Michael Jacksons This Is It 2009 Extras 1 Portable May 2026

Behind the Curtain: Why "This Is It" Extras Are the Real Gold

Date: October 28, 2009 (Archived/Republished) Tags: Michael Jackson, This Is It, Documentary, Music Legacy, DVD Extras

When Sony Pictures released Michael Jackson’s This Is It in theaters in late 2009, it was presented as a solemn tribute—a final bow for the King of Pop. It was a concert film that never was, pieced together from grainy rehearsal footage. It was emotional, yes. It was polished to a shine.

But if you picked up the DVD or Blu-ray and skipped straight to the movie, you missed half the story.

For the die-hard fans and the production nerds, the treasure trove wasn't the main feature—it was the section labeled "Extras 1" (often titled "Staging the Returns" or "The Gloved One" depending on your region). Today, we’re looking back at why these specific extras remain some of the most fascinating footage of MJ’s career.

Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009) — Extras 1: Essay

Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) stands as a unique cinematic and cultural artifact: part concert-film, part rehearsal documentary, and entirely a poignant final chapter in the life and career of a global superstar. Released after Jackson’s sudden death in June 2009, the film compiles rehearsal footage from the months leading up to his planned London residency. The “Extras 1” material—bonus content accompanying some home releases and special editions—offers crucial context and added texture to the theatrical cut, deepening our understanding of Jackson’s artistry, working methods, and the complex production that would have been the “This Is It” concerts. This essay examines the significance of those extras, how they shape audience perception, and what they reveal about Jackson as performer and creative director.

The theatrical film presents an edited, curated narrative: rehearsals transformed into polished sequences that emphasize Jackson’s virtuosity and charisma. Yet the extras expand that narrative by showing process rather than only product. Extended rehearsal takes, candid behind-the-scenes conversations, technical run-throughs, and interviews with choreographers, musicians, and crew open a window onto the collaborative machinery behind Jackson’s showmanship. Where the main feature often feels like an elegy to a perfected performer, Extras 1 humanizes the enterprise—documenting mistakes, repetition, and the incremental refinements that mark professional high-level performance. In this way, the extras democratize genius: they reveal that even a performer of Jackson’s stature depends on iterative practice, collective expertise, and rigorous attention to detail.

One major value of Extras 1 is its documentation of Jackson’s leadership style and creative process. The footage frequently shows him directing dancers, critiquing movement, demonstrating phrasing, and obsessing over timing down to fractions of a beat. Those glimpses reinforce the long-standing image of Jackson as meticulous and exacting—someone who controlled every aspect of presentation, from choreography to costume to lighting cues. But the extras nuance that image as well, showing moments of warmth, humor, and encouragement. Crew members and collaborators speak with evident affection for him, recounting instances of generosity and patience. Thus the supplementary material complicates simple caricatures that circulated in tabloid coverage—revealing both the intensity that drove Jackson’s excellence and the relational ties that sustained the production team.

Technically, Extras 1 also enriches our appreciation for the scale and ambition of the This Is It project. Interviews with the show’s creative leads—musical director, lighting designers, choreographers, and set designers—outline conceptual aims: blending Jackson’s greatest hits with theatrical staging, cinematic visuals, and narrative interludes designed to evoke theatrical spectacle rather than a straightforward concert. The extras show planning sessions where cues are mapped, effects are tested, and video elements are synchronized with sound. For students of performance technology and event production, these behind-the-scenes elements function as a case study in modern concert staging, illustrating how technical innovation and logistical coordination translate artistic vision into live experience.

The extras also play an important role in shaping posthumous legacy and audience emotion. Because This Is It was released after Jackson’s death, viewers approached the film already primed with grief and nostalgia. Extras 1 intensifies that emotional framing by offering more intimate and longer-form encounters—moments where Jackson laughs with dancers, speaks into a megaphone during a run-through, or listens intently to feedback. Those extended scenes make the loss more palpable: viewers see not only performances but rehearsals that now represent opportunities never realized onstage for a global audience. Thus the extras amplify the bittersweet quality of the project, simultaneously celebrating Jackson’s craft and underscoring the tragedy of a canceled tour.

Critically, the extras help address debates about authenticity and editorializing in documentary presentation. Some critics argued that This Is It’s theatrical edit polished raw rehearsal footage into an image of an artist near the peak of his powers, potentially obscuring health concerns or the unfinished nature of the tour preparation. Extras 1 complicates this critique by offering more unvarnished material—outtakes, longer takes, and technical tests that make clear the rehearsals were works in progress. By exposing the messier side of production, the bonus content contributes to a more balanced historical record and allows viewers to form more informed judgments about Jackson’s condition and the state of the show prior to his death.

From a cultural perspective, Extras 1 reinforces Michael Jackson’s continued centrality to global pop culture even in the 21st century. The dedication of high-caliber collaborators, the level of production investment, and the meticulous rehearsal practice all testify to the enduring commercial and artistic value ascribed to Jackson. Furthermore, the extras underscore how popular music performance had evolved into multimodal spectacle—where music, choreography, filmic projection, and theatrical design converge. Jackson, who had long pushed the boundaries of music video, live performance, and celebrity spectacle, appears here as both beneficiary and architect of that convergence.

Finally, the extras invite reflection on ethical questions surrounding posthumous releases. While fans and many collaborators welcomed any material that celebrated Jackson’s work, others questioned whether additional footage should have been released at all—arguing it commodified grief or risked exploiting private rehearsal moments. Extras 1 occupies a middle ground: it can be read as both tribute and artifact, a resource for historians and enthusiasts while also raising concerns about consent and curation after death. How producers edit, package, and promote such material inevitably shapes memory and legacy.

In conclusion, Extras 1 to Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) serves multiple functions: it documents the labor behind spectacle, humanizes an exceptionally private superstar, clarifies the unfinished nature of a major theatrical project, and contributes to ongoing debates about posthumous representation. For scholars of performance, media studies, and fandom, the extras are not mere bonuses but vital components of the primary text—essential for understanding what This Is It sought to achieve and what it ultimately meant to audiences still grappling with Jackson’s complex legacy.

Unveiling the Magic: A Deep Dive into Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) Extras

When Michael Jackson’s This Is It hit theaters in October 2009, it offered a bittersweet glimpse into what would have been the greatest concert residency in history. While the main feature captured the King of Pop’s perfectionism and vision, the Michael Jackson’s This Is It 2009 extras (specifically those found on Disc 1 of the special editions) provide the essential context that transforms the film from a concert documentary into a masterclass in artistry.

For fans and students of pop culture, these bonus features are more than just "deleted scenes"—they are the blueprints of a genius. The Foundation of a Final Vision

The first set of extras focuses on the monumental task of building the O2 Arena show from scratch. Unlike previous world tours, This Is It was designed to be a permanent, high-tech spectacle.

Staging the Return: In these clips, we see director Kenny Ortega and Jackson collaborating on the "Light Man" sequence. The extras detail the technical hurdles of integrating 3D CGI with live performance, a feat that was ahead of its time in 2009.

The Auditions: One of the most emotional segments in the extras is "Searching for the World’s Best Dancers." Out of over 5,000 applicants, only a handful were chosen. The footage captures the raw energy of dancers realizing they are about to perform with their idol, and Jackson’s gentle but firm guidance during their first rehearsals. The Musical Genius at Work

While the movie highlights the hits, the extras dive into the arrangements. Michael was famous for wanting the live performance to sound "just like the record," but with a "heavier" edge for the stadium setting.

The Sound: Features show Michael working with musical director Michael Bearden. You see MJ’s beatboxing—using his voice as a percussion instrument to explain exactly how he wants a bassline or a synth hit to feel.

The Band: The extras give much-needed spotlight to the musicians, including the legendary Orianthi on lead guitar. Watching Michael push her to hit the "Beat It" solo with more aggression is a standout moment for any music gearhead. Why the "Extras" Matter

The term "Michael Jackson’s This Is It 2009 extras 1" often refers to the core behind-the-scenes documentaries like Staging the Return and The Choreography. These aren't just filler; they humanize a global icon.

We see Michael in his "work clothes"—often just a blazer and sequined pants—marking out dance steps with the same precision at 50 that he had at 25. The extras strip away the tabloid noise of 2009 and refocus the narrative on his unparalleled work ethic. Legacy of the Footage

Ultimately, these bonus features serve as a historical record. They prove that despite the physical toll of his career, Jackson’s creative mind was sharper than ever. He wasn't just a performer; he was the primary architect of every frame, every lighting cue, and every snare hit.

For those revisiting the 2009 release, these extras remain the definitive look at the final curtain call of the greatest entertainer to ever grace the stage.

The extras and bonus features for the 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It

vary depending on whether you are looking at the 2-Disc Collector's Edition DVD/Blu-ray or the Deluxe Edition Audio Album. DVD & Blu-ray Bonus Features (Disc 1)

On the 2-Disc Collector's Edition DVD, Disc 1 includes the full 111-minute documentary film along with several specific featurettes:

Staging the Return: A two-part making-of documentary exploring Jackson's vision for the O2 Arena residency.

The Gloved One: A focused look at the elaborate costume designs created for the show.

Memories of Michael: Moving tributes from the cast and crew regarding Jackson's artistic legacy.

Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers: A look at the intense global search and selection process for the backup dancers.

Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the film's cinema release.

(Note: Features like "Meet the Dancers," "Meet the Band," and "Unfinished Rehearsals" are typically found on Disc 2 of the DVD/Blu-ray sets.) Deluxe Edition Audio Album (Disc 1)

If you are referring to the Deluxe Edition soundtrack, Disc 1 contains the "Music That Inspired the Movie," featuring remastered studio versions of the hits rehearsed in the film, plus a previously unreleased title track: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' They Don't Care About Us Human Nature Smooth Criminal The Way You Make Me Feel Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground) I Just Can't Stop Loving You Black or White Earth Song Billie Jean Man in the Mirror This Is It (New track) This Is It (Orchestra Version)

The Disc 2 of the audio set contains additional "extras" such as unreleased demos for "She's Out of My Life," "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," and "Beat It," as well as the spoken word poem "Planet Earth". AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more

What is the difference between THIS IS IT DVD and Blu Ray???

The following write-up covers the first disc of the 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It . This disc primarily contains the 111-minute documentary

chronicling Michael Jackson’s final rehearsal footage, alongside several foundational special features. Disc 1: Main Feature and Core Extras

The first disc focuses on the creative process of the residency that never was, offering a "rare, behind-the-scenes look" at the developing show. The Main Film

: A 111-minute documentary directed by Kenny Ortega. It features raw rehearsal footage of hits like "Thriller," "Smooth Criminal," and "Beat It," often including "new 3D scenes" and vignettes created specifically for the tour. Staging the Return (The Making-of)

: A comprehensive 40-minute documentary exploring the initial development of the O2 Arena shows. It includes:

Interviews with producer Randy Phillips and director Kenny Ortega. Footage of the famous "This Is It" press conference. Insights into the massive fan response and ticket sales. The Gloved One (Costume Featurette) michael jacksons this is it 2009 extras 1

: A deep dive into the wardrobe designed for the tour. It highlights Jackson’s personal style preferences, such as his affinity for natural fabrics and his refusal to wear wool or fur. Memories of Michael

: Collaborators and close friends share personal reflections on working with Jackson during his final months. Auditions (Searching for the World’s Best Dancers)

: Follows the rigorous selection process for the dancers who were to join Jackson on stage. Post-Credit Clips

: The disc includes two emotional vignettes after the credits: Michael rehearsing "Human Nature" and the "Heal the World" girl from the "Earth Song" segment. Audio & Video Specifications Michael Jackson's This Is It Blu-ray

The special features and extras included in the 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It

offer over an hour of never-before-seen content that provides a deep dive into the concert's ambitious production. DVD and Blu-ray Special Features

The 2009 home media releases included several key documentaries and featurettes: Staging the Return

: A two-part making-of documentary that detail the overall development and technical orchestration of the This Is It residency. The Gloved One – Costumes

: A focused look at the elaborate stage outfits designed for the show, including specialized trousers for "Billie Jean" that featured remote-controlled flashing lights. Memories of Michael

: A 16-minute tribute where colleagues and crew members share personal stories and their experiences working closely with Jackson during his final months. Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers

: An inside look at the rigorous selection process for the backup dancers who would have joined Jackson on stage. The Musical Experience

: A featurette focusing on the band and musical direction of the show. Post-Credits Content

The film itself contains two notable scenes after the initial closing credits: "Human Nature" Rehearsal

: A clip of Michael rehearsing the song roughly two weeks before his passing. Final Message

: A video of the young girl from the "Earth Song" vignette holding the earth, followed by Michael’s signature and his final message to fans: "I love you". Related Media The Soundtrack Album

: Released alongside the film, this two-disc set includes the titular song "This Is It" in both standard and orchestral versions, as well as early demo recordings of hits like "She’s Out of My Life," "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," and "Beat It". mentioned in these extras?

Michael Jackson's This Is It DVD 2009 Special Features Kenny Ortega

Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009) serves as a documentary and concert film capturing the rehearsals and preparation for the King of Pop's planned 50-date residency at London's O2 Arena.

The home media releases (DVD and Blu-ray) offer an extensive look at the production through various special features and documentaries. Core Documentaries The centerpiece of the extras is the two-part documentary " Staging the Return

," which chronicles the entire process of bringing the concert to life:

The Adventure Begins (27:21): Details the origin of the 50-show residency and the early stages of planning.

Beyond the Show (13:25): Focuses on the technical aspects and Michael's specific creative vision for the performances. Featurettes and Special Content

The 2-Disc Limited Edition DVD and Blu-ray versions include several specific featurettes:

The Gloved One (15:13): A detailed look at the unique costumes designed by Zaldy for the tour.

Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers (9:50): Highlights the rigorous selection process for the tour's backup dancers.

Memories of Michael (16:19): Emotional interviews with collaborators reflecting on their personal experiences working with Jackson.

Meet the Dancers / Meet the Band / Meet the Vocalists: Individual segments introducing the talented professionals hand-picked for the residency.

The Unfinished Rehearsals: Footage showcasing segments of the show that were still in the developmental phase. Audio and Visual Specifications

For collectors and audiophiles, the Blu-ray release provides a high-fidelity experience:

Video: 1080p High Definition (1.78:1 aspect ratio), blending HD rehearsal footage with standard definition behind-the-scenes clips.

Audio: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 (48kHz, 24-bit) and Dolby Digital 5.1. Soundtrack (2-Disc Album) The accompanying This Is It soundtrack album includes:

Disc 1: Mastered versions of the hits in the same order they appear in the film.

Disc 2: Previously unreleased demos and a spoken word poem titled "Planet Earth".

If you are looking for specific technical details about the "extras 1" designation (often referring to the first disc or specific digital bonus content), or if you want to know where to purchase specific editions like the 2-Disc Limited Edition DVD, let me know! I can also help you:

Compare different regional releases (e.g., Japanese vs. US editions) Find specific rehearsal tracklists for each bonus feature

Locate high-quality reviews of the documentary's technical transfers

The 2009 home media release of Michael Jackson's This Is It features extensive behind-the-scenes content, including the 40-minute "Staging the Return" documentary, costume highlights, and dancer auditions. Blu-ray editions offer exclusive, high-definition content, including the full "Smooth Criminal" and "Thriller" vignettes, along with rehearsal footage. For a detailed breakdown of the features, visit Michaeldvd.com.au

Michael Jackson – This Is It – Blu-ray (Region-free ... - Discogs

The Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) home media release includes a deep dive into the King of Pop’s final creative process. While the documentary itself provides a rare look at the rehearsal of his setlist, the Limited Edition DVD and Blu-ray features extend the experience with never-before-seen footage. Core Bonus Documentaries

The release is anchored by two significant making-of documentaries:

Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins: A multi-part mini-documentary that chronicles the initial production of the This Is It residency. It covers the logistics of building a massive show at the O2 Arena and the advanced technology involved in the set construction.

Beyond the Show: This featurette provides a technical perspective on the concert's complex visual cues and special effects. It includes footage of the stage "toaster" mechanism and the custom-designed video doors intended for Jackson's grand entrances and exits. Exclusive Performance Vignettes

The Blu-ray edition features high-definition shorts that were produced specifically to play on the giant LCD screens during the live concert: Tonight's 3D feature is This Is It Behind the Curtain: Why "This Is It" Extras


Title: The King in Rehearsal: Unpacking the Hidden Gold of 'This Is It – Extras 1'

When This Is It hit theaters in October 2009, it was both a eulogy and a miracle—a chance to see Michael Jackson, just days before his sudden passing, running through the full-scale production that was meant to conquer London. But for the true devotees, the main film was only half the story. The real treasure lies buried in the home release's supplementary material, specifically the section labeled "Extras 1."

These aren't just deleted scenes. They are a raw, unvarnished masterclass.

The Tension of Perfection

The first thing that strikes you in Extras 1 is Michael's voice. Not the polished studio whisper or the explosive live belt, but the working voice. In a grainy rehearsal clip for "The Way You Make Me Feel," he stops the band mid-crescendo. "No... slower," he says, tapping his chest. "It has to breathe." The band adjusts. He closes his eyes, nods once, and then unleashes a pelvic roll so sharp it feels like a secret. This is Michael the Director—meticulous, soft-spoken, but absolute.

The Unseen Choreography

We get extended, multi-angle footage of "Smooth Criminal." In the film, we see the finished illusion: the lean, the fedora, the gangster sway. In Extras 1, we see Michael teaching two new dancers the intention behind a single finger snap. "It's not about the hit," he whispers. "It's about the anticipation." He demonstrates the same eight-count of movement five times, each iteration subtly different—more wrist, less shoulder, a tilt of the head that implies danger. The dancers are exhausted. He is glowing.

Human Moments

Sandwiched between these thunderous rehearsals are tiny, devastating human beats. There’s a 30-second clip of Michael warming up his voice backstage, scat-singing a melody that doesn't belong to any known song—pure improvisation, pure soul. Another moment shows him sharing a quiet laugh with musical director Michael Bearden after a flubbed keyboard cue. He covers his mouth when he laughs, like a shy child. For one breath, he isn't the King of Pop. He's just Mike.

The Weight of "What If"

The final segment of Extras 1 is the hardest to watch: a full, uninterrupted run of "Earth Song" from a soundcheck at the Staples Center. No CGI forests, no bulldozer on stage. Just Michael in a maroon button-down and slacks, reaching for the rafters. The backing track drops out for 15 seconds, and he keeps singing—a cappella, raw, ferocious. When he finishes, the small crew of electricians and camera ops erupts into applause. Michael looks almost surprised, then bows deeply.

Why It Matters

This Is It – Extras 1 isn't about what was lost. It's about what was present until the very end: an artist who still believed that every single "hee-hee" and every single toe-stand mattered. These extras strip away the spectacle to show the scaffolding—the sweat, the counting, the joy, and the relentless, aching love of craft.

You don't watch Extras 1 to mourn. You watch it to remember that greatness doesn't just happen. It rehearses.

[End piece]

The 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It features extensive behind-the-scenes content highlighting the production of his planned final concert residency, including documentaries "The Adventure Begins" and "Beyond the Show". Featurettes on the first disc focus on costume design, dancer auditions, and cast memories, with exclusive Blu-ray content including specialized 3D screen vignettes like "Smooth Criminal". For a detailed breakdown of the two-disc set, visit Michael Jackson's This Is It [Blu-Ray] (2009)


Conclusion: The Essential Appendix

Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009) is a tragedy. "Extras 1" is the redemption. By watching the supplementary material—the costume chats, the extended "The Way You Make Me Feel," the grief-stricken dancers—you stop seeing Michael Jackson as a tabloid headline or a ghost.

In Extras 1, he is a working artist. He is tired. He is brilliant. He is demanding. He is kind.

For the casual viewer, the main film is sufficient. But for the historian, the musician, or the true fan, "Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1" is the required text. It is the last time we saw the King of Pop in his natural habitat: the rehearsal hall, perfecting the magic.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5 - Essential historical document)


Keywords used: Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1, This Is It DVD extras, MJ rehearsal footage, Kenny Ortega, Staples Center, Human Nature extended cut.

The special features for Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009) provide a deeper look into the production and the creative process behind his planned final concert series. The extras available on the home media releases (Blu-ray and DVD) include: Behind-the-Scenes & Documentaries Staging the Return

: A two-part documentary ("The Adventure Begins" and "Beyond the Show") that serves as the centerpiece of the extras. It details the entire journey from the initial conception of the 50-date residency to Jackson's meticulous commitment to perfection during rehearsals. The Gloved One

: A featurette focused on the tour's costume design. Lead designer Zaldy walkthroughs the unique, high-fashion outfits planned for the stage.

Auditions: Searching for the World's Best Dancers: A look at the intense global search for the dancers who would share the stage with Jackson, documenting their journey from the first audition to being selected for the tour. Musical Content & Vignettes

Smooth Criminal & Thriller Vignettes: Re-imagined short films and 3D clips intended to play on massive screens during the live performances.

Smooth Criminal: A "making-of" for the new pastiche film where Jackson is digitally inserted into classic gangster movies.

Thriller: Features new 3D footage of a "graveyard uprising".

Additional Rehearsals: Snippets of rehearsals for songs that didn't make the final film cut, including "Dirty Diana," "Stranger in Moscow," and "Dangerous". Tributes & Cast Insights Memories of Michael

: A tribute featurette where director Kenny Ortega and the production crew share personal stories and their experiences working with Jackson.

Meet the Team: Segments dedicated to the backing band, vocalists, and dancers, giving them a platform to discuss their roles in the "This Is It" production.

"Michael Jackson's This Is It" was a 2009 concert film that was meant to be a comeback performance for Michael Jackson. The film was recorded in 2009 and was intended to be a live concert at the O2 Arena in London.

The performance was recorded on rehearsals and concerts that took place on June 13, 2009. Unfortunately, Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009.

The film was released on October 28. It included footage from rehearsals.

Are you a fan of Michael Jackson or interested in the film? I'd be happy to share more!

Michael Jackson's 'This Is It' 2009 Extras: A Glimpse into the King of Pop's Final Performance

In 2009, the world was abuzz with excitement as Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, announced his highly anticipated comeback concert series, 'This Is It.' The shows, scheduled to take place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, promised to be a spectacular farewell tour, featuring a star-studded lineup and a medley of Jackson's greatest hits.

On June 25, 2009, tragedy struck when Michael Jackson passed away, leaving fans around the globe in shock and grief. The 'This Is It' concerts, which were set to begin just days later, were subsequently canceled.

However, in a bittersweet tribute to the legendary performer, the producers of the concert series decided to compile a documentary film, also titled 'This Is It,' which would feature rehearsal footage and behind-the-scenes glimpses of Jackson's final days. The film, released on October 28, 2009, provided an intimate look at Jackson's creative process and offered a poignant insight into his life.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the documentary is the inclusion of 'extras' or bonus features, which provide additional context and insight into Jackson's artistry. 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' refers to a collection of bonus features that offer a deeper dive into the making of the concert film.

The Extras: A Deeper Dive into Jackson's Artistry

The 'extras' section of 'This Is It' includes a range of fascinating features, such as interviews with Jackson's choreographer, Vincent Paterson, and the show's musical director, Michael McDonald. These interviews offer a glimpse into Jackson's creative process and provide insight into his approach to music and performance.

One of the most poignant features in 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' is a behind-the-scenes look at Jackson's rehearsals. The footage shows Jackson tirelessly rehearsing his choreography, perfecting his dance moves, and working with his team to bring his vision to life. Title: The King in Rehearsal: Unpacking the Hidden

The extras also include a feature on Jackson's iconic costume designs, which were created specifically for the 'This Is It' concerts. The intricate costumes, designed by Giovanni Santini, were a testament to Jackson's attention to detail and his commitment to creating a visually stunning show.

A Glimpse into Jackson's Final Performance

For fans of Michael Jackson, 'This Is It' offers a bittersweet glimpse into what could have been. The documentary film and its accompanying extras provide a unique insight into Jackson's final days and offer a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy as a performer.

The 'This Is It' concerts, which were set to be Jackson's final performances, promised to be a spectacular farewell tour. The shows were designed to be a celebration of Jackson's life and career, featuring a range of his greatest hits, including 'Billie Jean,' 'Beat It,' and 'Thriller.'

Although the concerts were ultimately canceled, 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' provides a fascinating glimpse into what could have been. The extras offer a behind-the-scenes look at Jackson's creative process and provide insight into his approach to music and performance.

The Legacy of 'This Is It'

In the years since its release, 'This Is It' has become a beloved tribute to Michael Jackson's enduring legacy. The documentary film and its accompanying extras have provided fans with a unique insight into Jackson's life and artistry, and have served as a poignant reminder of his impact on popular culture.

The 'This Is It' concerts may have been canceled, but the documentary film and its extras have ensured that Jackson's final performance will live on in the hearts of fans around the world. 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' is a must-see for fans of the King of Pop, offering a fascinating glimpse into his creative process and providing a poignant insight into his life.

The Impact of 'This Is It' on Pop Culture

The release of 'This Is It' in 2009 sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with fans and critics alike eagerly anticipating the documentary film. The movie's success was a testament to Jackson's enduring popularity and his impact on popular culture.

The 'This Is It' documentary and its extras have been widely praised for their intimate and revealing portrayal of Jackson's life and artistry. The film has been credited with inspiring a new generation of fans and providing a fresh perspective on Jackson's legacy.

In the years since its release, 'This Is It' has become a cultural touchstone, with references to the documentary film appearing in music, film, and television. The movie's influence can be seen in the work of artists such as Beyoncé, Kanye West, and Bruno Mars, who have all cited Jackson as an inspiration.

Conclusion

'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' is a fascinating glimpse into the life and artistry of the King of Pop. The extras provide a unique insight into Jackson's creative process and offer a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy as a performer.

The 'This Is It' documentary film and its accompanying extras have become a beloved tribute to Jackson's life and artistry, and have served as a poignant reminder of his impact on popular culture. For fans of Michael Jackson, 'This Is It' is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the life and artistry of one of the most iconic performers of all time.

The 2009 home video release of Michael Jackson's This Is It is widely considered a gold standard for posthumous tributes, largely due to its extensive "making-of" bonus content. While the main feature focuses on the stage performances, the extras provide a technical and emotional look at Jackson's meticulous creative process. Core Special Features

The following features are standard on both the DVD and Blu-ray releases:

Staging the Return: A two-part documentary ("The Adventure Begins" and "Beyond the Show") that serves as the centerpiece. It details how the 50-date residency was conceived and how Jackson personally directed every technical element, from hydraulics to lighting.

The Gloved One: A focused look at the elaborate costumes designed by Zaldy. It showcases pieces like the new "Billie Jean" suit embedded with strobe lights and an updated "Thriller" jacket.

Memories of Michael: A sentimental featurette where the cast and crew share personal stories and their experiences working with Jackson during his final months.

Auditions (Searching for the World's Greatest Dancers): A look at the intense selection process for the backup dancers, highlighting the emotional weight the tour held for the performers. Blu-ray Exclusive Content

The Blu-ray version includes approximately 30-40 minutes of additional footage not found on the standard DVD:

"Smooth Criminal" Vignette: The full, high-definition version of the film noir-style short film created for the tour, featuring Jackson inserted into classic gangster movie clips.

"Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal" Featurettes: Detailed breakdowns of how these specific stage segments were modernized with 3D effects and green screen technology.

Meet the Band & Vocalists: Profiles of the musicians and singers, including rehearsal highlights for songs like "Jam" and "Human Nature".

These documentaries provide a behind-the-scenes look at the technical ambition and rehearsal process for the tour: This Is It | Staging The Return | 2009 87 views · 4 months ago YouTube · Behind The Camera Michael Jackson - This Is It Extras | Memories of Michael 91 views · 9 months ago YouTube · The NG Concerts

Additional Extras

  • "Smooth Criminal" Vignette: The full short film created for the background screens, featuring Michael inserted into scenes from the original 1940s film Gilda (from which the song samples dialogue). This was a highlight of the planned concert.
  • "Thriller" Vignette: The extended background video created for the "Thriller" performance, featuring new CGI footage and the infamous graveyard sequence.
  • Movie Trailers: Theatrical trailers for the This Is It film.

(Note: Standard DVD editions often have fewer extras, usually combining the "Staging the Return" segments into one featurette, whereas the 2-Disc Blu-ray edition contains the full breakdown listed above.)

This guide covers the bonus features found on Disc 1 (or the primary single-disc release) of the 2009 documentary Michael Jackson's This Is It. These extras provide a deeper look at the technical rehearsals and the creative team behind the residency. 💿 Core Featurettes Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins Focus: The initial planning phases of the O2 residency.

Key Insight: Interviews with director Kenny Ortega and AEG Live executives.

Highlights: Shows the transition from Michael's "retirement" to the ambitious "This Is It" concept. Staging the Return: Beyond the Show Focus: The high-tech production elements.

Key Insight: Details the LED screens (the largest ever used at the time) and the "Lightman" suit.

Highlights: Footage of Michael interacting with the pyrotechnics and stage illusions. The Gloved One: Costumes Focus: The wardrobe designed by Zaldy.

Key Insight: Modernizing Michael’s iconic looks with Swarovski crystals and LED technology.

Highlights: A close-up look at the "Billie Jean" jacket and the "Thriller" redesign. Memories of Michael Focus: Personal tributes from the crew. Key Insight: Filmed shortly after Jackson’s passing.

Highlights: Emotional reflections on his work ethic and kindness during the final weeks of rehearsal. 🕺 Audition & Talent Features Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers Focus: The grueling selection process.

Key Insight: Over 5,000 dancers auditioned for only 12 spots.

Highlights: Michael personally watching the final callbacks and selecting the "chosen" few. Meet the Dancers Focus: Profiles of the 11 men and 1 woman selected.

Key Insight: Shows their backgrounds and what Michael Jackson meant to their careers. 🎬 Technical Extras The "Smooth Criminal" Vignette Focus: The "Mini-Movie" filmed for the concert.

Key Insight: Michael was digitally inserted into classic 1940s noir films like Gilda.

Highlights: Comparison between the green screen footage and the finished 3D effect. The "Thriller" Vignette Focus: The updated graveyard sequence.

Key Insight: Filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles to be projected in 3D. 💡 Viewer Tips

Audio Settings: Check the "Audio" menu; most releases include a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track which is significantly better than the standard DVD mix.

Photo Gallery: Includes rare production stills and sketches of the stage design not seen in the film. To help you get the most out of this,

Technical Details for Collectors

For those searching for this specific physical media:

  • Format: Appears on Blu-ray (Disc 1, under "Bonus") and DVD (Disc 2).
  • Region: Available in Region 1 (US/Canada), Region 2 (Europe/Japan), and Region 4 (Australia).
  • Runtime: The combined runtime of "Extras 1" is exactly 1:44:32 (including credits).
  • Resolution: The footage in Extras 1 is not upscaled from the theatrical master. It is rougher, with more visible grain and on-set audio bleed (you can hear Ortega whispering cues). This is intentional—it feels like a bootleg.
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