VOA标准英语2009年-Michael Jackson Returns in 'This Is It'（在线收听）

By Penelope Poulou
Washington
31 October 2009

 
Michael Jackson in the new movie "This is It"
Four months after Michael Jackson's sudden death, a film on his final days has opened around the globe. The movie called "This Is It" will play for two weeks only but may be extended.

The film, part documentary part musical concert, is based on Jackson's rehearsals for his London stage performances. They were scheduled for July but cancelled because of his untimely death.

Director, producer Kenny Ortega stitched together the 2-hour film from 120 hours of behind the scenes footage. "This is like a little backstage pass, a private peak into a creative process of a great genius," he says.

Jackson is electrifying. His moves are sharp. His musical sensibility flawless. His rhythm is so precise he's like a metronome.

Jackson was plagued by scandal, debt and rumors of failing health, and many questioned whether he could pull off a grand comeback.

But according to Ortega, Jackson envisioned his concerts as his crowning achievement, the spectacle to end all spectacles. "We had new technology with video, costuming, lighting with sound, with pyrotechnics. I came to know very quickly that Michael liked things hotter, bigger, louder," he says.

The film shows Jackson in top shape. Immersed in his work, he was the creative spirit behind a supercharged production showcasing the hits of a lifetime.

People waited in line for hours, in the rain, outside a Washington DC movie theater, hoping for tickets to the only screening before the sold-out premiere.

They were not disappointed.

On its opening day worldwide, the film topped the box office, raking in $66.6 million. But it's not only about money. The movie reaffirms Jackson's genius and gives a glimpse of his comeback, had there been one. Fan or no fan, one leaves the theater heartbroken at the loss.