"MICHAEL JACKSON THIS IS IT" TO BE PRESENTED EXCLUSIVELY FOR TWO-WEEK LIMITED ENGAGEMENT AROUND THE WORLD

TICKETS TO GO ON SALE SEPTEMBER 27. INTIMATE PORTRAIT OF MICHAEL JACKSON AS YOU'VE NEVER SEEN HIM BEFORE TO HIT THEATERS WORLDWIDE OCTOBER 28

CULVER CITY, Ca., August 20, 2009 - Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment announced today that Michael Jackson THIS IS IT will be released exclusively for a special, limited, two-week engagement worldwide, with the studio pushing up the debut of the film by two days, to Wednesday, October 28th. Due to the anticipated demand for this film, tickets for the two-week presentation will go on sale in most cities beginning on Sunday, September 27th.
Separately, the producers of Michael Jackson THIS IS IT announced that Kenny Ortega has been set to direct the motion picture.  The film is being produced with the full support of The Estate of Michael Jackson.

Commenting on the announcement, Ortega, director of and Jackson's creative partner on the THIS IS IT concert, said, "This film is a gift to Michael's fans. As we began assembling the footage for the motion picture we realized we captured something extraordinary, unique and very special. It's a very private, exclusive look into a creative genius's world. For the first time ever, fans will see Michael as they have never seen him before – this great artist at work. It is raw, emotional, moving and powerful footage that captures his interactions with the THIS IS IT collaborators that he had personally assembled for this once in a lifetime project. This film shows a consummate performer working with and guiding singers, dancers, band members, choreographers, special effects creators and countless other creative members of the team as we all assemble this historic concert.  I can think of many words to describe Michael as he rehearses for and creates THIS IS IT– inspirational, dynamic, generous, dedicated, loving and the guiding force—you see him as the true architect and driving force of this project – a true master of his craft, the Entertainer of Entertainers.  I'm proud of the many years of friendship and creative association I shared with Michael and I'm happy that people will get a chance to see his spirit and drive in action. THIS IS IT may go down as the greatest concert that no one got a chance to see, but with this film, we get a rare portrait of Michael as he prepares for his final curtain call and what I believe was going to be his master work."

 Michael Jackson THIS IS IT will offer Jackson fans and music lovers worldwide a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the performer as he developed, created and rehearsed for his sold-out concerts that would have taken place beginning this summer in London's O2 Arena. Chronicling the months from April through June, 2009, the film is drawn from more than one hundred hours of behind-the-scenes footage, featuring Jackson rehearsing a number of his songs for the show. Audiences will be given a privileged and private look at the singer, dancer, filmmaker, architect, and genius as he creates and perfects his final show.
"I have never been partners with a more creative, innovative or groundbreaking entertainer than Michael Jackson," said Randy Phillips, President & CEO, AEG LIVE and producer of Michael Jackson THIS IS IT.  "While the concerts would have been the greatest shows in the history of music, our film will provide a historic event for Michael's fans to see for themselves the genius that he was and the creativity, talent and imagination that the entire cast devoted to create the ‘greatest concert that never happened'."

In the coming weeks, additional information about the film will be available at www.michaeljackson.com.
Dubbed the Billion Dollar Maestro by Daily Variety, Kenny Ortega has conquered Feature Films, Television, Stage, Concerts and massive Live Events such as The Olympics with equal excellence. As Michael Jackson's director and creative partner on THIS IS IT as well as the previous Jackson concert tours DANGEROUS and HISTORY, Mr. Ortega has been a friend, trusted colleague and collaborator of Michael Jackson's for over 20 years.
Kenny will segue from directing the film version of THIS IS IT to directing the Paramount feature film Footloose this fall.  The multiple Emmy Award winner famously directed and visualized Disney's billion-dollar High School Musical franchise of films both for Television and as a Feature Film.  Kenny directed the fastest selling concert tour in history, the Hannah Montana / Miley Cyrus "Best of Both Worlds Tour" featuring The Jonas Bros.  This tour broke numerous records and extended its sell out tour by more than 20 shows.  He also directed to tremendous praise the Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, Utah.

About Sony Pictures Entertainment
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America (SCA), a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in more than 130 countries.
Sony Pictures Entertainment can be found on the World Wide Web at www.sonypictures.com

About Sony Music Entertainment 
Sony Music Entertainment is a global recorded music company with a roster of current artists that includes a broad array of both local artists and international superstars. The company boasts a vast catalog that comprises some of the most important recordings in history. It is home to premier record labels representing music from every genre, including American Recordings, Arista Nashville, Arista Records, Aware, Battery Records, Beach Street Records, Black Seal, BNA Records, Cinematic, Columbia Nashville, Columbia Records, Epic Records, Essential Records, Flicker Records, Fo-Yo Soul, GospoCentric, Hitz Committee Entertainment, J Records, Jive Records, LaFace Records, Legacy Recordings, Masterworks, Polo Grounds, RCA Records, RCA Nashville, RCA Red Seal, RCA Victor, Reunion Records, Slightly Dangerous, Sony Classical, Sony Music Latin, Star Time International, Verity Records, and Volcano Entertainment. Sony Music Entertainment is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America. For more information, visit www.sonymusic.com.

Comments for this News article

" We, the worldwide fan community who love, respect and honour Michael Jackson are united in their defiance of Shmuley's act of betrayal. We do not support this book in any way. It is a total violation of Michael's right to privacy, and we believe the publication of the content of these tapes to be a breach of the trust Michael placed in Shmuley. We, the members of the worldwide fan community will not join Shmuley in his betrayal, and we will not help him profit from his deception of Michael. Not only will we not buy the book, we also send a clear message to all others who seek to attack the truth, beauty and integrity of Michael's memory. This statement is a declaration of our intent. We as a community will not support or tolerate any such attacks on Michael's name, memory or legacy in any way, and we actively protect Michael's legacy and rights - not only for Michael and his children who survive him, but for all of us who choose to honour what Michael achieved, endured and gave here. He lives whenever and wherever he is remembered. And we choose to remember him with love. "

This is a worldwide call to all the fans: Please paste this ' Declaration of Intent ' everywhere on youtube, facebook and every Michael Jackson site worldwide. Shmuley will be attempting to sell this book worldwide. We, the fans can limit his effectiveness by letting everyone know this book is available for download. We, the fans support the products and initiatives Sony and the ' Estate' produce as this benefits Michael's estate and his children. That is why the fans community supports this site, but we will not allow Shmuley and other opportunists to profit from Michael's death and, more than that, we will not the beautiful memory of Michael to be dishonoured and taken away from us. Please paste this everywhere and note that the book this statement refers to is available for audio play free at youtube and download free at the Forum part of this site and other public access sites. If you have already bought Shmuley's book, why not return it and get your money back.

Where do I begin..
Lets see... Well at the age of 4 michael who was 10 grabbed my heart with his electric smile and dancing. I thought "What a cute Little Boy",,, That was it for me! I was forever in love with him> When I was a teenager I used to write him all the time... I did get a letter back, My dad was ever so kind to burn it up instead of sending it to me ,As I had got married and moved to Arizona. He felt I didnt deserve to get my letter from Michael. That burns me to this day! How ever Michael was a very big part of my engagement, As my husband preposed to me to Lady In My Life... That song was alway my favorite on the Thriller album and is to this day. Now the song has more meaning to me! I miss Michael, but one secret I held for over 22 years is that my eldest son is infact Named after Michael, I have never told a sould that not even my son, Untill the day Michael closed his beautiful eyes and went to sleep in death. On that day I finally told my son that he is infaact named after Michael Jackson...
now we all get a chance to see the master at work in this film. That I know is done in avery loving fashion. I can not wait my kids and I are all going to see it opening night and we are all wearing our Michael Jackson t-Shirts to honor the King of Pop... He is a one of a kindand deserves a one of a kind send out!! THIS IS IT people... LETS BURN IT UP And make it the BEST film of all time and an OSCAR winner!! IT's for M.J.8 grammies in the 80's how about 8 oscars in the millinemum! Go Michael burn this mother down!!!

I am a huge MJ fan in HOUSTON, TEXAS. I have introduced my children and their friends to MJ; there is now a new generation of fans. Please help us Houstonians in finding how and where to purchase tickets for this movie. Please tell us that we will be able to see it here. Sony is going to make a mint off of this in any event; just don't punish us that cannot afford to be scalped or cannot travel. This economy is hard enough. Keep in mind MJ; he would want ALL of his fans to experience his talent/essence/genious, especially the children. We want tickets--PLEASE HELP!!!!

Best MJ tribute music video ever:

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

We recently released a hip hop music video tribute for Michael's birthday entitled, Shining. This is probably one of the most thoroughly produced MJ tribute videos out there... amazing costumes, great lyrics, and tons of memorable and rare MJ video clips. Check it out if you love Michael, music, or videos.

You will not be disappointed.

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

I will be there with bells on. Got My black loafers and my white socks ready. Even contemplating a glitter glove. Damn Mike, you really set off a fire inside of me. Just wish you were here to perform these shows yourself. I am sure that you will be proud of your fans, and the turnout that this movie is going to bring. You were so loved. I am just 2 years younger than you, and I always kept up with you. Even from afar, when I was off doing my own thing, I never left you too far behind. Anytime I saw you on tv, or heard your name mentioned, or saw one of your videos it always delighted me. I saw you twice in concert, and was just amazed at the insight you had. Now we get to see the master at work, and how you brought it all together. Mike, even though I don't like the outcome of your life, I respect GOD'S decision to bring you home. I don't question the almighty creator, and the tears still flow, because I feel like something is missing in my life. But I know you don't want us to concentrate on your death, but you want us to celebrate your life, and that is what I plan to do.
Much Love to the Maestro of MUSIC
Love Ya
Melanie

I truly hope someone actually reads the comments. I have been a Michael Jackson Fan most all of my life. I grew up with him. Celebrated easch new video with a party.....he was part of my life and still is.
I believe that this should not be a limited engagement. I think it should be out there for every Michael Jackson fan to see. It would be a wonderful tribute to Michael to allow all of his fans to be able to see this.
I have never been able to see him in concert or perform live. And now, if this is limited, many Michael Jackson Fans, again, will miss out.

Rest in Peace Michael.....you are truly missed. Your Music touched my life and I am a better person for it. I am sorry about all the persecution you had to endure in life. Thank you for all you have done for this world......

Forever......Debbie

Best MJ tribute music video ever:

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

We just released a new hip hop music video tribute for Michael's birthday entitled, Shining. This is probably one of the most thoroughly produced MJ tribute videos out there... amazing costumes, great lyrics, and tons of memorable and rare MJ video clips. Check it out if you love Michael, music, or videos.

You will not be disappointed.

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

will be the movie available in entire Mexico? I can't wait, please say yes

Hi I want to know if the movie will be available in Mexico, because I'm a really Micahael's fan. I wait at the bottom of my heart the movie. Thank you.

I am a fan of Michael and have been since i was 8 years old and since I haven't been to one of his concerts and always dreamed of doing so, I think that it would be nice for me to go see his last rehearsal footage before his death and I too hope that it comes out on DVD so all of Michaels fans can own it I just read the book on Michael it was good but I want to read his autobiography. Does anyone know how much the tickets will be? if anyone finds out please let me know thank you and RIP MJ we miss you !!!!!

It's there a list of the cities where it will be showing??? Or are you guys planning on posting the list just one day before??

Best MJ tribute music video ever:

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

We just released a new hip hop music video tribute for Michael's birthday entitled, Shining. This is probably one of the most thoroughly produced MJ tribute videos out there... amazing costumes, great lyrics, and tons of memorable and rare MJ video clips. Check it out if you love Michael, music, or videos.

You will not be disappointed.

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

hey, hi can u plz tell me will the movie be shown in India as well?? how do we have an access to the tickets?? am just so excited for this whole thing !!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!
My b-day is Oct 31,so this is the best gift i could get, perfect time for a THRILLER!!!
THANKS GUYS!

Why for two weeks only ????!!!!..... Unless Sony is checking out the scale of interest?.... I do hope that every Michael's fan would be able to get DVDs of His last 100 hours rehearsals eventually !!!..... Sony, pleeease, be considerate to Michael's fans !!.... Rest in Peace, Michael... We will always be there for You...

Is it on sale in belgium either? Cos I need to go to see that one!

Best MJ tribute music video ever:

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

We just released a new hip hop music video tribute for Michael's birthday entitled, Shining. This is probably one of the most thoroughly produced MJ tribute videos out there... amazing costumes, great lyrics, and tons of memorable and rare MJ video clips. Check it out if you love Michael, music, or videos.

You will not be disappointed.

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

i cant wait i will be in front well where i can have the best view of the whole film and i wanted to know if they will show it in San Francisco California In The City Of San Bruno to be exact.

PS: Mwxico City broke the world record by having over 13thousand+ dancing thriller we did it to show how Mexico City is a BIG Michael Jackson Fan WE ALL love you and miss YOU

Im Super exsited about the movie i will b on front row but i was wondering if they will show it in San Francisco California?

PS: Que Viva Mexico we broke the world record over 13+thouseds of people danced to thriller we did it to show that Mexico City is a City FULL OF Michael Jackson Fans me being one of them

Uh, I hope this is eventually released on DVD for all of Michael's die hard fans to own in honor of his memory. And like someone else has stated, I hope it's the actual rehearsal of Michael's This Is It tour with him singing and dancing and not a behind the scenes look at the preparation. I don't even understand why it's being released in theatres in the first place. It should be released on DVD....PERIOD!!! Everyone is trying to make a buck off this precious man's passing.

RIP Michael. You may be gone but you will NEVER, EVER be forgotten!

It's great, i can not wait when i wil buy this tickets. I defiently go watch this movie in theater, i hope it will be greatest movie ever. If Michael Jackson did greatest show to show his perfomanance so Sony Pictures Entertainment must do greatest movie ever!!! I hope this will be in a DVD eather. And i really hope that this all 100 last hourse when MJ was alive will releese to. Becouse in my opinion if Sony Pictures Entertainment will do that they will make happy whole fans of King Of Pop Michael Jackson and it would be smart for them cuz they will make good money on that Smiling So everybody will be happy, Fans get his last 100 hours and Sony Pictures Entertainment get money Smiling Sorry for my bad english, i hope everybody will understand!!

I LOVE MICHAEL JACKSON!!! He was not only a great performanance, also he was a great person, great father and just a great man!!! RIP!!!! We will remember you always!!!

..

Well I really miss the pop legend. His legacy still remains in our heart. I want to buy this album.
I've been listening to his songs from my childhood. All those record breaking hits. I like to visit his website regularly.Nice to see you people here.

church chairs

Why can't they let us pre-book tickets? That way they will get a good idea of how many they will sell in advance. And where are we supposed to get the tickets from?

Why is it showing only for a limited period of 2 weeks? My prediction is it will be a sell-out and 2 weeks definitely wont be enough to allow all of Michael's millions of fans to see it! They could release the film for at least 4 weeks, then release a DVD of it for Christmas. I do hope there will be a DVD of it in time for Christmas? Even if they are fortunate enough to get tickets to see the film, I am sure the fans will also want a momento of our last glimpse of Michael in action. I know I would. I think Michael would want every one of his fans to have one not just the rich and fortunate. Plus it will compensate anyone unlucky enough not to be able to go, for whatever reason, if they can get the DVD later.

Come on Sony, open up and tell us what's happening, hasn't there been enough subtefuge?
Linda K (MJ Fan)

Are you serious?? Michael always loved his fans who never left him and supported him in his difficult time!!! So Only 14 days for Michael's fans????? All fans want to see him in his last film!!!

Not To Be Missed... Best MJ Tribute music video

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

We just released a new hip hop music video tribute for Michael's birthday entitled, Shining. This is probably one of the most thoroughly produced MJ tribute videos out there... amazing costumes, great lyrics, and tons of memorable and rare MJ video clips. Check it out if you love Michael, music, or videos.

You will not be disappointed

http://www.michaeljacksonshining.com

What is this!!?? I thought this would be treated like any other film release?? That's what Sony said when you bought the rights, NOW, tyou are only going to release it for TWO WEEKS ONLY??!!!

Come on Sony!! What are you doing?? This is crazy! I'm sure this is a marketing strategy of yours and let's hope it works but many ppl will not be able to see it for the limited amount of time you will show it, AND in limiteD amount of theaters. What I want to know is:

1. Where /what cities will be showing the movie
2. Where do we get tickets
3. How much will the tickets be
4. Will there be a DVD COMING OUT
5. WILL THERE BE A SOUNDTRACK COMING OUT?

I would hope all these questions are answered way before Sept. 27. I am extremely disappointed - this will not be treated like a regular release just as you promised when you bought the rights. But I am not surprised considering you how you disrespected Michael when Invincible came out.
Shame on you!

okay so are theynot gonna release it the same as any other film?! thats a bit unfair. considering alot of people might be very busy and is its only running for 2 weeks i doubt everyone that wants to see it will be able to. The tickets better not be stupidly expensive either! Oh and another thing will it be in all normal cinemas?? or just selected ones? Sony need to be answering alot of questions!
Really want to see this... never got to see him in person.
x

Hola soy de Monterrey , Mexico per sobre la pelicula tengo una duda va a salir en el cines 21 semanas solamente, pero en que marcas de cine estara dispoonible o solo en ciertos cines , las marcas de monterrey mas populares son mm cinemas, cinepolis , cinemark seria en este tipo de cines donde se estrenaria la pelicula, o solo cines exclusivo y el costo del boleto de cuanto seria?

Saludos, espero que me respondan

Te amo Michael

Hi fans, got the way to register for tickets when asked for zip code type 12345 and it will register you for tickets. Good Luck everyone.....xxxx

How do we get tickets. Ticketmaster? Theatre? I hope the information gets released on ticket purchasing. Is there a Fan Club we can join? We are all eager! I plan on seeing it several times! HB512MJ! I've never been to heaven so I pray he sees how much we love him! : )

How do we get tickets. Ticketmaster? Theatre? I hope the information gets released on ticket purchasing. Is there a Fan Club we can join? We are all eager! I plan on seeing it several times! HB512MJ! I've never been to heaven so I pray he sees how much we love him! : )

Im waiting for u honey, you are an angel, you are my everything.The best dancer in the planet.You are the only one in my heart.I love you...I miss u, happy bday Jacko.

Michael I will always love you and miss you. Your talent was immense.
I hope that Sony will put DVD/Bluray out of the This Is It movie, for those of us who aren't able to go to movies in the theater.
Happy Birthday Michael, I am sure you would have had a special one.
Ginger

Michael i love you so much i miss you 2. seems like just yesterday when me and mi family was sittin around dancin to your song billie jean & beat it!! and watchin the wiz. & now your gone. me & mi family was so sad when you died we cried for days. we especially cried at your memorial. & when paris said that your the greatest daddy & that she was gonna miss youu i just broke down... see in mi eyes your still alive becuase its just to unreal thats your gone. many times i wished that it was just a horrible nightmare & that i wish i would wake up but when i kept tryin to wake up it feelt more & moree like reality. and then i realized that your realii gone that i can never see your face again. that i can never hear your voice or hear your laugh again...)= many ppl are goin to try to imitate you but kno one can duplicate you cause your the one and only MICHAEL JACKSON!! we will never see another one like youu NEVER until the day we meet face to face & welcome each other home... )= but this is only good bye for now. i cant wait till i finally get to meet youu & see your face again.. REST IN PARADISE MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON!! & HAPPY 51ST BIRTHDAY!!!

Feliz cumplean~os Michael. Siempre estaras en mi corazon y tengo la suerte de aver nacido el mismo dia que tu y poder festejar mi cumple y el tuyo alavez. Te amo.

Hi ppl... It's great that theres going to be a movie comin out bout MJ. But who cares if its out 4 only 2 weeks we shud all SMILE Smiling (even though our hearts r aching LOL)

Sorry if this is a stupid question ...but where will the tickets go on sale....in the movie theater?

hello fellow michael jackson fans i have a quick question i am thrilled about this movie coming out Smiling does anyone know where we purchase tickets? im assuming at the local theater but i can be wrong so please and thank you just let me know Smiling

I think its a bit unfair their lettin the tickets go on sale on 27th of Sep, when ppl will be travelling bak from austria and wont be able to purchase them,

But still cant wait to see this movie tho guess have find a internet cafe in austria lol

WHEN
WHERE

we get the tickets for Spain?
Were to be put on sale yesterday, but nobody announced anything yet

hey, does anybody know what theaters in what states this is going to be played in? and how much the ticket cost? any information is greatly appeciated!! thanks so much(:

rest in peace michael<3

will this be available in australia\sydney? or is anything going to happen here as a tribute to michael jackson ? AUSTRALIA LOVES UU MICHAEL JACKSONN !! we need somthing to happpen here, i knoo soo many people that would go !! R.I.P MJ LOVEE U AND MISSS U.
you will stay alive in my heart 4ever !

come on guys, tried to register for tickets will not let you do it....... needs zip code we in the uk dont have them........................ we need tickets please help............

Why only 2 weeks? The tour was going to be over a year wasn't it? There is no way I'll be able to see this with only a 2 week showing. I live in AR and it probably won't be shown anywhere close to me. It's about a 4 hour drive to a "big" city. I wish they would let it run for at least 6 months and put it in smaller towns as well as the big towns. They would make more money and a lot more people would get a chance to go see it. Hopefully, it will come out on dvd soon and those who can see it will be able to buy it.

YEAH!! CAN WE GET A TICKET PRICE PLEASE??? HOW MUCH IS THIS THING GOING TO COST? BETTER NOT HAVE TO EMPTY MY BANK ACCOUNT FOR THIS. WE ARE FANS WHO HAVE SUPPORTED MJ & HIS CAREER ALL THESE YEARS! DON'T GOUGE US TO DEATH!!1