“Michael Jackson’s Thriller” Reimagined: A Cinematic Masterpiece Returns in 3D
The iconic short film, “Michael Jackson’s Thriller,” is set to make a triumphant return to the big screen, reborn in a stunning 3D format. This global premiere, announced by the Michael Jackson Estate, will grace the prestigious 74th Venice Film Festival, running from August 30th to September 9th. Audiences worldwide are eagerly anticipating the chance to experience this groundbreaking work with newfound depth and clarity.
A Deep Dive into the Legacy and Lore
Adding another layer of excitement, the festival will also feature an exclusive screening of the documentary detailing the intricate making of “Michael Jackson’s Thriller.” This compelling behind-the-scenes look was originally available on VHS from 1983 to 1990 but has remained out of circulation in any other format since. Its theatrical release at Venice marks a significant historical moment, offering fans an unprecedented opportunity to delve into the creative process of this cinematic landmark.
Upon its initial premiere in 1983 at the Avco Theatre in Los Angeles, “Thriller” was an instant sensation, selling out for an astonishing three consecutive weeks. This 14-minute masterpiece didn’t just entertain; it fundamentally redefined the music video genre. Through its innovative use of cinematic techniques and a narrative structure often reserved for feature films, it elevated music videos to an art form. The short film was the brainchild of Michael Jackson’s admiration for John Landis’s 1981 horror-comedy, “An American Werewolf in London.” Landis, who directed “Thriller” and co-wrote its script with Jackson, expressed a sense of completion, noting how “Thriller” has now come “full circle.”
The Meticulous Restoration and Enhancement Process
“All the ‘Thriller’ movies out there are pirated,” Landis shared with Billboard, highlighting the widespread unauthorized versions that have circulated over the years. “It’s just wrong. Now, with digital technology, we can not only restore it, but really enhance it. Michael and I always intended for people to see it in a movie theater.” He stressed, “But we didn’t just restore ‘Thriller’; we enhanced it.”
Under Landis’s careful supervision, Optimum Productions undertook a painstaking restoration. Their initial step involved creating a high-resolution version directly from the original 35mm film negative. This meticulous process ensured that the core visual integrity of the film remained untouched, with no cuts or alterations. Beyond the visuals, all the music was expertly remixed, promising an unparalleled auditory experience to complement the fresh visual presentation.
An Unforgettable 3D Experience Awaits
Landis gave a tantalizing preview of the 3D version, hinting at “spectacular visual effects” and a significant surprise awaiting audiences. He confirmed that the new rendition “takes full advantage of the 3D,” promising an immersive experience that will bring the iconic choreography and chilling atmosphere to life in ways never before seen.
John Branca, co-executor of the Michael Jackson Estate, eloquently described the restored and upgraded “Thriller” as “a pure, visceral, and still impactful work.” He emphasized the profound effect of seeing it “on a big cinema screen, in a theatrical environment with a great sound system,” calling it “an amazing experience.” Branca also noted Michael Jackson’s own inclination towards 3D technology, which he explored during his “This Is It” tour. “So this was a direction he was going in. I think he would have loved it,” Branca concluded, underscoring the fidelity of this project to Jackson’s artistic vision.
A Historic Milestone and Future Revelations
Branca, joined by fellow co-executor John McClain, will accompany Landis’s team at the Venice Film Festival for the screenings of both “Michael Jackson’s Thriller 3D” and its invaluable companion documentary, “Making of Michael Jackson’s Thriller 3D.” As Jackson’s former attorney, Branca played a pivotal role in negotiating the original groundbreaking deals with MTV and Showtime, which provided the crucial financing for the original short film. These deals not only made “Thriller” possible but also forever changed the landscape of music television. Further exciting details regarding “Michael Jackson’s Thriller 3D” are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
“Thriller” stands as an indelible part of pop culture history, and its significance is formally recognized by its induction into the Library of Congress’s National Film Registry. It holds the unique distinction of being the only music video ever to receive this prestigious honor, cementing its status as an enduring work of cinematic art. Its return in 3D is not just a revival; it’s a testament to its timeless power and enduring appeal.
