This photograph is protected by United States copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, displayed, publ  Michael Jackson’s posthumous respect should be sealed this week with the release of "This Is It" -- the concert that never was becoming the sell-out movie that will break all records.  Sadly, there’s been a pre-release brouhaha about its truth and authenticity with wild suggestions of smart editing to hide M.J.’s true state, and amateur talk of digital enhancements to present a healthier-looking man. In death as in life, there is debate about what is real and fake surrounding this performer.  A dedicated Web site is now determined to vent hysterical claims that Michael was in “a dire state” whilst performing; that AEG ignored the "warning signs" and that, during 110 hours of footage, the performer rarely smiled because of his pain. What speculative nonsense.  In writing the Britney book ["Britney: Inside the Dream: The Biography"], I found myself speaking with many in the world of choreography where the circles of the pop princess collided with those of the King of Pop. I know friends of dancers who were going to share Michael Jackson’s comeback; who danced with him side by side in rehearsals; who witnessed his spirit backstage, daily. And here’s the truth. Here’s what it is: M.J. was “dancing with a superiority above that of 20 and 21-year-olds…he was going to blow people away.” He was “dancing as good as ever” and was “gung-ho about the tour and couldn’t wait to start.” These are the accounts of sources who were there, not fans who were not.  Steve Dennis is a writer and author of the new book "Britney: Inside the Dream: The Biography" which was published in October. To continue reading his complete column, click here.
This Is It is not about profiteering from death. It is about enshrining the memory of a legend.