Hopefully, a final chapter in MJ saga

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From the opening staccato pulse of Michael Jackson’s classic “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” you immediately remember why he was the King of Pop. “This Is It” is a look behind the curtain at the Wizard of Neverland.

Filmed during the rehearsals for his planned series of 50 final shows, “This Is It” offers a rare glimpse of the secretive star doing what he does best: entertaining. The film opens with a montage of interviews of prospective dancers. These were filmed prior to the auditions for Jackson’s show, and it is readily apparent that his influence knows no boundaries. There are candidates of every race, color and creed vying for arguably the most coveted dance spots on Earth. The competition is covered briefly, and the new dancers are brought into the fold.

Known for being hands on, Jackson constantly studies and has final say on all aspects of the show during the rehearsal and constructive portions of putting together this production. And this is not for ego’s sake; rather, it is simply because of his complete devotion to his fans.

One glaring issue throughout the entire film is the distraction posed by the sycophantic responses of so many of those around Jackson, the primary culprits being the dancers and director Kenny Ortega. While it is obvious that youngsters given this opportunity would be somewhat starstruck, Ortega shows a style of star handling born of years surrounded by big names and bowing to their every whim.

Jackson’s relationship with the band and backup singers is somewhat different. There is a touch of playfulness and comfort as Jackson puts them through the paces. Classics such as “Human Nature” and “Black or White” are putty in the hands of this ensemble, yet Jackson’s eye for detail never misses when extending a song or shortening it. His knowledge of how to move a crowd with a well-timed pause or to push a guitarist to the brink in order to bring out their best shows that he is undeniably a tremendous musical talent. And his banter with musical director Michael Bearden regarding sound selection for a synthesizer patch puts that human element on the King of Pop’s person. Bearden asks if Jackson “wants more booty on it.” A very timid MJ laughs, replying, “I like that, more booty.” Sadly, this was one of the film’s few poignant moments.

“This Is It” utilizes much of the film footage produced for the show. Classics such as “Smooth Criminal,” “Man in the Mirror” and “Thriller” are beneficiaries of sparkling new video introductions, including “Thriller’s” newly generated 3-D effects. Perhaps this showcases Jackson’s innovative drive better than anything else. Not content to rest on his laurels, he pushed the envelope of how to entertain from the very beginning of his unrivaled solo career. And even though, at times, the film felt as if it may have been rushed to market in order to recoup investor’s losses or to benefit from the man’s passing, it is a fitting final goodbye for an amazingly talented and equally troubled man. Our collective hope should be that all parties involved view the title as simple, yet final, instruction.

Rating: W W W