First of all, I was surprised to find myself enjoying this movie very much. He was a legend during his time, and although I was very young, I was still able to sing some of his tracks by heart. Including songs by Jackson 5, despite me not being born yet.

It was admittedly what the critics would describe as a polished version of Michael. I perceived him as a genius introvert in musicality. That was how I saw him based on the movie. Not only that, but I also came to realise a few things.

• Jackson 5 was very successful. I knew they were famous, but before this, I did not fully comprehend the scale of their success. They were able to wiggle out of their lower socioeconomic status and upgrade their lives to stay at a posh residential space. They had a mansion with almost a zoo in it. Given the upgraded status, MJ was able to pursue a solo career as a global superstar.
• I had no idea MJ loves wild animals. He had an ilama, a snake (that he brought with him to record ‘We Are The World’), a chimpanzee and God knows what other animals.
• MJ talks like that in his daily life. I thought it was just a stage persona. This shows how accepting his family was of his unique personality. I’d probably be telling my son, ‘Can you speak up and talk properly? Why the sing-song tone?’
• Producing music and talent back then required a lot of grit and networking. Nowadays, if you know how to use social media right, you can become a global superstar with just a click of a button. It can be a one-man show. Back then, you had to meet and talk to specific people in the industry. You need a team of people and money to get to where you want to be.

The movie was just above 2 hours, and I did not even get up for a toilet break. The actor was convincing as Michael. Well, he was his nephew after all. The songs and performances in it were great too. I was tapping to the beat and mouthing the words of the songs. I hope it’ll make its way to Netflix soon. I want to watch it again.