August 11, 2009 12:46

Michael Jackson rehearsal film set for worldwide cinematic release

Movie based on O2 Arena preparation comes out in October

Photo Gallery: Michael Jackson
Photo: Pa Photos

A film based around Michael Jackson's rehearsals for his proposed London O2 Arena residency has been given a release date.

The film, called 'This Is It' after the title for the run of shows, will be shown in cinemas around the world from October 28.

Filmmakers are using hundreds of hours of rehearsal and behind-the-scenes footage from the singer's preparations for the shows.

Most of the footage comes from rehearsals at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, where Jackson's memorial service was held, though it will also feature interviews with the singer's friends and collaborators.

"The world will see what our team was so fortunate to experience, which was the full commitment, passion and creativity that Michael put into this project," said Kenny Ortega, the director and Jackson's creative partner on the 'This Is It' show.

"He was the architect of 'This Is It', and we were his builders. The footage that was captured from the early stages of the production to our technical rehearsals at the Staples Center in LA will show Michael as he truly was, creatively involved with every aspect of the production, from the staging and choreography to the music, lighting, production design and conception of the original short films and video backdrops... I think the footage will show that the process was something that Michael deeply enjoyed and that it was clear that he was on his way to another theatrical triumph."

Sections of the film will be presented in 3D and high definition, and will feature digital sound.

Sony Pictures, who are releasing the film, explained that it is being made with "the full support of the estate of Michael Jackson".

The rights to the rehearsal footage was sold by the O2 Arena[/a]'s promoters [b]AEG Live and the singer's estate shortly after his death at the end of June, and was granted legal approval by a judge in Los Angeles on August 7.