Sony’s statement about the This Is It film

Starting October 30 this year, the film This Is It will be shown in theaters around the world with excellent picture quality and digital sound. Most scenes of this film were recorded in June 2009 and only a few weeks before Michael’s death at the indoor Staples Center in Los Angeles. This film shows the King of Pop on stage dancing and singing his songs. Michael was preparing to perform 50 concerts in London. Alongside rehearsals, behind-the-scenes preparation for the concerts is shown, along with pieces of videos that Michael recorded for display during the 3D presentation of his concerts, as well as interviews with Michael’s friends and close associates. This film is being prepared with the full support of the administrators of the Michael Jackson Foundation, John Branca and John McClain, who are responsible for handling his financial affairs and assets. The film uses hundreds of hours of recorded rehearsals by Michael. Michael’s share of the film’s revenue will go to his three children and their guardian, Catherine Jackson, Michael’s mother. Sony paid $60 million to purchase the production rights for this film from the concert promoter AEG and Michael’s lawyers. The film is produced jointly by Sony (Sony Pictures and Sony Music), AEG, and Michael’s lawyers. Sony Pictures is responsible for the film’s worldwide release. Randy Phillips and Paul Gongora from AEG will also work as producers on this project. This Is It gives people the opportunity to get to know Michael Jackson behind the scenes and to become aware of the outstanding show that was supposed to come to London. The film shows how perfectionist Michael was, with what careful attention and precision he was preparing this show. Branca says: “Our goal is to work with partners who deal with Michael’s legacy honestly and with respect, and to create increased income for Mrs. Catherine Jackson, Michael’s three children, and the charitable institutions that share in Michael’s wealth. We are confident that we have entered into this work with the right partners. Michael’s history of collaboration with Sony has been profitable and mutually beneficial, and it is appropriate that this relationship continues.” McClain, who has a 40-year bond with Michael and the Jackson family, says: “This film is not only a tribute to the artistry that created excitement in every moment he was on stage; it is also a fitting gift for the millions of fans who loved him and who he devoted himself to entertaining. John and I are excited to work with Sony to generate income for Michael’s family and for children in need.” Michael Lynton, President and CEO of Sony Pictures, says: “People who have seen the rehearsal film are stunned by the astonishing quality of Michael Jackson’s performances. This historic film, capturing his final readings and dancing, shows this legendary artist in an incredible and powerful way. And the sound and picture quality are outstanding. We understand the importance of making a film that celebrates Michael’s art, and we are proud to work with Michael’s lawyers to present the final gift of his last performances to viewers. I know this film will once again prove that Michael Jackson is one of the greatest showmen who ever adorned the stage.” Kenny Ortega, who was supposed to direct Michael’s concerts, said: “The world will see what our team had the good fortune to experience. And that commitment, passion, and creativity that Michael brought to this project. He was the architect of the This Is It concerts, and we were the builders of his vision. This film, recorded from the first moments of planning these concerts to the final days at the Staples Center, shows Michael exactly as he was. With his creativity, he was involved in every aspect of production—from staging and dance moves to music, lighting, the production schedule, and the filming and video content for the stage. The film also portrays Michael as one of the greatest showmen and one of the most creative minds in the entertainment and programming industry. I think this film shows that Michael truly enjoyed the process of this work, and it was clear and obvious that Michael was on the path to creating another spectacular victory.” Off The Wall, Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, and History—five of Michael’s albums with Sony—are among the best-selling. And Thriller is the best-selling music album in the world. Michael has sold 750 million copies of his albums worldwide, and the number of sales of Thriller singles alone exceeds 100 million copies. Source: eMJey / Sony