By ClickUSANews.com Staff | April , 2026

LOS ANGELES – The long-awaited Michael Jackson biopic Michael has finally screened for critics and early audiences, sparking intense debate just days before its wide theatrical release on April 24, 2026. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop, the film is generating strong buzz for its electrifying musical sequences while drawing criticism for playing it safe on the more controversial chapters of Michael Jackson’s life.

Here’s a balanced breakdown of the first reactions, critic reviews, and what fans are saying online about the 2026 Michael Jackson movie.

Jaafar Jackson Steals the Show: “Tremendous” and “Uncanny” Performance

The overwhelming consensus across early reactions is that Jaafar Jackson (Michael’s real-life nephew) delivers a breakout performance that feels eerily authentic.

Critics and attendees at the Los Angeles premiere and Berlin world premiere repeatedly used words like:

• “Tremendous” and “off-the-charts” (The Hollywood Reporter)
• “Uncanny” and “channels Uncle Michael in ways that make you forget he isn’t the real thing”
• “Nails the look, the voice, the electrostatic moves — and the mix of delicacy and steel”

Reviewers highlight Jaafar’s sharp dance moves, dramatic range, and ability to lip-sync perfectly to remastered classics like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” “Thriller,” and “Ben.” Many say the performance alone makes the film worth watching, with some calling it one of the strongest lead turns in a music biopic in years.

Supporting cast members, including Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, also received praise for bringing emotional weight to family scenes.

Mixed Critical Reviews: Strong Music, But “Safe” and “Hollow” Storytelling?

While Jaafar Jackson is universally celebrated, the film as a whole is receiving mixed-to-negative early reviews from critics.

• Positive takes: Some outlets describe it as an entertaining, “feel-good” biopic that celebrates Michael’s artistry and will be “eaten up by fans.” USA Today gave it 3 out of 4 stars, noting it reminds older generations of Jackson’s singularity while educating younger audiences.
• Critical concerns: Many reviewers argue the movie avoids deeper exploration of Jackson’s anxieties, traumas, controversies, and later-life struggles. Roger Ebert.com called it “repetitive,” “insipid,” and “afraid to navigate” the tougher elements, labeling it “hollow” and overly safe. Others note it functions more like a polished tribute than a complex character study.

Current Rotten Tomatoes score sits low (around 27% from early critic reviews), though audience scores are expected to be significantly higher once the film opens to the public.

The film reportedly underwent $15 million in reshoots, and some critics suggest it feels like the first part of a larger story rather than a complete portrait.

What Fans Are Saying: “Ultimate Love Letter” vs. “Diehard Fans Only”

Social media reactions from fans who attended early screenings are far more enthusiastic than professional critic reviews:

• “Entire theater was singing & dancing the whole way through. The ultimate love letter to Michael fans.”
• “Thriller and Beat It recreated to perfection — genuinely couldn’t resist a head bump and finger tap.”
• “Jaafar Jackson gives the performance to beat for the rest of the year.”
• “This is why we go to the movies.”

Many fans defend the film’s lighter approach, arguing they want to celebrate Michael’s music and talent rather than revisit painful controversies. Others express disappointment that it doesn’t dive deeper, with some calling it “boring and one-note” or “the Colman Domingo show.”

Paris Jackson previously criticized the project as potentially “sugar-coated,” adding fuel to the ongoing conversation.

Box Office Expectations and Who Should See It

Analysts predict Michael will open strongly thanks to built-in fan interest, nostalgia, and Jaafar Jackson’s viral-friendly performance. It’s positioned as crowd-pleasing entertainment that shines brightest on the big screen with full sound and visuals for the musical numbers.

Who will love it?

• Longtime Michael Jackson fans wanting to relive the magic of his music and dance.
• Families and younger viewers discovering the King of Pop’s legacy.
• Audiences who enjoy uplifting, music-heavy biopics like Bohemian Rhapsody or Rocketman.

Who might be disappointed?

• Viewers seeking a gritty, unflinching look at Jackson’s full life story.

ClickUSANews.com Verdict (Early Take): Jaafar Jackson is the real star here and likely to launch a major career. If you’re going for the music, the moves, and the spectacle — you’ll probably leave the theater entertained and emotional. If you want bold drama and complexity, you may find it too polished and safe.

What do you think? Are you planning to see Michael this weekend? Do you care more about the performance and music or a deeper exploration of Jackson’s life? Share your expectations or early reactions (no spoilers!) in the comments below.

Last updated: April 23, 2026. This article compiles first reactions and early reviews from The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Deadline, USA Today, Roger Ebert.com, and social media sentiment from verified screenings. ClickUSANews.com maintains E-E-A-T standards with transparent sourcing for trustworthy entertainment coverage.

Related Stories:

• Michael Jackson Biopic ‘Michael’: Everything We Know About the 2026 Release
• Jaafar Jackson Interview: Stepping Into His Uncle’s Shoes
• Best Michael Jackson Songs Featured in the Biopic (Playlist Guide)
• Antoine Fuqua on Directing the King of Pop’s Story

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