Living with Michael Jackson (2003)

Living with Michael Jackson is an interesting documentary in which the British journalist Martin Bashir interviewed the American singer Michael Jackson over eight months, from May 2002 to January 2003.  The documentary was first shown in the UK on February 3, 2003, and in the US three days later on ABC, introduced by Barbara Walters.

Here are the moments explored in this revealing film:

1. Neverland Ranch Tour: The documentary begins at Neverland Ranch, where Michael Jackson and Martin Bashir tour the estate’s grounds and even engage in a racecar match. Jackson shares insights into his songwriting process, highlighting that he composes lyrics first, allowing the music to write itself.
2. Painful Memories: While watching footage of the Jackson 5, Michael recalls the harsh treatment he faced at the hands of his father. He explains that this painful upbringing influenced his decision never to lay a hand on his own children.
3. Love Life and Changing Appearance: At the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas, Jackson discusses his love life, evolving appearance, and his children. His kids, Prince and Paris, wear masks to conceal their identities.
4. Berlin and the Baby Dangling Incident: The documentary takes us to Berlin, where the infamous baby dangling incident occurred. Jackson visits the Berlin Zoo, attends a charity auction, and receives a humanitarian award at the Bambi Awards.
5. Gavin Arvizo’s Interview: Back at Neverland, Gavin Arvizo, a young cancer survivor, is interviewed. He credits Jackson’s support for helping him overcome his illness. Jackson admits that sometimes Gavin slept in his bed while he slept on the floor.
6. Inspiration from Children: When asked about his involvement with children, Jackson responds that he gains joy because my greatest inspiration comes from kids.
7. Jackson’s Changing Appearance: In the final interview in Miami, Bashir questions Jackson about his face. Visibly upset, Jackson explains that he has only had two nose operations to facilitate his singing. He attributes his desire to change his appearance to his troubled youth and his father’s insults.

The documentary delivers an intimate look at the complex life of the King of Pop—a man who left an unforgettable mark on music, culture, and the world.