191: Michael Filmmaker Roundtable

Filmmakers Adam Green, Marcos Cabota, Jin Chohan, and Paul Black join host Charlie Thomson for a continuation of The MJCast’s “Michael” biopic deep-dive discussion series, this time focused on the perspective from those in the film industry. They hone in on details around editing and scene selection, and considerations (from a top-down view) about audience, approach, and production, as well as discussing whether the film truly humanizes Michael Jackson, and what a sequel – if it happens – might look like. Ultimately, the team casts new light on how to think about the film, combined with their personal insights as long-time mega fans of the King of Pop.

This episode was edited by Paul Black.

Participants
• Charlie Thomson
• Adam Green
• Jin Chohan
• Marcos Cabota
• Paul Black

Additional Links
• Adam Green’s podcast, The Movie Crypt.
• Marcos Cabota’s documentary (not yet widely available), Sonic Fantasy.
• Jin Chohan’s in-progress documentary, Trial By Media: The Michael Jackson Story

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

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If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.comKeep Michaeling.

190: Michael Biopic Roundtable

Shawn Shackelford leads the entire MJCast crew, including Elise Capron, Charlie Thomson, Charlie Carter, and newest member, Simon Wilkie, in a deep-dive discussion about the long-awaited “Michael” biopic, which hit theaters this past week.

“Michael” marks a major moment for MJ fans after years of anticipation—and comes with a surge of excitement which has built in the months and weeks leading up to its release. In the first 48 hours of officially hitting theaters, it blew up even the most optimistic projections, taking in around $100 million globally in a single day. By the end of opening weekend, it made well over $200 million globally (opening in 80 countries worldwide), and could officially claim the title of the biggest opening ever for any musical biopic.

Even though the film has faced a wave of negative reviews and press coverage from mainstream sources, audiences are showing up in large numbers, and with great enthusiasm. Critics haven’t exactly embraced the film, but one thing that keeps coming up is Jaafar Jackson’s performance as Michael Jackson. In this roundtable discussion, the team breaks down his performance, along with everything else the film gets right… and where it may fall short. Without a doubt, 2026 is the year of “Michael”.

This episode was edited by Simon Wilkie.

Participants
• Shawn Shackelford
• Elise Capron
• Charlie Thomson
• Charlie Carter
• Simon Wilkie

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
• Facebook
• Instagram
• X
• Threads
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.comKeep livin’ off the wall.