This Is It: MJ Rocks 'til You Shine!

     I saw the film This Is It on opening night with my heart wide open for whatever was to take place in the film. I will admit - borrowing from Wendy Williams’ “in my head” phrase – Michael Jackson was always ‘the boyfriend in my head’ since I (and the rest of the world, of course) first laid eyes on him and his brothers, Jermaine, Jackie, Tito and Randy, known as The Jackson Five; so my ‘2-cents’ might be a little biased but, if you saw the film, perhaps you will agree on a few things.

     For me, This Is It is a magical, musical meditation on the human condition through the heart, mind and eyes of a great being and artistic genius who was just days away from bestowing upon us probably the concert production of all time. But more importantly, and this may seem cheesy, seeing Michael in action as a teacher was ‘the icing on the cake’ for me.
     I saw Michael guide his rehearsals with great respect for all performers and crew who responded in turn, with their very best efforts. It seemed they could all rehearse non-stop for days while in the midst of a magical, joyful and soulful environment guided by the genius of MJ and director, Kenny Ortega whose professional relationship we would, I guess, never fathom. I experienced an elevated way to give and receive direction, coaching, concern or thought with great respect and love for all involved. I kept thinking ‘that’s how I’d like to be remembered as a director and teacher’
     And when Michael felt something was not quite right, for example, a musical note, he stated his case, made sure he was understood, received the appropriate response and they kept it moving with no bruised feelings. Michael remained true to his inner voice while being respectful and professional.
     The first and only time I saw Michael live, in concert, was in the 1970’s when he performed with his brothers, and sister, Janet, at the Westbury Music Fair, Long Island, New York (see page 20 of my memoir, Validation Denied, Grace Bestowed). But now, as a woman, I left one of my favorite movie theatres, thoroughly satisfied. (Hint: If you plan on seeing This Is It make sure you sit through the credits!).

Let It Simmer. ~ Michael Jackson, This Is It
Next on Q’s B-Spot: Precious the film.

Teen Task: 1. Go see This Is It. 2. Jot down how the film inspired you in your own creative or career journey. Include how you can build trust in your own inner voice. 3. Always give yourself a chance. 4. Discuss this blog or other topics, personal concerns or issues with your parents; just let them know what’s up with you – at least they can’t say they didn’t know, right?

Fun Fact:  Rita Hayworth, who was featured in a vintage footage in Michael Jackson’s This Is It, was born as Margarita Carmen Cansino, in 1918, in Brooklyn, New York.

Thank you for reading. Visit our website at www.beyondlabelz.com    ~ Quelyn


Copyright©2009 Quelyn Purdie.