Popcorn Panel: 'This Is It'

Get to the Theater

As the opening of "This Is It" clearly signifies, this film is "for the fans." "This Is It" is basically a concert event of Michael Jackson rehearsing for the tour he never got to have. With about 10 to 15 minutes of exception, the film shows the different version of Michael rehearsing his greatest hits, all compiled together into one fluid performance. "Thriller," "Beat It" and "Billie Jean" are all present and accounted for in the movie. These are rehearsals so obviously Michael is not always putting his all into every single song. Nevertheless, the icon goes out with a bang.

Matt Brassil,

Lockport resident

Get to the Theater

Michael Jackson's "This Is It" is a closer look into the life of Michael Jackson and the concerts he was supposed to put on before his death. I like Jackson's music, so throughout the movie all I could think about is how it is a shame nobody will ever get to see that concert. It looked like it would have been a great show. The documentary has many candid shots of Jackson talking to people, dancing and singing. If you are a fan of Jackson or his music then this is a must-see.

Kyle Larson,

Plainfield resident

Wait for the DVD

Michael Jackson's "This Is It" is a rushed and half-hearted entry that attempts to give fans one last glimpse of the proclaimed King of Pop. The movie provides very little insightful backstage footage (a necessary component to any great concert film) and is comprised mainly of redundant rehearsal takes. If you are a fan of Michael Jackson you will enjoy "This Is It." If you are not a fan, chances are this film will deter you. A historical documentary would have been a more thoughtful and introspective view on the late Michael Jackson. Instead, producers settled on this hurried concert film that instead tries to turn a profit on Jackson's legacy instead of honoring it.

Jeremy Pack,

Plainfield resident