“We have assembled an incredible team of artists for this project—hair & makeup, costumes, cinematography, choreography, lighting, everything. Some who knew and worked with Michael are reuniting for this film. But most importantly, it’s Jaafar who embodies Michael. It goes beyond the physical resemblance. It’s Michael’s spirit that comes through in a magical way. You have to experience it to believe it.”

The film’s cast includes big names such as Miles Teller, Colman Domingo, and Nia Long, further elevating expectations.

The Script Controversy: Why Reshoots May Be Necessary

The latest reports suggest that the Michael Jackson biopic may need to be reworked due to legal complications. Specifically, the script reportedly includes the 1993 sexual abuse investigation involving 13-year-old Jordan Chandler—but there’s a major issue.

A settlement agreement from the case reportedly includes a clause prohibiting any dramatization of the Chandler family. This means that the film’s creative team may have unknowingly breached a legal agreement, only discovering this after filming was completed.

The revelation could lead to costly reshoots, script adjustments, or even legal battles that could delay or alter the film’s final version.

Michael Jackson’s Troubled History and Legal Battles

While the Michael Jackson biopic is expected to celebrate Jackson’s groundbreaking career, the inclusion of his legal troubles was always going to be a delicate and controversial decision.

Jackson’s 1993 settlement with the Chandlers did not lead to criminal charges, but the accusations resurfaced a decade later in 2003, when Jackson was charged with seven counts of committing a lewd act upon a child. The case involved a cancer-stricken boy who alleged that Jackson had served him alcohol and molested him.

Jackson pleaded not guilty and was acquitted of all charges in 2005. However, his legacy remained clouded by controversy.

‘Leaving Neverland’ and the Impact of Posthumous Allegations

Following Jackson’s 2009 death from acute propofol intoxication, new allegations surfaced in the 2019 HBO documentary Leaving Neverland. The film featured detailed accounts from Wade Robson and James Safechuck, both of whom alleged that Jackson sexually abused them as children.

Robson and Safechuck had previously defended Jackson during his lifetime, but later filed lawsuits against Jackson’s estate, claiming long-term psychological damage. The lawsuits were initially dismissed but have since been revived in ongoing litigation.

Jackson’s estate and family have vehemently denied all allegations, calling Leaving Neverland a “public lynching” designed for financial gain.

The inclusion of these legal battles in ‘Michael’ was expected to be controversial, but with the new script issues, Lionsgate may be forced to make significant adjustments.

What Happens Next? Will ‘Michael’ Still Release on Time?

The initiative will be structured into three stages:

1. Script Development and Virtual Consultation: Teams will work with mentors to refine their story treatments and scripts through virtual sessions.
2. Pre-Shoot Planning: Detailed planning will help participants prepare for filming, ensuring smooth production workflows.
3. In-Person Post-Production in Saudi Arabia: Teams will edit and finalise their films with professional guidance, honing their technical and creative skills.

Through this hands-on approach, participants will gain valuable experience across all aspects of filmmaking, from ideation to final output.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

The program is open to women under 28 years old who have directed no more than one short film outside their academic studies. Applicants must submit:

• A story treatment and a draft script for a short fiction film.
• A team structure, including at least a writer, director, and producer.

For those without complete teams, the program offers an online matchmaking process to pair applicants with technical talents like cinematographers or editors.

An independent jury will select five projects based on quality, creativity, and originality, ensuring that only the most compelling stories move forward.

A Legacy of Supporting Arab Talent

For over 18 years, AFAC has played a pivotal role in nurturing Arab filmmakers and artists. Rima Mismar, AFAC’s Executive Director, shared her excitement about this collaboration:
“For the past 18 years, AFAC has supported the production of over 500 films. Partnering with Netflix allows us to extend our mentorship and financial support to a new generation of women filmmakers, providing them a platform to learn and experiment.”

AFAC’s long-standing reputation in the region ensures that this initiative will have a meaningful and lasting impact on the Arab film industry. Coupled with Netflix’s global reach, this partnership sets the stage for emerging female filmmakers to achieve international recognition.

Building on “Because She Created” Initiatives

Netflix has consistently championed gender equity through its “Because She Created” initiatives, which spotlight female creators in the Arab world. Last year, Netflix and AFAC introduced a training program to familiarise women with filmmaking roles behind the camera.

This new initiative builds on that foundation, offering women not only financial resources but also access to mentorship and a practical platform for storytelling. By equipping them with the skills and experience needed to succeed, Netflix and AFAC are actively closing the gender gap in the regional film industry.

Transforming Arab Storytelling

The initiative aims to foster unique voices that reflect the diverse experiences of Arab women. By bringing new perspectives to the screen, these stories have the potential to challenge stereotypes and highlight untold narratives.

Participants will also benefit from networking opportunities, industry exposure, and the chance to showcase their work to global audiences. This blend of financial, educational, and creative support is designed to empower women filmmakers not just as storytellers but as influential voices in shaping the cultural landscape of the Arab world.

How to Apply

Women interested in joining this transformative program can apply via the official AFAC and Netflix websites. Applications are open for:

1. Complete teams with a clear project plan.
2. Individuals seeking technical roles in cinematography, editing, or sound design.

By ensuring accessibility to diverse participants, the program underscores its commitment to inclusivity and collaboration.

A Bright Future for Arab Cinema

Through initiatives like “Women in Film – Bring Your Story to Life,” Netflix and AFAC are paving the way for a new era of Arab cinema. By nurturing emerging talent, particularly among women, they are reshaping the film industry to be more inclusive, diverse, and representative of the region’s rich cultural tapestry.

Netflix Partners with AFAC to Empower Female Filmmakers

With a focus on mentorship, collaboration, and authentic storytelling, this program promises to uncover hidden gems and bring fresh perspectives to the global stage. As the participants craft their short films, they will not only bring their stories to life but also contribute to the growing recognition of Arab cinema worldwide.

Applications are now open, and the next wave of groundbreaking filmmakers is ready to emerge.

By incorporating these journal entries, Burman provides an intimate glimpse into the Stockholm-born artist’s internal world, highlighting the immense burden he carried while captivating millions with his music.

The Duality of Tim and Avicii

A recurring theme in the documentary is the duality between Tim Bergling, the individual, and Avicii, the global superstar. While Bergling’s musical genius propelled him to international stardom, the immense pressure of maintaining the Avicii persona took a toll on his mental health.

Burman reveals that Bergling himself wanted any documentary about his life to address not just his triumphs but also his struggles. “He’d say things like, ‘If there’s a documentary, we need to talk about alcohol; we need to talk about the bad things in my life,’” Burman shared.

A Posthumous Tribute

Avicii’s untimely death by suicide in Muscat, Oman, in 2018 shocked the world and prompted a global conversation about mental health in the music industry. In 2019, the posthumous album “Tim” was released, featuring music Bergling had been working on before his passing. The album stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and artistic brilliance.

Avicii’s Legacy Revisited

“Avicii – I Am Tim” is more than just a documentary; it is a poignant exploration of the human behind the headlines. It highlights the importance of addressing mental health struggles, especially in high-pressure industries like entertainment. The film offers a touching and unvarnished look at an artist who gave so much to the world yet grappled with challenges that ultimately became insurmountable.

Avicii’s Legacy Revisited