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