Celebrating a Legacy A Review of Thriller 40 (Film)

In 1982, Michael Jackson released what would become the best-selling album of all time, “Thriller.” Fast forward 40 years, the monumental legacy of this iconic album is celebrated in the documentary Thriller 40 (film). Directed by Nelson George, a seasoned filmmaker known for his deep dives into music and culture, the documentary marks a significant milestone by reflecting on an album that has shaped the landscape of modern music. Released on December 2, 2023, in the United States, the film was made available through Showtime and streamed exclusively on Paramount+ for Showtime subscribers. This premiere was mirrored internationally on the same day, reaching audiences in the U.K., Australia, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Latin America, and South Korea.

“Thriller” was not just a collection of songs but a cultural phenomenon that redefined what an album could be. It was an audio-visual spectacle that broke racial barriers on MTV and set new standards in the music industry. The album produced a string of hit singles and revolutionary music videos, including the groundbreaking title track, “Thriller,” which featured a narrative video with cinematic qualities rarely seen in music videos at the time. “Thriller 40” aims to delve into the impact of Jackson’s work, exploring its creation, the waves it made in the music world, and its enduring legacy that continues to influence artists across various genres. Through this documentary, Nelson George invites viewers to revisit the excitement and innovation that Michael Jackson brought into the world of music and entertainment.

Documentary Overview

“Thriller 40,” a documentary that revisits Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking album “Thriller” on its 40th anniversary, premiered in the United States and simultaneously across several international territories on December 2, 2023. This strategic release date not only marks the anniversary of the album but also coincides with the holiday season, tapping into a period when audiences may be more receptive to nostalgic content. In the U.S., the film was available on Showtime, appealing to a broad subscriber base with an interest in music documentaries and cultural histories. Additionally, it was streamed on Paramount+ exclusively for Showtime subscribers, expanding its reach to a digitally savvy audience that prefers on-demand viewing.

Internationally, the release was synchronized across various countries including the U.K., Australia, Canada, Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Latin America, and South Korea. This wide distribution ensured that fans around the globe could partake in the celebration of Jackson’s legacy, emphasizing the global impact of the “Thriller” album.

The promotional campaign for “Thriller 40” began with the release of the trailer on October 27, 2023. The trailer served as a crucial tool in building anticipation and providing a glimpse into the documentary’s narrative and style. It highlighted key moments and interviews, setting the tone for an engaging and informative viewing experience. By releasing the trailer over a month before the documentary’s premiere, the producers aimed to generate buzz and ensure that fans and new audiences alike were eager to tune in. The trailer’s impact was significant, sparking discussions on social media platforms and among music critics, which helped in rekindling the public’s interest in Michael Jackson’s artistic achievements and the historical significance of the “Thriller” album.

Cast and Contributors

The cast of “Thriller 40” includes a blend of archival footage of Michael Jackson and fresh interviews with a host of celebrities and music industry veterans who were directly or indirectly influenced by Jackson’s work. Each contributor brings a unique perspective to the documentary, enriching the narrative with personal anecdotes, critical analyses, and discussions of Jackson’s influence on their own work and the music industry at large.

Michael Jackson (archive footage) – The documentary makes extensive use of archival footage of Jackson, both in performances and behind-the-scenes, providing an intimate look at his creative process during the making of “Thriller.”

Brooke Shields – Having been close to Jackson, Shields shares personal memories that shed light on Jackson’s personality off stage and the pressures he faced at the height of his fame.

Mary J. Blige and Usher – These powerhouse singers discuss Jackson’s influence on their careers and the evolution of R&B and pop music, drawing lines from “Thriller” to contemporary music trends.

Mark Ronson and Will.i.am – As producers, they delve into the technical and innovative aspects of Jackson’s music, particularly his pioneering use of music video as an art form to enhance musical storytelling.

Misty Copeland and Maxwell – Provide insights into the cultural and artistic impact of “Thriller,” discussing how Jackson’s work transcended music and influenced broader cultural expressions including dance and fashion.

John Landis – The director of the “Thriller” music video, Landis provides behind-the-scenes stories on the creation of one of the most iconic music videos ever made, offering viewers a direct look at the collaborative process between him and Jackson.

Deborah Nadoolman Landis – The costume designer for the “Thriller” video, she explains the thought process behind the iconic red jacket worn by Jackson, which has become a cultural symbol in its own right.

By weaving together these diverse perspectives, “Thriller 40” not only commemorates an album but also paints a multifaceted portrait of Michael Jackson as an artist whose work has left an indelible mark on the world. This comprehensive approach allows the documentary to capture the essence of why “Thriller” remains a significant cultural and musical milestone, four decades after its release.

Themes and Content

“Thriller 40” meticulously explores Michael Jackson’s profound influence on music and pop culture, encapsulating how his visionary approach reshaped the entertainment landscape. The documentary highlights several seminal moments that underscore Jackson’s genius, including his strategic breakthrough on MTV. At a time when Black artists faced significant barriers on the channel, Jackson’s “Billie Jean” not only secured rotation but also became a pivotal moment in the music industry, demonstrating his ability to transcend racial boundaries and appeal universally.

Jackson’s iconic performances, particularly the moonwalk during Motown’s 25th Anniversary TV special, are shown as not just technical feats but cultural milestones that solidified his status as a global superstar. These moments are depicted as catalysts that influenced a generation of artists and creators across various media.

The documentary delves into how the “Thriller” album transformed music video production and the pop music scene. With the “Thriller” music video, Jackson turned what were typically straightforward promotional tools into a storytelling art form, combining film-quality cinematography with flawless choreography. This not only revolutionized music video production but also helped in elevating the music video to an art form, inspiring countless artists to see videos as an integral part of artistic expression.

Jackson’s evolution from a Motown child star to a mainstream pop sensation is also thoroughly examined, portraying him as a crossover artist who navigated between R&B and pop with unprecedented grace and success. This transition is highlighted as a key factor in the democratization of music genres, breaking down the barriers that often segregated music by racial lines in commercial markets.

Critical Reception

The documentary has received a spectrum of reviews that collectively emphasize its comprehensive portrayal of Jackson’s legacy. Richard Roeper of the “Chicago Sun-Times” praised “Thriller 40” for its upbeat and well-paced celebration of the album’s creation, focusing on the technical brilliance and cultural impact of Jackson’s work. His review underscores the positive aspects of the documentary that appeal to both fans of Jackson and enthusiasts of music history.

Brian Lowry from CNN offered a nuanced view, appreciating the documentary’s focus on Jackson’s musical genius and its impact rather than delving into the controversies surrounding his personal life. Lowry’s perspective is valuable in understanding how the documentary aims to redirect the narrative towards Jackson’s artistic contributions.

Rae Alexandra of KQED highlighted another significant theme: Jackson’s role as a crossover artist. Her insights into how Jackson navigated racial divisions within the music industry and emerged as a mainstream pop icon contribute to a deeper understanding of his impact on the music industry and pop culture.

Neal Justin of the “Star Tribune” made an intriguing comparison between Jackson and contemporary pop icon Taylor Swift, discussing how Jackson, like Swift, shaped and was shaped by the cultural forces of his time. This comparison enriches the discussion by placing Jackson’s influence in a broader historical context.

Dean Karayanis of “The New York Sun” praised the documentary for presenting the “Thriller” album in “stark relief” without relying on nostalgia or star power, highlighting its focus on Jackson’s artistic merit.

A comparative analysis of these critiques reveals a general consensus on the documentary’s success in celebrating Michael Jackson’s musical legacy while maintaining a focus on his artistic innovations rather than his personal life. Each review contributes a different perspective that, when woven together, presents a multifaceted view of the documentary’s impact, illustrating its ability to engage a diverse audience by highlighting different aspects of Jackson’s career and the enduring influence of his album “Thriller.” These perspectives not only reinforce the documentary’s thematic goals but also underscore its effectiveness in rekindling appreciation for one of music’s most significant figures.

“Thriller 40” emerges as a profound documentary that skillfully chronicles the lasting impact of Michael Jackson’s seminal album “Thriller” on music and culture. By delving into the album’s creation, its groundbreaking achievements, and the inimitable artistry of Jackson himself, the film offers a panoramic view of an era where music and visual media intersected like never before. The documentary underscores “Thriller” not just as a collection of songs, but as a pivotal moment in the evolution of pop culture, highlighting its role in shaping modern music videos, breaking racial barriers, and redefining the music industry’s landscape.

The relevance of Michael Jackson’s work remains unquestioned in today’s music industry. His innovative approach to music production, performance, and marketing continues to serve as a benchmark for artists around the globe. “Thriller” in particular, with its all-encompassing appeal and pioneering music videos, continues to inspire artists across genres, demonstrating the timeless nature of true artistic innovation. Jackson’s ability to blend pop, rock, and funk, coupled with his detailed attention to choreography and visual presentation, laid down a blueprint that is still followed by artists striving to create a comprehensive audio-visual experience.

“Thriller 40” contributes significantly to the understanding and appreciation of Michael Jackson’s artistic legacy by providing insight into the technical brilliance, meticulous craft, and visionary approach that Jackson employed. The documentary does this while navigating the complexities of his persona and public life, focusing on his professional achievements that heralded new norms in the music industry. Through interviews, archival footage, and critical analyses, it paints a multifaceted portrait of Jackson, emphasizing his role as a cultural icon who transcended mere musical categorization to become a global phenomenon.

Moreover, the film addresses how “Thriller” became a cultural touchstone that resonated across diverse audiences, influencing not just musicians but also dancers, filmmakers, fashion designers, and more. This wide-reaching influence underscores Jackson’s dexterity not only as a musician but as a comprehensive entertainer whose work reached beyond traditional boundaries to touch various aspects of artistic expression. By exploring these impacts, “Thriller 40” allows viewers to appreciate the layers of Jackson’s creativity and the depth of his influence on the tapestry of global culture.

In reflecting on the continued relevance of Jackson’s work, “Thriller 40” also acts as a reminder of the enduring power of music as a form of cultural expression. It highlights how Jackson’s work navigated and influenced significant cultural and social movements, and how it continues to resonate in an ever-evolving music landscape. The documentary not only celebrates Jackson’s achievements but also stimulates a renewed discourse on his contributions to music and culture, encouraging a new generation to explore his works with a fresh perspective.

In conclusion, “Thriller 40” does more than commemorate an album’s anniversary; it revitalizes Michael Jackson’s legacy in a contemporary light, reminding us of the indelible mark he left on the world. Through its thoughtful exploration, compelling narrative, and respectful homage to Jackson’s genius, the documentary ensures that the legend of Michael Jackson and his iconic album “Thriller” continues to thrive and inspire in the annals of music history. The film stands as a testament to Jackson’s enduring influence and a celebration of his unparalleled contributions to the arts.