Earth Song. I absolutely loved the Smooth Criminal video where they mixed the beautiful & sexy Rita Hayworth (singing "Put the Blame on Mame" from Gilda), Humprey Bogart & Michael (Bogart is actually chasing Michael). There is a scene at the end of the film where all the people involved in the concert join their hands & Michael gives a message. A good one. The film ends with the song Heal the world.

This Is It is all about Michael the perfectionist. The time & incredible effort that goes into his performances & shows is unbelievable. Here we see a side of Michael that is not generally documented. His behaviour towards his co performers, his attitude & temperament are exemplary.

The film also shows the designing & the planned live effects on the show which were superb. If This Is It has gone live, the concert would have been, without a doubt, the greatest show on the planet. This Is It is a must watch for any person who likes Michael even a tiny bit.

After watching the film, I couldn't stop wondering what would have happened if Michael was alive. For a start, I wouldn't be writing this review. There would have been a revival of Michael's career. The supporting dancers & musicians would have got a big boost to their resumes. Orianthi Panagaris, the very talented lead guitarist would have been a super star. But all big WOULD HAVEs.

THIS IS IT.