Because, after years in development, the flick now has a director and studio attached. And both are seismic.
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As reported, back in 2019 ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’s producer Graham King was granted the rights from the King of Pop’s Estate to mobilize a movie about MJ’s incomparable life with a script helmed by Oscar nominee John Logan.
Now, Variety confirms that Antoine Fuqua has been tapped to direct ‘Michael’ – which has today been confirmed to be a Lionsgate production.
Fuqua boasts a critically acclaimed list of films he’s directed, including ‘Training Day’ (which won Denzel Washington an Oscar) and the Will Smith-led ‘Emancipation.’
The director said of his appointment:
“The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am. For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson. I was influenced to make music videos by watching his work – the first Black artist to play in heavy rotation on MTV. His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible.”
Joe Drake, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group said of the added:
“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film.”
Graham King concludes:
“Antoine’s films provide personal perspectives of larger-than-life characters that continuously captivate global audiences.”
While Jackson’s Estate is on-board (and has cleared the use of the late legend’s music), the film promises to be a raw and unvarnished account of the megastar’s ultra-layered life. A life that remains like no other.
‘Michael’ begins shooting this year.
The news follows the Tony Awards win for ‘MJ: The Musical’ on Broadway