There was a more positive take from the Hollywood Reporter’s David Rooney, external, who said nostalgic fans would find the film “a warm rush of transporting pleasure”.
“The film leaves itself open to accusations of making Michael a saint, which will not sit well with the cancel crowd,” he said.
“If you are unwilling to separate the art from the artist, this will not be a movie for you. But for lifelong fans who cherish the music, the movie delivers. Simply as a celebration of Jackson’s songs and stagecraft, it’s phenomenal.”
Another US critic, Variety’s Owen Gleiberman, external, was similarly enthusiastic. “The surprise of Michael is how well it plays, and what an engrossing middle-of-the-road biopic it is,” he said, praising its performances and cinematography.
Deadline’s Pete Hammond said, external the film “falls short of giving any new insights”, but said Jaafar Jackson “dazzles” in a film that fans would “eat up”.
“You are bound to leave this one dancing, and what is wrong with that?” he asked.
Jackson was known for worldwide hits such as Billie Jean, Beat It, Smooth Criminal, and Black or White, while 1982’s Thriller is the biggest-selling album of all time.