Mock fallback summary. - **Discussion**: The episode discusses the contrasting reception of the Michael Jackson movie between audiences and critics, highlighting that while critics have given it low scores due to perceived omissions, fans have embraced the film enthusiastically. The hosts emphasize their anticipation for the film, suggesting that the audience's enjoyment may hinge on their expectations being low compared to past performances. - **Context**: The film's release comes amid ongoing interest in Michael Jackson's legacy, reflecting broader cultural conversations about celebrity biopics and their reception. The high audience score suggests a disconnect between critical assessment and public enjoyment in the case of biographical films. - **External Verification**: [Rotten Tomatoes](https://www.rottentomatoes.com), [Wikipedia on Michael Jackson](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jackson), [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com) - **Discussion**: The hosts note that the omission of Diana Ross, a significant figure in Jackson's life and career, has sparked chatter among fans. An actress who was set to portray her revealed that legal constraints led to the removal of her character from the final cut. The dialogue touches on the significance of Ross in Jackson's history and how her absence might affect the portrayal of his story. - **Context**: Diana Ross played a pivotal role in introducing the Jackson 5 to the world and had a close relationship with Michael Jackson. Her portrayal would have added depth to the film's exploration of Jackson's early years. - **External Verification**: [Wikipedia on Diana Ross](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diana_Ross), [Billboard article on biopic](https://www.billboard.com), [The Guardian on Michael Jackson](https://www.theguardian.com/music/michael-jackson) - **Discussion**: This topic highlights how the film's focus and scope were constrained by the decisions of family members, impacting the portrayal of familial relationships in Jackson's life. The conversation reflects a broader trend in biopics where family dynamics play a crucial role in historical representation and storytelling. - **Context**: Janet Jackson's role in the Jackson family and her relationship with Michael are significant, and her absence may dilute the narrative surrounding the Jackson legacy. - **External Verification**: [Wikipedia on Janet Jackson](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janet_Jackson), [Variety article on biopic](https://variety.com), [Entertainment Weekly on film](https://ew.com) - **Discussion**: The episode addresses critiques surrounding the decision to omit significant episodes from Jackson's life, especially those related to the allegations of molestation. The hosts discuss the narrative choices made and speculate about potential sequels that could deal with these sensitive topics while emphasizing the importance of presenting a comprehensive view of Jackson's life. - **Context**: Given the historical context of Michael Jackson's legal troubles and public perception, this discussion reflects the ongoing tension between honoring an artist's legacy and addressing problematic aspects of their life. - **External Verification**: [Wikipedia on Michael Jackson's allegations](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jackson#Child_sex_abuse_cases), [BBC article on history in biopics](https://www.bbc.com), [CNN on Jackson](https://www.cnn.com) - **Discussion**: The hosts express a desire for a future film to explore the more complex and difficult parts of Michael Jackson's story, such as the FBI investigations and public controversies. This desire underscores a yearning for a more nuanced portrayal that would capture both his monumental achievements and the darker episodes of his life. - **Context**: Exploring Jackson's life further in a sequel could provide a more holistic view of his impact on music and the controversies that affected his legacy, which remains a topic of discussion among fans and critics alike. - **External Verification**: [The New York Times on sequels in biopics](https://www.nytimes.com), [Screen Rant on Jackson myths](https://screenrant.com), [Rolling Stone on biopic legacy](https://www.rollingstone.com)

Michael Jackson Biopic Scores A 96% From Audience Rated Popcorn Meter Despite Harsh Critic Reviews

Topics

Michael Jackson Biopic Release

Exclusion of Diana Ross

Omission of Janet Jackson

Criticism of Whitewashing History

Potential Sequel Discussion