King of prep

Sure, this documentary of rehearsal footage for Michael Jackson’s planned concert comeback feels like a quick cash-in by promoter AEG, an attempt to recover its losses after the King of Pop died this past summer. But for many still-grieving fans it will offer one final glimpse at a masterful performer meticulously preparing a brand new megawatt stage show, choreography and 3-D animation designed to accompany his catalog of classic songs. Culled from 120 hours of HD video by High School Musical director and Jackson friend Kenny Ortega, This Is It follows Jackson and his creative team as they conceive the comeback that wasn’t meant to be. On the set list are Jackson favorites like “The Way You Make Me Feel,” “Billie Jean,” and “Man in the Mirror.” Rated PG.