Critics Pan Michael, But Jaafar Jackson Steals The Show

So, there’s a new Michael Jackson movie coming out—called, wait for it, Michael. You’d think a biopic about the King of Pop would automatically have people talking, but what’s interesting here isn’t just the subject matter—it’s the split between how much critics seem to hate the film and how much they love Michael’s real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson, in the lead role. Let’s break down what’s going on with this movie and why the conversation online is actually pretty entertaining.

Critics Are Not Feeling This One

First things first: critics have come down hard on Michael. The early Rotten Tomatoes score is sitting at a painful 30%—that’s from about 60 critic reviews already. Clearly, this isn’t some minor rift or a few grumps dragging down the average. I would not bet on this one getting showered with Oscars.

So what’s bothering people? Here’s the gist:

• Too Positive for Its Own Good: The big complaint is that Michael totally glosses over the more complicated—and let's face it, controversial—parts of Jackson’s life. Instead, it acts like a super-glossy celebration, steering clear of any dark patches.
• Shallow Storytelling: Several reviewers mention it’s less of a biography and more of a highlight reel, packing in the iconic music videos and dance moments, but not much actual storytelling or depth. Think: impersonator show with a movie budget.
• Legal Hurdles: There’s a bit of 'we can't talk about this' around the child abuse allegations. Apparently, the filmmakers didn’t even try to address those issues, which is... a choice. But it means the movie feels like it’s dodging the elephant in the room.

A few critics summed it up with some memorable words. Joe George over at Den of Geek called the whole thing 'devotional art or camp of the highest level.' That’s a diplomatic way to say it feels more like a fan tribute than a real biography. Then there’s Jake Coyle from the Associated Press, pointing out that blindly idolizing a celebrity without asking harder questions is basically repeating 'a sad history.'

Clarisse Loughrey from The Independent put it even more bluntly, calling the film’s recreation of Jackson’s famous visuals 'mechanical.' Basically, you get all the greatest hits, but it never feels like you’re really getting to know the guy behind the legend.

But Wait—Jaafar Jackson Is Getting Major Props

Here’s the plot twist: while almost nobody seems to like the movie as a whole, everybody seems to agree that Jaafar Jackson—the guy playing Michael and his actual nephew in real life—is fantastic in the role. Even the harshest reviews make sure to point this out.

Whether you care about the actual movie or not, it’s hard to ignore how much Jaafar nails his uncle’s signature moves and persona. Melissa Ruggieri at USA Today says he’s got the choreography 'down to perfection,' and Danny Leigh at the Financial Times called his scenes 'picture perfect.' And Gregory Ellwood over at The Playlist admits the nostalgia factor is real, with Jaafar channeling the MJ energy enough to 'quench a nostalgic thirst.'

Jonathan Sim from ComingSoon calls the performance 'transformative'—which is pretty high praise for anyone taking on such an iconic role, and even higher when it’s coming from a family member.

Who knows if the movie will actually find an audience once it hits with the public—sometimes the crowd loves a movie the critics hate (especially when it’s about a pop culture juggernaut like Michael Jackson). But, even if nobody remembers Michael as a great film, you can bet Jaafar Jackson’s career just got a serious boost. Don’t be surprised if his name pops up in some award conversations later this year.

So, in summary: Michael might be a dud in most ways, but Jaafar Jackson is apparently worth the price of admission all on his own. If you’re only in it for the music and the moonwalk, you’ll probably get your money’s worth.