The long awaited Michael Jackson biopic Michael has officially landed and the early reaction is not what fans or the studio were hoping for. Debuting with a 27% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, the film is already shaping up to be one of the most divisive music biopics in recent memory.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson, Michael had all the ingredients for a massive hit. Instead, critics are calling it an ambitious but flawed attempt to capture one of the most complicated figures in music history.
A Performance That Stands Out
One thing nearly everyone agrees on is Jaafar Jackson’s performance. Stepping into the role of his uncle, Michael Jackson, he delivers a physically convincing portrayal that shines during the film’s musical moments.
From recreated performances to behind the scenes glimpses of Jackson’s rise, the film finds its footing when it leans into the music. Critics have praised the authenticity and energy of these sequences, with some calling them the highlight of the entire movie.
Michael Rotten Tomatoes
What Critics Are Saying
The overall tone from critics is mixed leaning negative, with many pointing to a film that never quite figures out what it wants to be.
Several reviews describe the movie as a fascinating mess, noting that it swings big but struggles to stay grounded. Others say it comes close to real self reflection, then pulls back, especially when dealing with the more controversial aspects of Jackson’s life.
There is a consistent theme in the criticism. The film appears hesitant to fully explore the darker or more complex chapters, which leaves the story feeling incomplete.
Where It Falls Apart
Despite strong visuals and moments of emotional weight, Michael runs into trouble with its structure and tone.
Critics point to an uneven narrative that jumps between celebration and avoidance, a reluctance to confront controversy head on, and a lack of clear identity between tribute and character study.
That tension ultimately holds the film back from delivering a definitive look at its subject.
Final Take
Michael is not a total miss, but it is far from the powerful, all encompassing biopic many expected. There is a compelling performance at its core and flashes of brilliance throughout, but they are buried inside a film that struggles to balance honesty with admiration.
For fans of Michael Jackson, there is still something to experience here. For critics, it is a reminder that telling the full story of a legend is never simple.
Right now, Michael lands as a high profile swing that does not fully connect, and audiences will ultimately decide if the music and performance are enough to carry it beyond the early reviews.
The post Michael Stumbles Out of the Gate With 27% Rotten Tomatoes Score appeared first on Coastal House Media.
