The King of Pop is about to reclaim his throne on the big screen.
Lionsgate has released a new trailer for “Michael,” its highly anticipated biopic tracing Michael Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his ascent as a global superstar. The film aims to capture both the spectacle and the contradictions of the artist who came to be known as the King of Pop.
Stepping into the lead role is Jaafar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, in his first major film performance. The project is directed by Antoine Fuqua (“Training Day,” “The Equalizer”) from a screenplay by John Logan (“Gladiator,” “Rango”).
Fuqua has voiced strong confidence in his star’s portrayal. “But most importantly, it’s Jaafar who embodies Michael,” Fuqua told People. “It goes beyond the physical resemblance. It’s Michael’s spirit that comes through in a magical way. You have to experience it to believe it.”
The film features an ensemble cast featuring Colman Domingo as family patriarch Joe Jackson, Nia Long as matriarch Katherine Jackson, Miles Teller as entertainment lawyer John Branca and Laura Harrier as music producer Suzanne de Passe. It also includes Kat Graham as Diana Ross and Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy. Jackson’s siblings are portrayed by Jamal R. Henderson as Jermaine, Tre’ Horton as Marlon, Rhyan Hill as Tito, Joseph David-Jones as Jackie and Jessica Sula as La Toya.
“‘Michael’ is the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known,” the film’s official synopsis reads, adding that it “tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson 5, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.”
Produced with the support of the Jackson estate, “Michael” is a Lionsgate and GK Films production.
The film is set to open in theaters April 24.