Michael Jackson’s untimely death became a media blitz this summer. Any news or details about the events that led up to his death became the hottest story and the reports were inescapable. Jackson had died while in the middle of rehearsing for his upcoming London performances – an unheard of 50 performances had been booked at the O2 Arena. Soon after his death, the rehearsal footage became a hot commodity, with movie studios in a bidding war. Sony Pictures won and soon announced the release of the film This Is It, which also happened to be the name of Jackson’s London concert.
Chronicling the months from April through June 2009, This Is It gives audiences a rare glimpse into the life of Michael Jackson, whom although a pop icon, gave little details of his private life. Like his career, the film’s release was groundbreaking, with a simultaneous worldwide release. The film shattered box office records and landed Michael Jackson at the top of the charts once again.
The film had a limited release, but on January 26, 2010, you can own it for yourself on DVD or Blu-Ray.
Disc details from the press release:
Single-Disc DVD Bonus Material
* “Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins” Making-of Documentary
This in-depth documentary reveals Michael Jackson’s unique, groundbreaking vision for his ambitious return to the stage, with director Kenny Ortega and the entire crew from This Is It.
* “Staging the Return: Beyond the Show” Making-of Documentary
Director Kenny Ortega and the crew of This Is It discuss Michael Jackson’s final rehearsals, and the purpose behind creating the concert film.
* “The Gloved One” Costumes Featurette
Costume Designer Zaldy reveals the elaborate new costumes created for Michael Jackson to wear on the This Is It tour.
* “Memories of Michael” Featurette
Kenny Ortega and the crew of This Is It share personal stories about working with Michael Jackson, and how they will remember their friend.
* “Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers” Featurette
A look at the high-stakes audition process, which began with over 5,000 applicants and ended with the selection of 11 exceptionally talented dancers.
* Theatrical Trailer
Single-Disc Blu-ray Bonus Material
* “Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins” Making-of Documentary
This in-depth documentary reveals Michael Jackson’s unique, groundbreaking vision for his ambitious return to the stage, with director Kenny Ortega and the entire crew from This Is It.
* “Staging the Return: Beyond the Show” Making-of Documentary
Director Kenny Ortega and the crew of This Is It discuss Michael Jackson’s final rehearsals, and the purpose behind creating the concert film.
* “The Gloved One” Costumes Featurette
Costume Designer Zaldy reveals the elaborate new costumes created for Michael Jackson to wear on the This Is It tour.
* “Memories of Michael” Featurette
Kenny Ortega and the crew of This Is It share personal stories about working with Michael Jackson, and how they will remember their friend.
* “Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers” Featurette
A look at the high-stakes audition process, which began with over 5,000 applicants and ended with the selection of 11 exceptionally talented dancers.
* Theatrical Trailer
* BD Exclusive: “Smooth Criminal” Vignette
The full-length vignette starring Michael Jackson which was to be shown before the performance of “Smooth Criminal” at the This Is It concert.
* BD Exclusive: “Making ‘Smooth Criminal'” Featurette
An in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at the groundbreaking production of the new “Smooth Criminal” film created for This Is It.
* BD Exclusive: “Thriller” Vignette
The full-length vignette which was to be shown during the performance of “Thriller” at the This Is It concert.
* BD Exclusive: movieIQ: connects you to access real-time information on the cast, music, trivia and more while watching the movie! Also includes the “This Is It” interactive playlist where you can bookmark your favorite songs featured in the film and email yourself a customized playlist.
