Michael Jackson superfans will get a chance to see the upcoming biopic Michael a few days early. The film’s studio, Lionsgate, announced on Tuesday (March 10) that the movie chronicling the late King of Pop’s rise from his hardscrabble Gary, Ind. roots to global superstardom will hit a limited number of screens for early-access viewings in premium formats on April 22, two days ahead of its wide release that Friday. Tickets for the one-night-only screenings are on sale now here.
The film directed by Antoine Fuqua (Stans, Bullet Train) stars Jackson’s real-life nephew, Jaafar Jackson, who pulls off a spot on homage to his uncle in the trailer of the movie, from Jackson’s signature electrifying dance moves to his laser-focused determination to produce pop music for the ages.
Among the other stars featured in the film are Colman Domingo (Wicked: For Good, Eurphoria) as imperious family patriarch Joe Jackson , as well as Kendrick Sampson as producer Quincy Jones, Miles Teller as the singer’s powerhouse lawyer/manager John Branca, Nia Long as mother Katherine Jackson, Larenz Tate as Motown founder Berry Gordy, Juliano Valdi as a young MJ, Laura Harrier as Jackson 5 dresser Suzanne de Passe, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, Jessica Sula as sister La Toya Jackson, Liv Symone as Gladys Knight and Kevin Shinick as Dick Clark.
“For Michael Jackson’s fans, Michael is the cinematic event they’ve been waiting for — the movie captures both the soul and the spectacle of the boy who became the King of Pop,” said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group president of worldwide distribution Kevin Grayson in a statement. “These early access screenings, in IMAX and premium large formats, will immerse audiences in the electrifying performances and bring the power of Michael Jackson’s iconic music to life. It’s the perfect way to be the first to see the movie.”
A description of the $155 million movie promises that Michael is “the cinematic portrayal of the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known. The film tells the story of Michael Jackson’s life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the discovery of his extraordinary talent as the lead of the Jackson Five, to the visionary artist whose creative ambition fueled a relentless pursuit to become the biggest entertainer in the world. Highlighting both his life offstage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, the film gives audiences a front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before. This is where his story begins.”
Lionsgate released a new trailer for Michael on Tuesday, featuring more images of Jackson in his most iconic moments, from crooning “Who’s Loving You” as a child for Motown’s Gordy to secure his family band’s record deal with the legendary label, to his breakout solo career and massive worldwide tours.
Check out the latest Michael trailer below.
