Michael: All You Need to Know About the Biopic

The King of Pop Returns to the Big Screen

Michael Jackson, the legendary "King of Pop," is set to return to the spotlight in an upcoming biopic titled Michael. This film is part of a growing trend in the music biopic genre, which has included recent releases such as Bob Marley: One Love and Elvis. The film aims to explore the life of one of the most iconic and influential artists of all time, delving into both his triumphs and challenges.

Release Date Details

The film Michael has finally secured its release date, scheduled for April 24, 2026. This marks the second time that the biopic has shifted its planned release date. Originally set for April 18, 2025, it was moved to October 3, 2025, before being pushed further into 2026. The decision to delay the release highlights the careful planning and attention to detail that the filmmakers are putting into this project.

The Cast of Michael

One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is its cast. Jafaar Jackson, Michael’s nephew, will play the role of Michael Jackson himself. This is Jafaar’s acting debut, but his deep connection to the singer adds a unique layer to the performance. Producer Graham King praised Jafaar, stating, “With Jaafar, every look, every note, every dance move is Michael.” He emphasized that Jafaar embodies the singer in a way no other actor could.

In addition to Jafaar, young actor Juliano Krue Valdi will portray the younger version of Michael. The rest of the Jackson 5, the family group that launched Michael's career, will be played by several talented actors. Jayden Harville and Jamal R. Henderson will take on the roles of Jermaine Jackson, while Jaylen Lyndon Hunter and Tre Horton will play Marlon Jackson. Judah Edwards and Rhyan Hill will portray Tito Jackson, and Nathaniel Logan McIntyre and Joseph David-Jones will play Jackie Jackson.

The supporting cast includes Oscar-nominated actor Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson, his mother. Miles Teller will play Michael’s lawyer, John Branca. These seasoned actors bring a wealth of experience to the project, ensuring a high level of quality and authenticity.

Plot Overview

According to Lionsgate, the official synopsis for Michael states: “Michael will bring audiences a riveting and honest portrayal of the brilliant yet complicated man who became the King of Pop. The film presents his triumphs and tragedies on an epic, cinematic scale — from his human side and personal struggles to his undeniable creative genius, exemplified by his most iconic performances. As never before, audiences will experience an inside look into one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known.”

This description suggests that the film will offer a comprehensive look at Michael Jackson's life, highlighting both his achievements and the challenges he faced.

First Look and Visuals

Although there is currently no trailer for Michael, a first-look image of Jafaar Jackson as Michael Jackson has been released. The photo captures him during the 1992-1993 Dangerous Tour. The image was taken by Kevin Mazur, who documented Michael Jackson throughout his career, including rehearsals for the This Is It concerts. Mazur expressed his admiration for Jafaar’s performance, saying, “Seeing Jaafar perform, I thought, 'Wow, it is Michael.'”

Director Antoine Fuqua

Antoine Fuqua, the director of Michael, is known for his work on various acclaimed films. While this is his first biopic, Fuqua has directed several notable projects, including Training Day, Southpaw, and Emancipation. His experience with storytelling and character development makes him a fitting choice for this ambitious project.

Additional Information

Fuqua’s filmography includes a wide range of movies, from action thrillers to dramas. Some of his other works include The Equalizer, The Magnificent Seven, and What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali. Each of these films showcases his ability to tell compelling stories and bring real-life figures to the screen.

As anticipation builds for Michael, fans and critics alike are eager to see how the film will capture the essence of Michael Jackson’s life and legacy. With a stellar cast, experienced director, and detailed plot, the biopic promises to be a tribute to one of the greatest artists of all time.

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Orlando Bloom's Confident Post-Perry Party Vibe

Orlando Bloom’s New York Appearance Sparks Curiosity

Orlando Bloom, the 48-year-old actor known for his role in The Lord of the Rings, recently made a notable appearance at a high-profile event in New York City. The actor was spotted at the Porsche Design Global Event, where he appeared alone and exuded a relaxed aura. His stylish outfit included a tight black T-shirt, smart black trousers, black shoes, and a silver watch. As he walked outside the venue, Bloom flashed a smile to the cameras, drawing attention from both fans and media.

Body language expert Judi James analyzed his behavior and suggested that Bloom was in a "party mood." She pointed out his cocky thumbs-up gesture as he walked, which she described as a "matey signal" and compared it to an emoji. According to James, this action indicated that Bloom was feeling confident and content. Additionally, she noted that his beaming smile, which even included a glimpse of his tongue between his teeth, seemed to express excitement.

Despite his cheerful demeanor, there were moments when Bloom’s body language hinted at something more complex. He was seen walking away from the venue with his hands in his pockets, a posture that James interpreted as a sign of confidence. However, she also mentioned that in some photos, Bloom stood with his hands clasped in front of his torso in the classic "fig-leaf" pose, which can suggest inner vulnerability or a desire to self-protect.

This solo outing in New York comes just weeks after Bloom ended his relationship with singer Katy Perry. The couple had been together for almost a decade, starting their relationship in 2016 at a Golden Globes afterparty. They became engaged in 2019, with Bloom proposing on Valentine’s Day. The pair share a daughter, Daisy Dove Bloom, who was born in August 2020.

Rumors of their split began to circulate in June, and representatives for both Bloom and Perry confirmed the news earlier this month. In a statement, they said, "Orlando and Katy have been shifting their relationship over the past many months to focus on co-parenting." The statement emphasized that their priority remains raising their daughter with love, stability, and mutual respect.

While the details of their separation remain private, Bloom’s recent appearance in New York has sparked speculation about his current emotional state. Whether he is truly in a party mood or simply maintaining a public image, his actions continue to draw attention from fans and observers alike.

Key Points About Orlando Bloom's Recent Activities

• Event Attendance: Bloom attended the Porsche Design Global Event in New York City, appearing alone and dressed in a stylish black outfit.
• Body Language Analysis: Experts noted his thumbs-up gesture and smiling as signs of confidence and a "party mood."
• Possible Inner Vulnerability: Some poses, such as standing with hands clasped in front, may indicate a desire for self-protection or hidden emotions.
• Relationship Update: Bloom and Katy Perry ended their engagement after six years, focusing on co-parenting their daughter.
• Public Statement: Both parties confirmed the split, emphasizing their commitment to raising their child together with love and respect.

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George Lucas Makes Comic-Con Debut for First Time

Comic-Con 2023: A Celebration of Pop Culture and New Beginnings

Comic-Con is set to kick off in San Diego, California, with a sense of excitement that has been building for months. This year’s event promises to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory, with fans eagerly awaiting appearances from some of the biggest names in entertainment.

One of the most talked-about moments of the convention is the first-time appearance of George Lucas, the legendary filmmaker behind the "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones" franchises. Despite the deep connection between Comic-Con and his work, Lucas has never attended the event before. His participation this year marks a significant milestone for both the convention and its community.

The event, which began in 1970 as a small gathering of pop culture enthusiasts, has grown into one of the world's largest celebrations of entertainment. This year, it will draw over 130,000 attendees who are eager to hear from Hollywood’s top talent and get a sneak peek at upcoming projects.

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

On Sunday, Lucas will participate in a special session moderated by Queen Latifah, where he will discuss the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art alongside Mexican director Guillermo del Toro and Oscar-winning artist Doug Chiang. The museum, scheduled to open in Los Angeles next year, will focus on illustrated narratives and will house the extensive Lucas archive.

David Glanzer, Chief Communications and Strategy Officer, shared his thoughts on the significance of Lucas’s presence. “Nearly five decades ago, Star Wars made one of its earliest public appearances at our convention, along with a booth featuring (comic book artist) Howard Chaykin’s now legendary Star Wars poster as a promotional item,” he said. “Now, to have Mr. Lucas... is a true full-circle moment. His lifelong dedication to visual storytelling and world-building resonates deeply with us and our community.”

Exciting New Releases and Panels

This year’s Comic-Con will also feature several high-profile premieres and panels. Marvel Studios, while making a smaller appearance than usual, will still offer exciting content for fans. Although they skipped their annual Hall H presentation, other events in the popular venue are expected to generate a lot of buzz.

On Friday, Hall H will host the world premiere of the pilot episode of "Alien: Earth," a prequel series directed by Noah Hawley. The show is set a few years before the events of Ridley Scott’s 1979 film "Alien" and aims to expand the iconic franchise.

Another fan-favorite is "Predator: Badlands," which will have its own panel on Friday. Director Dan Trachtenberg, known for revitalizing the "Predator" franchise with "Prey" (2022), will join stars Elle Fanning and Dimitrius Schuster-Koloamatangi, who plays the predator Dek. The panel is expected to reveal more about the production, which features the predator as prey rather than the hunter for the first time.

New Projects and Surprises

On Saturday, Ryan Gosling will join directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller to present their new film "Project Hail Mary." Based on Andy Weir’s novel "The Martian," the film follows Ryland Grace, a former science teacher who wakes up on a spaceship on a mission to save Earth. The movie is set to debut in theaters next year.

Another highly anticipated event is the second season of "Peacemaker," with James Gunn and his cast expected to offer sneak peeks. Fans can look forward to exclusive content and insights into the upcoming episodes.

A Celebration of Fan Culture

Beyond the big panels and premieres, Comic-Con is also a celebration of fan culture. Thousands of attendees will dress as princesses, warriors, aliens, and other characters from the vast world of pop culture. This vibrant expression of fandom is a key part of what makes the event so unique and special.

Comic-Con runs from Thursday to Sunday, July 27, offering something for everyone. Whether you're a die-hard fan of "Star Wars," "Alien," or just love the spirit of pop culture, this year’s event promises to be an unforgettable experience.

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Elvis Fans Furious Over £300 for Grainy AI Tribute Video

A New Elvis Immersive Experience Sparks Outrage Among Fans

A new Elvis immersive show has sparked a wave of frustration among attendees, with many calling it "the worst experience of my life" and claiming they were left feeling disappointed and even bored. The exhibition, titled Elvis Evolution, created by Layered Reality, is currently running in central London and has drawn criticism for not meeting the expectations set during its initial promotion.

The show was advertised as a groundbreaking concert experience that would use AI and feature holographic projections of the rock legend. However, after tickets went on sale in October 2024, some fans reported that the promised technology was absent, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

Tickets for the six-month run range from £75 for a standard entry to £300 for a Super VIP option. The premium package includes a mid-show champagne experience, a commemorative glass, dedicated seating, access to three bars, and cloakroom facilities. Despite the high price, many attendees felt the experience did not justify the cost.

The exhibition begins by taking visitors through Elvis's early life before transitioning into an interval featuring a Hawaii-themed bar with a cardboard cut-out of the singer. Attendees then watch a version of the 1968 comeback special performance, which was originally broadcast live on NBC.

However, many have taken to social media to express their disappointment, calling the show "extortionately overpriced" and questioning whether it lived up to its marketing. One fan shared, "This was honestly the biggest letdown and a bit of a scam. Not at all like it has been advertised." Another said, "It's completely different from how it was originally advertised. The beginning starts well, but then it basically turns into a glorified cinema."

Some attendees also mentioned that the experience lacked immersion, with one person stating, "My family and I didn’t really find it immersive. We just walked out feeling bewildered and disappointed." Another noted, "When we booked it, it was advertised as a hologram. You can imagine how disappointed we were last night. I was glad when it was finished. I nearly dozed off."

Despite the negative feedback, the show has received some positive reviews. One fan said, "I personally thought it was a great evening—five stars," while another added, "Loved it." However, the overwhelming majority of comments on the show’s Instagram page are negative, with users describing it as "the worst experience of my life" and claiming they were "robbed of our money."

Mark and Tracey Baldwin, who had VIP tickets, told the BBC that they felt "more like mugs than VIPS." Ms. Baldwin criticized the lack of actual interaction with Elvis, saying, "It was a shambles from start to finish. There was no Elvis. It was just a video of him that you could watch on YouTube."

Other critics have accused the organizers of exploiting older audiences, claiming they were "taken for a fool by scamming us with technology that we won't understand." Paige Rannigan, who attended the show on Saturday evening, expressed her frustration, saying the experience was "nothing like what was advertised or promised." She also raised concerns about the lack of strobe light and flash light warnings, as she suffers from epilepsy.

Layered Reality has responded to the criticism, stating that accessibility was a priority during the production process. They have provided a detailed FAQ section on their website to address potential issues and ensure accommodations for visitors. A spokesperson explained, "A small number of people have pointed out that they were expecting a hologram concert, due to the initial announcement made in January 2024."

They emphasized that the concept evolved over time and that the decision not to mimic Elvis’s performances was a creative choice. "Those moments proved to be too iconic and irreplaceable," the statement continued. "Instead, we use AI to upscale archive footage and in moments we know happened but where no footage existed, offering a new lens into his world."

While some fans have praised the show, others remain unconvinced. As the controversy continues, the question remains: was Elvis Evolution truly an immersive experience or a costly misstep?

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From Every Background: The Life of an Extra in a World Threatened by AI

The Unseen Players in Film and Television

Supporting artists, background performers, walk-ons, extras—these are the names given to the individuals who populate the world of film and television. Their role is often overlooked, yet they are essential to the production process. These people come from all walks of life: students, retirees, semi-professionals, and even those with other careers. They are part of a unique group that exists between actors and scenery, performing a job that is both unglamorous and integral to the industry.

However, their position has become increasingly precarious due to the rise of AI-generated imagery. This shift has raised concerns among many in the industry, as the traditional role of extras faces a potential threat. Few could have predicted this turn of events back in July 2005, when the world of film and television was immortalized in one of the BBC’s most popular comedy series.

A New Era for Extras

The challenge for Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant after the success of The Office was to create a new show that could match its acclaim. Their answer was Extras, which premiered on BBC One 20 years ago this week. The show follows Andy Millman, played by Gervais, a serial “extra” who dreams of making it big while dealing with the realities of his role. The first series featured Hollywood superstars like Ben Stiller, Kate Winslet, and Samuel L. Jackson, highlighting the stark contrast between the A-listers and the supporting cast, who were often treated as disposable props.

Shaun Pye, a comedy writer and actor who played Andy’s nemesis, Greg, in Extras, recalls the pressure of following such a successful show. “I think there was just a huge expectation that it was going to be as good as The Office,” he says. Despite not achieving the same cult status as its predecessor, Extras remains a cringe-inducing yet poignant portrayal of the struggles people endure for art.

The Real-Life Experience of Extras

For many real-life extras, the experience is more nuanced than what is portrayed on screen. Alex, from Edinburgh, started his career in animation before transitioning into acting. He took on supporting artist roles to gain on-set experience. “I can wait the whole day – 10 hours – and then, if I’m performing for those last 30 minutes, it’s worth it,” he explains. For some, the job is about the opportunity to be on set, even if it means long hours and minimal recognition.

Shaun Pye agrees that the job suits certain temperaments. “It’s enormously long hours, you don’t get treated well generally – maybe there’s something exciting about being on telly.” Some extras are professional, while others are less so. On The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret, one extra stood out for her constant laughter, which added an unexpected charm to the scene.

The Diversity of Background Actors

Wayne Berko, CEO of Uni-versal Extras, emphasizes the diversity of the people in his casting agency. “Our background actors come from all walks of life,” he says. “Teachers, dancers, students, police, musicians, fitness instructors, nurses. We’ve got retirees, people in their eighties.” This diversity is a result of the fact that being an extra is one of the few roles on major sets that isn't fully professionalized.

Zoe, who had a small speaking part in Michael Winterbottom’s The Look of Love, shares her experience. She was managing director of a London-based software company when she stumbled onto the set through a friend. “Winterbottom likes to cast the extras as people who do the real jobs,” she says. Her experience on set gave her a glimpse into the world of film, where even a small role can be valuable.

The Threat of AI

Despite the charm of these roles, the profession is under threat. In 2023, the US film and television industry faced strikes led by the actors’ union over concerns about AI replicating a performer’s likeness. While extras may not have the same bargaining power as main actors, their future is uncertain.

Berko is cautious about working with companies developing AI-generated supporting artists. “If it’s something that would take jobs away from our people, then the answer would probably be no,” he says. However, he acknowledges that if AI can benefit both the people involved and society, it might be worth considering.

The Future of Film and Television

Ben Kent, director of research at Foundry, believes that while AI is improving, it still has limitations. “Video generation is really good if you just want to create an entirely new shot and don’t care too much about exactly what’s in it,” he says. However, he thinks that these issues will be resolved within five years.

Throughout film history, crowd scenes haven’t always used real actors. Star Wars used matchsticks for pod races, and Lord of the Rings combined costumed actors with CGI models. As AI becomes more advanced, the balance between real actors and digital alternatives may shift.

Balancing Technology and Humanity

Zoe, who continues to juggle her tech career with acting, sees the value in both real and AI-generated actors. “On the lower budget end, people will use AI-generated crowds all the time; the pinnacle of craft will still be to use real people,” she says. Shaun Pye agrees, expressing a sense of disappointment if he watches a film and suspects the background actors are generated by an algorithm.

While AI presents challenges, it also offers opportunities. Some productions may continue to use supporting artists as a hedge against AI-generated content, while others may require large numbers of faces for data collection. Even if the allure of rubbing shoulders with stars fades, the role of extras remains important in the filmmaking process.

The Enduring Legacy of Extras

Twenty years after Extras, the truth that Gervais and Merchant uncovered still resonates. Film and television are made up of many parts, some big, some small, but all contributing to the final product. As Konstantin Stanislavski once said, “There are no small parts, only small actors.” The same applies to the unseen players in the world of film and television.

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Elvis Experience Deemed 'Atrocious and Misleading' at £300

A New Elvis Experience Sparks Mixed Reactions

A new immersive experience called Elvis Evolution, which opened in London, has generated a wave of mixed reactions from attendees. The show, created by Layered Reality, was initially promoted as a groundbreaking concert experience that would use AI and holographic projections of the King of Rock and Roll. However, some fans have expressed disappointment, claiming they were misled about what to expect.

The show was announced in January 2024 and advertised as featuring a "life-sized digital Elvis" performing iconic moments from his musical history on a UK stage for the first time. Tickets for the event range from £75 to £300, with the Super VIP option offering additional perks such as a mid-show champagne experience and dedicated seating.

Despite the initial hype, several attendees reported that the show did not live up to their expectations. Some claimed there was no hologram of Elvis at all, leading to accusations of being mis-sold the experience. One fan described it as "one of the most misleading shows I've ever seen."

Layered Reality responded to these concerns, explaining that the concept evolved over time. They stated that while the initial announcement suggested a hologram, the final production took a different approach. Instead of using a hologram, the show uses AI to upscale archive footage and recreate moments where no footage existed. This creative decision, according to the company, allows for a fresh perspective on Elvis's life and career.

A Journey Through Elvis’s Life

Elvis Evolution takes attendees on a journey through the life of the rock legend, starting with his youth and featuring insights from his childhood friend, Sam Bell. The experience includes an interval in a Hawaii-themed bar, where attendees can enjoy a cardboard cut-out of Elvis. The second act features a re-creation of the 1968 comeback special concert, which was performed live on NBC.

Despite the ambitious vision, some attendees found the experience lacking. Mark and Tracey Baldwin, who had VIP tickets, described the show as "absolutely atrocious." They felt they were treated more like mugs than VIPs, expressing frustration and disappointment. Mrs. Baldwin compared the experience to a local theater performance, suggesting that the cost was not justified.

Other critics have also shared mixed opinions. While some praised the show for its immersive design and innovative use of technology, others criticized it for being "limp and indifferent." The Telegraph gave the show one star, while CityAM described it as "incredibly touching." TimeOut awarded it three stars, noting that the show is enjoyable once audiences accept it for what it is.

Concerns About Accessibility and Safety

Paige Rannigan, who attended the show as a birthday gift for her mother, was left in tears after the experience. She felt the show did not match the promises made during the marketing campaign. Additionally, she pointed out that there were no warnings about strobe lights or flashing effects, which could be a concern for individuals with epilepsy.

Layered Reality emphasized that accessibility was a priority during the production process. They mentioned that a detailed FAQ section is available on their website to address potential issues and ensure accommodations are made for attendees.

Another attendee, Lizzie Ward, described the performance as a "low quality theatrical performance" and is desperately seeking a refund. Despite the negative feedback, some fans have praised the show as "well-acted, innovative, exciting, and a whole lot of fun."

Challenges and Cancellations

The show has faced several challenges, including delays in its launch and cancellations due to security concerns. On one occasion, an attendee was carried out by security staff during the interval, leading to the cancellation of the show. Layered Reality explained that the individual became verbally aggressive, and security had no choice but to remove him to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

The company has since confirmed that the shows will continue as scheduled, following a thorough review and dialogue with the cast.

Future Plans and Final Thoughts

Elvis Evolution is set to run at ExCel London until December. Initially, the show was planned to move to Las Vegas, Berlin, and Tokyo after its London run, but this has not been confirmed.

While the experience aims to bring Elvis to life using AI, it has sparked debate about the expectations of immersive entertainment. Some argue that it offers a unique way to connect with the legacy of the music icon, while others feel it falls short of the promises made during the marketing campaign.

Overall, the mixed reviews highlight the challenges of balancing innovation with audience expectations in the world of immersive experiences.

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