Michael Jackson Biopic ‘Michael’ Receives Mixed Critical Reception

The big-budget Michael Jackson biopic Michael is getting a sour critical response ahead of its global weekend release. The musical stars Jaafar Jackson, the late singer’s nephew, in his film debut covering Jackson’s career from the Jackson 5 era through his early solo period. It currently holds a 27% on Rotten Tomatoes from 48 reviews. Deadline’s Pete Hammond praised Jaafar Jackson’s performance, writing the actor “sells this performance with all the right dance moves and sharp dramatic talent.” USA Today awarded three stars, calling Jaafar a “new star.” However, negative reviews dominated. RogerEbert.com gave one star, calling it a “plastic jukebox picture.” The BBC described it as “a bland and barely competent daytime TV movie.” IGN deemed it “really, really bad,” while The Guardian criticized its “endless smiley blandness.” Many reviewers noted the film avoids Jackson’s many controversies.