One of the great ironies of Michael Jackson's THIS IS IT is made apparent near the beginning of the film: during a luminescent solo performance of Human Nature, the barrier between audience and star falls so totally, we suddenly rediscover Jackson more painfully clear than would have been possible even during the live concerts that fell eight short days from taking place.Dance sequences that unfold in chronological order (both in the sequence they were arranged, and in terms of physical production) never reach the point of full dress rehearsal, but are made all the more powerful by their sense of inertia. One can literally see each number progressing from concept in Jackson's head to full-blown (some might say overblown) execution. It is also clear from the outset that Jackson, for all of his quirks and whims, is in charge. No shrinking violet, he is firm yet curiously approachable. One laughs at the squirm-factor in watching his choreographer, music director, etc. gingerly approach him when they have questions. And at times Jackson too is struggling for the answers.
