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Timeline

This Is It (2009) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

Release, runtime and language
2009 · 111 min · Spanish
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Directed by
Kenny Ortega
Starring
Michael Jackson

This documentary provides a revealing look at Michael Jackson’s preparations for his comeback concert series at London’s O2 Arena. Featuring extensive behind-the-scenes footage, it captures the meticulous creative process of a legendary artist. Viewers gain unprecedented access to over 100 hours of rehearsal footage, witnessing Jackson’s dedication as he perfects his iconic songs and stage production, offering a unique insight into his artistry and vision.

On this page (6)
  1. 1 Where to watch
  2. 2 Events in order (14)
  3. 3 Timeline questions answered
  4. 4 Movie threads
  5. 5 Movies like This Is It
  6. 6 Every angle
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14 events in order · contains spoilers

This Is It Timeline: Events in Chronological Order

Every key event of This Is It (2009) in order, scene by scene, with when and where it takes place. Use it to untangle flashbacks, time jumps and parallel storylines, to refresh your memory before the sequel or to find the exact scene you are thinking of.

  1. Introduction

    The film opens with a text introduction that emphasizes its purpose of celebrating Michael Jackson for the fans. This sets the tone for the rest of the documentary, underscoring the passion and legacy of the iconic performer.

  2. Opening Performance

    Michael Jackson begins his electrifying performance with 'Wanna Be Startin' Somethin',' emerging on stage dramatically from a body suit made of screens. This opening sequence sets the stage for the high-energy acts that follow, showcasing Jackson's unique style and presence.

  3. Rehearsal Footage

    A series of rehearsals are presented, starting with Jackson directing Ortega and the band during the 'Human Nature' performance. This sequence highlights Jackson's meticulous approach to music, as he adapts his performance from acapella to full band arrangements.

  4. Smooth Criminal Vignette

    Rehearsals for the 'Smooth Criminal' video vignette are shown, illustrating Jackson's innovative choreography and use of technology. The blend of dance and storytelling in this sequence cements Jackson's status as a performer who could captivate audiences.

  5. Jackson 5 Animatic

    A nostalgic animatic introduces the Jackson 5, illustrating the impact of Michael's early career. Following this, Jackson rehearses some of their classic hits, capturing the evolution of his artistry over the years.

  6. I Just Can't Stop Loving You

    Michael performs a duet of 'I Just Can't Stop Loving You' with one of his backup singers, showcasing both his vocal prowess and his ability to direct a performance. The rehearsal reflects the emotional depth he brings to his music.

  7. Thriller Vignette Filming

    The filming for the iconic 'Thriller' vignette is shown, with Jackson and Ortega observing through 3D glasses. This segment emphasizes the groundbreaking nature of the 'Thriller' music video and its lasting influence on pop culture.

  8. Rehearsing Beat It

    Jackson is seen rehearsing 'Beat It,' creatively envisioning the dramatic ending he desires for the performance. This includes a powerful drum build-up, illustrating his artistic vision and commitment to delivering unforgettable shows.

  9. Earth Song Video Sequence

    The documentary presents a thought-provoking video sequence for 'Earth Song,' featuring a small girl's journey through a devastated forest. This poignant imagery aligns with Jackson's advocacy for environmental issues and highlights the songs' deeper meanings.

  10. Billie Jean Performance

    Michael performs a quick version of 'Billie Jean', integrating a new dance sequence that encapsulates his iconic style. This intense rehearsal serves to excite his team and offer a preview of what audiences can expect.

  11. Man In The Mirror Rehearsal

    During a sound check, Jackson delivers a powerful rehearsal of 'Man In The Mirror,' accompanied by strong backing vocals. This moment reinforces his genuine connection to the music and his commitment to social issues.

  12. Final Conversations

    In the lead-up to the London performances, Michael is seen discussing trivial dance moves and expressing his hopes for the concert series with Ortega and his team. These interactions reflect his dedication to his craft and the collaborative spirit of the production.

    When
    Before concert series
    Where
    London
  13. Rehearsals for Global Message

    After performing 'Earth Song' on stage and from a cherry-picker, Jackson delivers an urgent message about global warming. He emphasizes the importance of awareness and the limited time for positive change, making a powerful statement to his audience.

  14. Conclusion of the Film

    The film concludes with a visually striking image of Jackson on stage, arms extended, underscoring his identity as the 'King of Pop.' The closing message affirms Jackson's enduring legacy and the love that his fans still have for him.

Last updated: December 31, 2024 at 18:09

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Timeline questions answered

This Is It Timeline Explained: Your Questions Answered

When does it happen, and why in that order? The questions people ask about the chronology of This Is It (2009): time jumps, flashbacks, cause and effect between scenes and the correct order of events, each answered with spoilers.

Q1

What was the 'toaster' mechanism shown in the film?

The 'toaster' was an innovative staging mechanism used during the rehearsals where images would burst forth from a dazzling body suit made of screens. During the opening performance of 'Wanna Be Startin' Somethin',' Michael Jackson would emerge from this device, which projected vivid imagery in high intensity, creating a dramatic entrance that showcased his unique theatrical style.

  • toaster mechanism
  • staging
  • performance technology
  • opening sequence
Q2

Why does the film feel sad despite its celebratory tone?

The film carries profound sadness because viewers know that Michael Jackson passed away before the London concert series could take place. The hopeful energy of his meticulous preparation and clear artistic vision is overshadowed by the tragic reality that these rehearsals were his final work. The closing message 'Michael Jackson, King of Pop, Love Lives Forever' reinforces this bittersweet legacy.

Foreshadowing: The final image of Jackson on stage with arms outstretched foreshadows the emotional weight viewers feel knowing this was his last artistic statement.

  • bittersweet
  • michael jackson death
  • london concerts
  • legacy
  • sadness
Q3

How did Michael Jackson prepare for the London concerts?

The documentary reveals Jackson's meticulous approach to preparation, directing his dancers and band members through precise choreography and musical arrangements. He would adapt performances on the spot, transitioning from acapella to full band versions, and worked closely with choreographer Kenny Ortega to perfect every detail of the production.

  • rehearsals
  • preparation
  • kenny ortega
  • choreography
  • perfectionism
Q4

What does the 'Earth Song' video sequence mean?

The 'Earth Song' video sequence features a small girl navigating an abundant forest, only to awaken and discover the devastation caused by humanity. This imagery aligns with Jackson's environmental advocacy and his on-stage message about global warming, emphasizing the irreversible damage done to the planet and the urgent need for awareness.

  • earth song
  • environmental
  • global warming
  • message
  • forest devastation
Q5

Why were Jackson 5 songs included in the concert repertoire?

The concert included Jackson 5 classics like 'I Want You Back,' 'The Love You Save,' 'I'll Be There,' and 'Shake Your Body' to showcase Michael Jackson's artistic evolution from his early career to his solo stardom. The nostalgic animatic introduction highlighted his roots while demonstrating how his artistry developed over the years.

Foreshadowing: The Jackson 5 segment foreshadows the celebration of his complete career journey spanning decades.

  • jackson 5
  • classic hits
  • career evolution
  • nostalgia
  • early career
Q6

What made the 'Thriller' vignette special in the film?

The 'Thriller' vignette rehearsal showed Michael Jackson and Kenny Ortega spectating wearing 3D glasses, immersing themselves in the electric atmosphere of recreating the iconic music video. The blend of the classic Thriller dance sequence with meticulously intertwined vignettes served as a mesmerizing homage to Jackson's groundbreaking influence on pop culture.

  • thriller
  • 3d glasses
  • music video
  • homage
  • pop culture
Q7

Why was 'Man In The Mirror' significant to Michael Jackson?

During the sound check, Jackson delivered a powerful rehearsal of 'Man In The Mirror' with strong backing vocals, reinforcing his genuine connection to music and social issues. The song reflected his commitment to making a positive change in the world, aligning with his message about global awareness expressed during the 'Earth Song' performance.

  • man in the mirror
  • social issues
  • sound check
  • positive change
  • commitment
Q8

What concert venue were the rehearsals for?

The rehearsals were for Michael Jackson's planned comeback concert series at London's O2 Arena. In the lead-up to these performances, Jackson was seen discussing choreography details and expressing his hopes for the series with Ortega and his team, showcasing his dedication to delivering an unforgettable experience.

  • london
  • o2 arena
  • concert series
  • comeback tour
  • preparations
Q9

How did Michael Jackson direct performances as both performer and director?

Jackson took on a dual role, performing while simultaneously directing Ortega and the band through his musical ensemble. He would adapt his performance on the spot, demonstrating unparalleled talent in choreography while ensuring precision during rehearsals. This hands-on approach showcased his creative genius across all aspects of the production.

  • director
  • choreographer
  • performer
  • leadership
  • creative control
Q10

What new dance was added to 'Billie Jean' for the concerts?

Michael performed a quick version of 'Billie Jean' integrating an exciting new dance segment that showcased his iconic style. This intense rehearsal featured an added dance section that encapsulated his unmatched talent and provided a preview of the electrifying performances audiences would have seen at the O2 Arena.

  • billie jean
  • new dance
  • performance
  • added choreography
  • iconic style
Q11

Why did Michael Jackson allow guitarist Orianthi to take center stage?

During the 'Black or White' rehearsal, Jackson allowed the talented guitarist Orianthi Panagaris to take center stage, where she finished with a soaring high guitar riff. This demonstrated Jackson's willingness to showcase other talented musicians and his collaborative spirit in creating a dynamic musical experience.

  • orianthi
  • guitarist
  • black or white
  • solo
  • collaboration

Movie threads

More Movies Like This Is It, by Mood & Story

Curated lists built around what makes This Is It tick: the same mood, the same kind of story or the same emotional payoff. Each list explains why these movies belong together.

Bittersweet Legacy Documentaries like This Is It

Behind-the-scenes looks at iconic artists, tinged with the sadness of what might have been. Discover movies like 'This Is It' that explore the final creative endeavors of iconic artists. If you enjoyed the mix of celebratory rehearsal footage and poignant context in this Michael Jackson documentary, you'll find similar stories of artistic genius and bittersweet legacies here.

  • documentary
  • behind-the-scenes
  • bittersweet
  • reverent
  • melancholic
  • celebratory
  • Tone: hopeful, bittersweet, reverent
  • Pacing: steady, observational
Why these movies?

The story pattern: Stories in this thread follow a linear, often behind-the-scenes path, documenting an artist's intense preparation for a major project. The narrative is built on a foundation of incredible creative energy and dedication, but is shadowed by the viewer's knowledge of an impending, often tragic, conclusion that gives the artistry a deeper, more sorrowful meaning.

Why they belong together: Movies are grouped here because they share a specific emotional recipe: a hopeful and energetic tone focused on creation, combined with a bittersweet or melancholic undertone born from real-world context. They provide a unique, reverent look at genius while carrying a significant emotional weight.

Movies about High-Stakes Creative Process like This Is It

Stories driven by the intense, passionate pursuit of artistic excellence. Explore films similar to 'This Is It' that capture the intense energy and dedication of a creative process. If you were fascinated by the behind-the-scenes look at Michael Jackson's perfectionism and the high-stakes preparation for a major show, you'll enjoy these stories of artistic ambition.

  • dedicated
  • perfectionism
  • energetic
  • behind-the-scenes
  • passionate
  • artistic vision
  • Tone: hopeful, dedicated, passionate
  • Pacing: steady, building
Why these movies?

The story pattern: The narrative pattern revolves around the journey of creation, often leading up to a major event like a concert or performance. The primary tension is not external danger but the internal pressure of achieving perfection, managing a large team, and overcoming logistical and artistic challenges under a tight deadline.

Why they belong together: These movies share a high-intensity vibe derived from creative passion rather than physical action. They feature a steady pacing that builds anticipation, a hopeful tone centered on problem-solving and vision, and a deep focus on the details and sacrifices involved in ambitious artistry.

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Every angle

This Is It (2009) Explained: Plot, Timeline & Characters

Everything about This Is It in one place: what happens in the plot summary, the timeline in chronological order, the characters and meaning and a spoiler-free summary. What's After the Movie adds the cast, box office and post-credit scenes.

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