Tamil and Malayalam actor Rahman took to social media on Friday, April 25, 2025, to express that he was 'absolutely overwhelmed' after watching 'Michael', the newly released biographical film on pop icon Michael Jackson. Catching the film on its very first day and first show, Rahman described the experience as nothing short of magical, calling it one of the most emotionally resonant cinematic moments he had witnessed in recent years.

Rahman's Emotional First-Day Reaction

Sharing his thoughts on Instagram, the actor wrote that 'watching the biopic of Michael Jackson was nothing short of magical', adding that seeing his all-time hero come alive on the big screen was an 'unforgettable experience'. He revealed that the film transported him straight back to his childhood, flooding him with nostalgia and emotion.

Rahman, who also posted videos alongside a family member at the theatre, further praised the filmmaking, stating, 'The film is beautifully made, capturing the essence, brilliance, and spirit of a legend.' He specifically dedicated his enthusiasm to fans who 'grew up in the '70s and '80s', calling it a 'joyful, heartwarming experience'.

Malayalam Actress Revathi Also Praises the Film

Veteran Malayalam and Tamil actress Revathi also shared her admiration for the biopic, writing that watching 'Michael' took her back to the early 1980s when Michael Jackson's music was a cultural phenomenon across the globe. She described him as an artist of extraordinary charisma and stage presence.

Revathi went a step further, reflecting on the deeper lessons the film offers, writing that there is 'a lot to learn about dedication, focus and being sensitive to the world around', and emphasising her belief that 'art and music can change the world'. She concluded her tribute with the words 'in memory of MJ'.

About the Film: Director, Cast and Storyline

'Michael' is a biographical drama directed by acclaimed filmmaker Antoine Fuqua, known for his work on high-impact cinema. The film chronicles the life of American pop legend Michael Jackson, spanning his early days with the Jackson 5 in the 1960s through to his iconic Bad World Tour of the 1980s.

In a landmark casting choice, Michael Jackson's own nephew, Jaafar Jackson, portrays the King of Pop in his film debut. The younger version of Jackson is played by Juliano Krue Valdi, also making his screen debut. The supporting cast features an impressive ensemble including Nia Long, Laura Harrier, Jessica Sula, Mike Myers, Miles Teller, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, and Colman Domingo.

Why This Biopic Matters Beyond Entertainment

The release of 'Michael' arrives at a culturally significant moment, as global audiences continue to grapple with the complex legacy of one of the most celebrated — and controversial — entertainers in history. The film's arrival has reignited conversations around Michael Jackson's unparalleled influence on global pop culture, particularly in India, where his music defined an entire generation during the 1980s and 1990s.

Notably, the fact that prominent Indian film personalities like Rahman and Revathi — who represent two of India's most respected regional film industries — are publicly celebrating the biopic speaks to the deep cultural imprint Michael Jackson left on South Asian audiences. Their reactions also reflect a broader trend of Indian cinema audiences embracing international biographical films with growing enthusiasm.

With strong early word-of-mouth from celebrities and fans alike, 'Michael' is poised to perform well at the Indian box office in the coming weeks, particularly among audiences aged 35 and above who grew up during the height of Jackson's global dominance.