What can be written about the King of Pop that hasn’t already been written? Michael Jackson had a life and career that was unlike any other, which is why it was so well documented. He experienced the highest of the highs and the lowest of the lows. Perhaps the only thing left for fans is to do is simply continue appreciating his music.

Michael Jackson’s music videos were as much a part of his creative output as were his songs. The term “music video” doesn’t do justice to what he created for MTV. With the help of some very accomplished Hollywood filmmakers, Michael took videos to an entirely different level. He created cinematic works of art.

For this installment of the Throwback Threesome, we’ll look at three examples of the visual artistry Michael Jackson built around some of this biggest hit songs. And we’ll begin with what is widely considered to be the greatest music video of all time.

Throwback Threesome: Michael Jackson

• Thriller (1982)

  With the release of “Thriller” in 1982, Michael’s videos had evolved into short films. Directed by Hollywood heavyweight John Landis, “Thriller” became the first music video inducted into the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry.

• Bad (1987)

  Michael Jackson’s visual work continued to expand with 1987’s “Bad.” It was directed by Academy Award-winner Martin Scorsese and featured actor Wesley Snipes.

• Smooth Criminal (1988)

  The video for “Smooth Criminal” was inspired by Fred Astaire’s 1953 movie musical, The Band Wagon. It was also included in Michael Jackson’s own 1988 film, Moonwalker.

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