The biographical film ‘Michael’, based on the life of Michael Jackson, is finally set for release in Bangladesh on April 24, coinciding with its international premiere, after receiving clearance following a pending censor certification. Star Cineplex confirmed the development on Thursday, ending uncertainty over the film’s local release.
The late pop icon, who died in 2009 at the age of 50, continues to enjoy global popularity, drawing around 65 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film stars Jaafar Jackson, the nephew of Michael Jackson, in the lead role. The cast also includes Miles Teller, Colman Domingo, Kat Graham, Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Kendrick Sampson and Juliano Krue Valdi.
The film goes beyond Jackson’s musical achievements to explore the story of his life, tracing his journey from a young talent in the Jackson 5 to becoming the world’s biggest entertainer. It will portray his life beyond the stage, along with the golden moments of his solo music career, offering audiences an intimate look at where it all began.
Key figures from his life are also depicted. Colman Domingo plays his father Joe Jackson, while Nia Long portrays his mother Katherine Jackson. Jessica Sula appears as his sister La Toya Jackson. The film also features influential figures from the music industry, including Berry Gordy, music executive Suzanne de Passe and Diana Ross. Through these portrayals, the film highlights the roles played by those behind Michael’s rise to global stardom.
Michael Jackson began his journey as the lead vocalist of the Jackson 5 at a young age. Gradually establishing himself as a solo artist, he rose to become one of the biggest stars in global music history. The biopic promises to reveal many lesser-known stories from his life, alongside recreations of some of his most iconic performances.
For fans of Michael Jackson, the film represents a major cinematic event. The teaser, released in November last year, set a record with 116.2 million views within 24 hours, the highest ever for a musical biopic teaser. The trailer also generated strong momentum, surpassing 5 million views within a day of its release in February.
Analysts predict that ‘Michael’ will achieve significant commercial success upon release. Star Cineplex Media and Marketing AGM Mesbah Uddin Ahmed expressed optimism about its reception in Bangladesh.
He said that Bangladesh has a large fan base of Michael Jackson and there is already strong interest in advance tickets, adding that they are hopeful the film will win the hearts of audiences.
