Michael Jackson – ‘Training Day’ & ‘Emancipation’ Director Antoine Fuqua Set To Direct Pop Star’s Forthcoming Biopic

Michael Jackson, Antoine Fuqua

Michael Jackson – ‘Training Day’ & ‘Emancipation’ Director Antoine Fuqua Set To Direct Pop Star’s Forthcoming Biopic

A fresh take on the iconic life of singer Michael Jackson is headed to production.

According to reports, director Antoine Fuqua has officially been brought on to direct the film from Lionsgate.

Along with Fuqua — who directed the recent Will Smith period piece “Emancipation” as well as the Denzel Washington led series “The Equalizer” — Graham King has also been brought on as a producer. King’s credentials include the 2018 Oscar-winning Freddie Mercury biopic, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” starring Rami Malek. Reportedly, the upcoming biopic titled “Michael” will give viewers an “in-depth” and “never-before-seen” look into the famed musician’s life.

Michael Jackson at the 1993 Super Bowl

Speaking on the film, Fuqua recalled the strong impression Jackson had on him prior to becoming a successful filmmaker. He stated:

“The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am. For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson.”

Antoine Fuqua

He continued:

“I was influenced to make music videos by watching his work – the first Black artist to play in heavy rotation on MTV. His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible.”

Reports note that “Michael” is expected to begin principal photography this year. Lionsgate’s chair Joe Drake also shared a few words in favor of the “Southpaw” director, stating:

“Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film,”

With producer King adding:

“Antoine’s films provide personal perspectives of larger-than-life characters that continuously captivate global audiences.”

Reportedly, key moments and performances from the musician’s life will be covered in the film. Michael Jackson was widely known as the “King Of Pop,” and one of the greatest performers to ever live. The decorated Grammy winner spent much of his time in the limelight since his musical beginning, starring in the family band comprised of him and his brothers, The Jackson 5.

The Jackson 5

After reaching great heights in his career, Jackson passed away in 2009 at the age of 50 from cardiac arrest reportedly caused by an overdose of sedatives. The tragic incident occurred ahead of his comeback tour “This Is It.” There is no word on when the film is expected to be released at this time.

[VIA 1,2]

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