The documentary will include unreleased footage and unpublished interviews.
An official documentary celebrating the 40th anniversary of Michael Jackson's legendary album 'Thriller' (1982) has been announced by Sony Music Entertainment.
Directed by journalist, music historian and filmmaker Nelson George, the film is currently in post-production. The documentary will focus on the making of Michael Jackson's historic album and the short films about his songs that redefined the form of music videos.
Released by Epic Records in 1982, 'Thriller' was Michael Jackson's second album as a solo artist. It received 12 Grammy nominations and won a record eight awards, including Album of the Year.
Seven singles from the album reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, with "Beat It" and "Billie Jean" both reaching No. 1. Since its release, "Thriller" has sold over of 100 million albums worldwide and became the first album to be certified triple diamond (or 30 times platinum) in the US.
The as-yet-untitled documentary, which will feature unreleased footage and unreleased interviews, will focus on how 'Thriller' elevated Michael Jackson to a music juggernaut and created a pop culture phenomenon that continues to influence the worlds music, television, dance, fashion and more.
"The release of 'Thriller' redefined Michael Jackson and transformed him from a teenage star into an adult superstar who wrote memorable songs, sang beautifully and reached the highest level of performance on stage," said Nelson George.c
“The album and the short films it inspired set a new standard for combining music and image. It was a privilege to explore this extraordinary album and relive its magic,” he added.
In May, Sony Music announced that on November 18, a 40th anniversary edition of 'Thriller' will be released on a double CD that will include the original album along with a bonus disc of unreleased songs that Michael Jackson recorded for 'Thriller' ».
The documentary by Optimum Productions and Sony Music Entertainment, produced by Company Name, is after 'Bad 25' and 'Michael Jackson's Journey from Motown to Off the Wall' the third documentary focusing on one of Michael Jackson's albums .
Michael Jackson's influence has also been honored in productions such as the 2009 film This Is It, Cirque du Soleil's show Michael Jackson ONE in Las Vegas, and the recent Broadway musical MJ The Musical.
"Michael opened up and explored emotional depths and pushed the boundaries of sonic innovation on 'Thriller,'" said John Branca and John McClain, co-executors of the Michael Jackson estate.
“Along the way, he broke down the pernicious barriers of the music industry and literally united the world through his music: there is no place on this planet that has not been thrilled by the music of Michael Jackson. Exploring Michael's process and impact in this documentary is revelatory," they stressed.
"Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' was an important and defining moment for both music and pop culture around the world," added Tom Mackay, President of Premium Content, Sony Music Entertainment.
“We are thrilled to expand the Estate's documentary series with our upcoming film and look forward to sharing it with fans around the world,” he continued.
Sony Music Entertainment will distribute the film. Company Name's Colin Hanks and Sean Stuart are producing, with John Branca and John McClain executive producing.
