Michael Jackson's biopic has received a mixed reaction due to its potential portrayal of the late King of Pop.
Titled "Michael," director Antonine Fuqua and his team said the Jackson-centered film will highlight his "human side and personal struggles." However, the public-including "Leaving Neverland" director Dan Reed-raised questions as to whether the film might only insist on Jackson's innocence through its "startlingly disingenuous" script.
"Michael" Attracts Condemnation Ahead of the Release
Jackson's family and estate have a direct connection to the upcoming biopic. John Branca, the "Smooth Criminal" singer's attorney and the co-executor of his estate, and co-executor John McClain serve as the film's producers.
Because of the set-up, it is highly unlikely the film will delve into Jackson's controversies, including the child sexual abuse allegations.
According to Reed, the script proved how the film would discredit Jackson's alleged victims, Wade Robson and James Safechuck.
Michael brought the Bad Tour to Madison Square Garden this week in March 1988; these were his first ever New York City solo performances. He performed “Thriller” sporting his trademark letterman jacket, first seen in the short film for the song. pic.twitter.com/XsnCfUHGzy
— Michael Jackson (@michaeljackson) March 7, 2024
"Jackson is only ever seen caring for children with childhood cancer, or dancing with a little girl in a wheelchair, or tucking up multiple little boys, mostly his nephews, at sleepovers," Reed said, per Variety. "It feels like the creators of the movie have been stuck in a room with John Branca and just told what to write."
Reed's 2019 documentary explored Robson and Safechuck's statements after they experienced abuse from Jackson. The two men were invited as children to stay with the singer at his California ranch and accompany him on tour.
He previously accused "Michael" of an attempt to "glorify a man who abused children."
Michael Jackson Biopic's Team Reportedly Puts Their Trust on Graham King
Amid the controversy, a spokesperson for the film issued a statement to Variety detailing how King "stepped out of the creative" process to retell Jackson's complicated life.
"As a filmmaker, I look to humanize but not sanitize and present the most compelling, unbiased story I can capture in a single feature film and let the audience decide how they feel after watching it. Michael clearly remains an impactful, culturally relevant artist with a life and legacy worth exploring," King said of how he made the film with the team.
"Michael" will be released in the U.S. on April 18, 2025.
READ MORE: Michael Jackson Shocker: King of Pop's Nephew Leaves Everyone Speechless in New Biopic
