To understand the gravity of This Is It , one must remember the climate of March 2009. Michael Jackson had been living in relative seclusion since his 2005 acquittal on child molestation charges. His finances were strained; his reputation was bruised. For many casual observers, the King of Pop seemed like a relic of the 80s, a tragic figure living in a rented Las Vegas mansion.
That perception shattered on March 5, 2009, at London’s O2 Arena. Standing on a cherry-picker before thousands of screaming fans and a global press corps, a seemingly rejuvenated Jackson delivered a short but electric speech: "When I say this is it, it really means this is it. These will be my final show performances in London. This is the final curtain call." Michael Jackson-s This Is It
Michael Jackson’s " This Is It " was more than just a documentary or a concert residency; it was a glimpse into the creative brilliance of the King of Pop as he prepared for what would have been his definitive comeback. Originally planned as a 50-show residency at London's O2 Arena, the project shifted into a posthumous tribute that broke global records and gave fans one last look at MJ’s unmatched artistry. The Vision: A Return to the Stage To understand the gravity of This Is It
Director Kenny Ortega (the choreographer behind Dirty Dancing and High School Musical ) pieced together over 100 hours of behind-the-scenes footage. The result is raw, unpolished—and utterly mesmerizing. We see Michael in sneakers and dark pants, not full costume. He’s saving his voice, marking his dance moves instead of going full out. Yet even at 50% energy, he commands every frame. For many casual observers, the King of Pop
In the years since Jackson's death, there have been numerous tributes and celebrations of his music and legacy. The "This Is It" concert series may have been cancelled, but it remains a fascinating footnote in the history of popular music. The production values, the setlist, and the rehearsal footage all provide a glimpse into what could have been a groundbreaking and unforgettable concert experience.