Recently the planned Michael Jackson biopic has become more of a reality with the late pop star’s nephew Jafaar Jackson being cast to play him in the project.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and produced by “Bohemian Rhapsody” alum Graham King, the film’s official synopsis says it will tell a “never-before-told and in-depth portrayal of the complicated man who became the King of Pop” and claims to “explore all aspects of Michael’s life”.
The news comes nearly four years after Dan Reed’s HBO documentary “Leaving Neverland” debuted and shook up the world as it aired new light on the child molestation allegations made against Jackson (who was acquitted in court).
In a new op-ed in The Guardian, Reed reiterated his criticisms of Jackson and says he thinks the allegations aren’t being taken seriously enough:
“What the total absence of outrage accompanying the announcement of this movie tells us is that Jackson’s seduction is still a living force, operating from beyond the grave. It seems that the press, his fans and the vast older demographic who grew up loving Jackson are willing to set aside his unhealthy relationship with children and just go along with the music.”
Reed goes on to criticise the media’s coverage of the new film and the downplaying of the allegations, along with asking the filmmakers how they will portray events and what message it sends to the millions of survivors of child sexual abuse.
The Jackson biopic will begin shooting later this year.
Source: Indiewire
