Just this October, This Is It, a film documenting Michael Jackson’s final days, moon-walked into theaters.

Before his death, Jackson had planned a comeback tour consisting of 50 performances around the globe. The production of what would have become a fabulous tour was taped for Jackson’s personal records and would have joined many other videos in the Jackson family library. Because of the death of Jackson, these recordings were generously made available for the film.

This Is It transports us into the final days of The King of Pop, filled with his personality, passion, and pure love of music that constantly overwhelmed the public.

Many Monte Vista students have heard Michael Jackson songs, seen him on TV, or overheard parents talking about his devastating death, but do we truly appreciate him? This Is It will take young and old audiences alike on a journey of further understanding of his life. In witnessing Jackson pour his soul into the performance you gain a portion of the great love he has for his music.

“I greatly appreciate Michael Jackson and recognize him as a really talented musician and gifted person.” Mrs. Gordon, Monte Vista Dance teacher, said. “His music speaks to every generation, just differently. I would love to see the movie, to further my appreciation.”

 Unlike other artists, MJ fully dedicated himself to his music and personalized every aspect of it. Jackson accomplished this by going over plans with those in charge of lighting, musicians, choreography, pyrotechnics, and much more. During the film Jackson rehearses the opening eight counts of the song with the pianist over a dozen times. This shows his will to have a show that was nothing less than perfect.

 Through the film, we are able to witness Jackson taking the stage with the same enthusiasm as he did many years ago. At a test run for the performance of Thriller, Jackson is on a crane overlooking the audience, when he is told the crane is capable of going higher. He replies, “Why did you have to tell me that? You know what I want.” Jackson loved to please and amaze the audience ­–  he continually repeated one word: bigger.