It earned $2.2 million in just its first night in theaters. And has since grossed more than $100 million worldwide. From the creative side to the financial end, make no bones about it — Michael Jackson’s This Is It is a hit!
It’s been just over a week now since This Is It made its theatrical debut and critics and attendees alike are going giddy over it. Earlier reports had Jackson limping onto the rehearsal stage; a mere shadow of his former moonwalking self. But let me assure you the movie shows otherwise. Michael Jackson was a singing and dancing machine. He still had “it.” And even after his death it’s still electrifying to watch this tower of a talent work. But This Is It is not a concert film because there was no concert. It’s also not a complete documentary because there is no narrative. His death is never once mentioned so there is also no emotional farewell or finale. What This It It “is,” is a celebration of the iconic and freakishly talented superstar the world came to know and love as Michael Jackson. I found myself almost instantly engrossed in the film, fingers snapping and head bobbing while rocking along to all the hits that made Michael famous. I was mesmerized to see Michael the “perfectionist” paying attention to every little musical and choreographic detail so as to make sure his fans received nothing but the best. I was surprised to see glimpses of Michael as just a “regular guy” and often speaking in a richer, deeper voice than we’re used to hearing. And, I must admit, I was a bit saddened and teary eyed to be reminded of reality and the gigantic loss the world was dealt when Michael left us over the summer.
This Is It was originally scheduled for a limited 2 week run in theaters. But the film has been such an incredible success, Sony Pictures has already extended it through Thanksgiving with a DVD for the archives soon to follow. So whatever you do, make sure you see it, because This Is It really is “IT!”
