The King of Pop’s truest form

It’s as if Michael Jackson foresaw what was in store for him when he named his tour: “This Is It” would either be his final curtain call or he would die trying to put on the greatest show of all time – sadly, it was the latter.

Directed by choreographer Kenny Ortega (“High School Musical”), “This Is It” consists almost entirely of rehearsal footage shot between March and June in preparation for a run of 50 shows in London. It was to be Jackson’s first headlining performance in more than a decade, his magnificent comeback, his redemption.

The documentary reveals a Michael Jackson that contradicts the doubters who said he was too old and weak to tour. Throughout the grueling rehearsals he is in rare form physically and stylistically, busting out complex dance moves with the utmost of ease and pointing out corrections to his musicians and backup dancers.

Even at his most frustrated moment, Jackson never raises his voice. He is very patient and speaks with compassion. He is as far from arrogant as a celebrity of his caliber can be and insists that his musicians and dancers have their shining moments. And just when you think me may lose his cool, Ortega coddles his star almost to the point of excess.

The audience at the rehearsals is made up of technical staff, special effects coordinators, stagehands and performers who at the conclusion of each song provide a modest applause. These people are truly in awe of Michael Jackson, and they respect him as a performer and a leader. During auditions for dancers, even those who did not make the cut expressed their gratitude just to be able to share the stage with MJ.

This is not the Michael Jackson the media has labeled a debt-ridden, washed-up drug addict. Showing no signs of stress or exhaustion, Jackson is completely dedicated to his performance. “This is why we rehearse,” he says many times over. Watching his presence on stage, it is easy to forget that he is only weeks away from imminent death.

This footage is very revealing of the man behind the icon and should serve as testimony that Michael Jackson went out on top, sharing his gift with the world. Sadly, Jackson never received his final standing ovation.

This is it.