The biographical film ‘Michael’ is set to be released in Japan in 2025.
Michael Jackson, known as the “King of Pop,” continues to influence artists and creators worldwide with his monumental achievements, including his 1982 album “Thriller,” which has sold over 100 million copies globally and is recognized by Guinness World Records as the “best-selling album of all time.” Following his sudden passing in 2009, the documentary film “Michael Jackson’s THIS IS IT” became the highest-grossing concert film ever, with over 5 billion yen in box office revenue in Japan alone.
‘Michael,’ which has already wrapped filming and is now in the editing phase, will depict the brilliance and complexity of Michael Jackson’s life, highlighting his glory and tragedy. The film delves into his personal and public struggles, relentless scrutiny by the media, and the pressures he faced even at the pinnacle of his career. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, known for “Training Day” and “The Equalizer” series, and produced by Graham King of GK Films, who also produced the 2018 hit “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the screenplay is written by three-time Academy Award nominee John Logan. The film aims to capture Michael’s creative genius and recreate his iconic performances.
Starring as Michael Jackson is his real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson. Other cast members include Academy Award nominee Colman Domingo as Michael’s father Joseph, Nia Long as his mother Katherine, Miles Teller as manager John Branca, Laura Harrier as entrepreneur Suzanne de Passe, and 9-year-old Giuliano Cruz Valdés as young Michael.
In light of the film’s upcoming release in Japan, comments have been received from director Antoine Fuqua, producer Graham King, and Naoya Kinoshita, CEO of Kino Films, the film’s distributor in Japan.
Comments from the Director, Producer, and Distributor of ‘Michael’
Antoine Fuqua (Director)
I can’t wait for the Japanese audience to see this film. The love for Michael’s music and message will continue to grow and spread widely among the people of Japan.Graham King (Producer)
The enthusiasm of Michael’s fans in Japan has always been overwhelming. One of my favorite live performances was the Bad World Tour in Yokohama. Michael’s stunning performance and the audience’s energy inspired what we aimed to recreate in this film. I am thrilled to have the wonderful partnership with Kino Films.Naoya Kinoshita (CEO of Kino Films and Kinoshita Group)
I am deeply honored to be involved in distributing the film ‘Michael’ (working title). Having recently seen the footage, I couldn’t contain my excitement. Michael’s popularity remains undiminished, and I am confident that this film, depicting his life, will resonate with Japanese audiences.
‘Michael’
Director: Antoine Fuqua (‘The Equalizer’ series, ‘Training Day’)
Writer: John Logan (‘The Aviator,’ ‘Gladiator’)
Producers: Graham King (‘Bohemian Rhapsody’), John Branca, John McClain (Michael Jackson Estate)
Cast: Jaafar Jackson, Coleman Domingo, Nia Long, Miles Teller, Laura Harrier, and others
Distributor: Kino Films
Presented by: Kinoshita Group
