Michael (2026) Review: Jaafar Jackson IS the King of Pop
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’ (Courtesy of Lionsgate)
This was one of my most anticipated films of 2026, so there was a lot riding on this one for me when I got to the screening. I was both excited and nervous as Michael is one of the most ambitious music biopics in recent memory, and for the most part… it absolutely delivers on that promise. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film takes on the monumental task of capturing the life, legacy, and global impact of Michael Jackson, arguably the most iconic performer and pop star of all time. What could have easily felt like an impossible challenge instead becomes a surprisingly immersive and emotionally resonant experience.
At the center of it all is Jaafar Jackson in his first-ever acting role, and it’s hard to overstate just how impressive his performance is. This isn’t just a case of good casting because of family resemblance, Jaafar fully embodies Michael in a way that feels almost uncanny. From the vocal cadence to the physicality on stage, there are multiple moments where the line between performance and reality blurs. The musical sequences, in particular, are where the film truly comes alive, capturing the energy, precision, and cultural power that defined Michael Jackson’s career. What stands out just as much are the more personal moments the film highlights—his deep compassion for animals (yes, bubble is in here), the time he spent with children in hospitals, and his overarching goal of bringing people together through music. Seeing his creative process unfold feels like a genuine treat, offering insight into the passion behind the artistry. The film consistently reinforces the idea that he believed he could make a difference, and that sense of purpose resonates throughout.
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’ (Courtesy of Lionsgate)
Outside of Jaafar Jackson, there are several standout performances, including Juliano Valdi as a young Michael and Colman Domingo as his father, Joe Jackson. While the entire cast delivers strong work, these performances left the biggest impression on me. Domingo, in particular, brings out the controlling and often unsettling nature associated with Joe Jackson, adding a layer of tension that feels essential to the story. That said, this is one aspect of Michael’s life that could have benefited from even more depth and exploration.
Fuqua’s direction gives the film a sense of scale that matches its subject. The concert recreations feel massive, the quieter character moments are given room to breathe, and the pacing generally keeps the narrative moving without losing focus. There’s a clear effort to balance spectacle with introspection, allowing the audience to see both the global superstar and the human being behind the image.
That said, like many biopics, Michael occasionally struggles under the weight of its own scope. Covering such a vast and complex life inevitably leads to moments that feel condensed or glossed over. You might see a lot of people using the term “watered down” to describe the film and in a way, that is accurate. As stated above, I think the film could have benefited from extending the story of his home life, but also, this is one of those films that could have benefited from an extra thirty to forty-five-minute runtime instead of being just over two hours. There are a lot of musical sequences that I would have liked to see extended even, such as the “Thriller” sequence. It’s there, but it feels like they were in a bit of a rush to get to the next element in order to keep the audience focused. Certain transitions happen quickly, and some aspects of Jackson’s personal life could have used more depth. However, these issues don’t derail the overall experience, they simply highlight how much there is to explore when telling a story of this magnitude. Perhaps in the sequel (cause let’s face it, it’s coming), we will get some flashbacks that offer some insight into more of his personal life that wasn’t covered here.
Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in ‘Michael’ (Courtesy of Lionsgate)
What ultimately makes Michael work is its ability to remind audiences why Michael Jackson’s legacy continues to endure. The film doesn’t just revisit familiar milestones; it recreates the feeling of witnessing them. Whether it’s through electrifying performances or quieter, reflective scenes, there’s a consistent sense of reverence for the artistry that changed the music industry forever.
In the end, Michael stands as a powerful and entertaining tribute to a once-in-a-generation talent. If that, because in my eyes, there still is no talent like Michael Jackson. With a breakout performance from Jaafar Jackson and confident direction from Antoine Fuqua, the film succeeds in bringing the King of Pop back to life on the big screen. It’s sure to have fans tapping their feet along to the beats. It may not capture every detail, but it captures something just as important, the magic.
