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Michael Jacksons This Is It 2009 Extras 1 <90% UPDATED>

Unveiling the Magic: A Deep Dive into Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) Extras

When Michael Jackson’s This Is It hit theaters in October 2009, it offered a bittersweet glimpse into what would have been the greatest concert residency in history. While the main feature captured the King of Pop’s perfectionism and vision, the Michael Jackson’s This Is It 2009 extras (specifically those found on Disc 1 of the special editions) provide the essential context that transforms the film from a concert documentary into a masterclass in artistry.

For fans and students of pop culture, these bonus features are more than just "deleted scenes"—they are the blueprints of a genius. The Foundation of a Final Vision

The first set of extras focuses on the monumental task of building the O2 Arena show from scratch. Unlike previous world tours, This Is It was designed to be a permanent, high-tech spectacle.

Staging the Return: In these clips, we see director Kenny Ortega and Jackson collaborating on the "Light Man" sequence. The extras detail the technical hurdles of integrating 3D CGI with live performance, a feat that was ahead of its time in 2009.

The Auditions: One of the most emotional segments in the extras is "Searching for the World’s Best Dancers." Out of over 5,000 applicants, only a handful were chosen. The footage captures the raw energy of dancers realizing they are about to perform with their idol, and Jackson’s gentle but firm guidance during their first rehearsals. The Musical Genius at Work

While the movie highlights the hits, the extras dive into the arrangements. Michael was famous for wanting the live performance to sound "just like the record," but with a "heavier" edge for the stadium setting.

The Sound: Features show Michael working with musical director Michael Bearden. You see MJ’s beatboxing—using his voice as a percussion instrument to explain exactly how he wants a bassline or a synth hit to feel.

The Band: The extras give much-needed spotlight to the musicians, including the legendary Orianthi on lead guitar. Watching Michael push her to hit the "Beat It" solo with more aggression is a standout moment for any music gearhead. Why the "Extras" Matter

The term "Michael Jackson’s This Is It 2009 extras 1" often refers to the core behind-the-scenes documentaries like Staging the Return and The Choreography. These aren't just filler; they humanize a global icon.

We see Michael in his "work clothes"—often just a blazer and sequined pants—marking out dance steps with the same precision at 50 that he had at 25. The extras strip away the tabloid noise of 2009 and refocus the narrative on his unparalleled work ethic. Legacy of the Footage

Ultimately, these bonus features serve as a historical record. They prove that despite the physical toll of his career, Jackson’s creative mind was sharper than ever. He wasn't just a performer; he was the primary architect of every frame, every lighting cue, and every snare hit.

For those revisiting the 2009 release, these extras remain the definitive look at the final curtain call of the greatest entertainer to ever grace the stage.

Deep Dive: Unlocking the Magic of "Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1"

When the documentary Michael Jackson's This Is It premiered in October 2009, it was more than a film; it was a eulogy, a celebration, and a time capsule. Directed by Kenny Ortega, the film cobbled together over 100 hours of rehearsal footage from the Staples Center in Los Angeles. But for the dedicated fan, the theatrical release was only the appetizer. michael jacksons this is it 2009 extras 1

The main course came with the home video release. On the DVD, Blu-ray, and digital downloads, a specific menu item has intrigued and delighted fans for over a decade: "Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1."

This article breaks down exactly what that menu tab contains, why it is essential viewing for any MJ scholar, and how it differs from the standard theatrical cut.

Why "Extras 1" Matters

The main This Is It film is a eulogy. Extras 1 is a testament. It removes the tabloid narrative of "Wacko Jacko" and replaces it with a mundane, beautiful reality: a 50-year-old artist working harder than any 20-year-old in the room.

For the casual viewer, these are just deleted scenes. For the historian, they are the Rosetta Stone of Michael Jackson's late career. They prove that This Is It was not a desperate cash grab, but a legitimate artistic evolution. In Extras 1, Michael Jackson isn't a legend fading away. He is a foreman on a construction site, building a cathedral of pop, brick by brick, click by click, until the very last night.

Verdict: If you only own the main film, you have only seen the photograph. Extras 1 is the negative—the raw, unexposed truth of a genius at work.

This guide covers the bonus features found on Disc 1 (or the primary single-disc release) of the 2009 documentary Michael Jackson's This Is It. These extras provide a deeper look at the technical rehearsals and the creative team behind the residency. 💿 Core Featurettes Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins Focus: The initial planning phases of the O2 residency.

Key Insight: Interviews with director Kenny Ortega and AEG Live executives.

Highlights: Shows the transition from Michael's "retirement" to the ambitious "This Is It" concept. Staging the Return: Beyond the Show Focus: The high-tech production elements.

Key Insight: Details the LED screens (the largest ever used at the time) and the "Lightman" suit.

Highlights: Footage of Michael interacting with the pyrotechnics and stage illusions. The Gloved One: Costumes Focus: The wardrobe designed by Zaldy.

Key Insight: Modernizing Michael’s iconic looks with Swarovski crystals and LED technology.

Highlights: A close-up look at the "Billie Jean" jacket and the "Thriller" redesign. Memories of Michael Focus: Personal tributes from the crew. Key Insight: Filmed shortly after Jackson’s passing.

Highlights: Emotional reflections on his work ethic and kindness during the final weeks of rehearsal. 🕺 Audition & Talent Features Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers Focus: The grueling selection process. Unveiling the Magic: A Deep Dive into Michael

Key Insight: Over 5,000 dancers auditioned for only 12 spots.

Highlights: Michael personally watching the final callbacks and selecting the "chosen" few. Meet the Dancers Focus: Profiles of the 11 men and 1 woman selected.

Key Insight: Shows their backgrounds and what Michael Jackson meant to their careers. 🎬 Technical Extras The "Smooth Criminal" Vignette Focus: The "Mini-Movie" filmed for the concert.

Key Insight: Michael was digitally inserted into classic 1940s noir films like Gilda.

Highlights: Comparison between the green screen footage and the finished 3D effect. The "Thriller" Vignette Focus: The updated graveyard sequence.

Key Insight: Filmed on a soundstage in Los Angeles to be projected in 3D. 💡 Viewer Tips

Audio Settings: Check the "Audio" menu; most releases include a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track which is significantly better than the standard DVD mix.

Photo Gallery: Includes rare production stills and sketches of the stage design not seen in the film. To help you get the most out of this,

The special features and extras included in the 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It

offer over an hour of never-before-seen content that provides a deep dive into the concert's ambitious production. DVD and Blu-ray Special Features

The 2009 home media releases included several key documentaries and featurettes: Staging the Return

: A two-part making-of documentary that detail the overall development and technical orchestration of the This Is It residency. The Gloved One – Costumes

: A focused look at the elaborate stage outfits designed for the show, including specialized trousers for "Billie Jean" that featured remote-controlled flashing lights. Memories of Michael Deep Dive: Unlocking the Magic of "Michael Jackson's

: A 16-minute tribute where colleagues and crew members share personal stories and their experiences working closely with Jackson during his final months. Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers

: An inside look at the rigorous selection process for the backup dancers who would have joined Jackson on stage. The Musical Experience

: A featurette focusing on the band and musical direction of the show. Post-Credits Content

The film itself contains two notable scenes after the initial closing credits: "Human Nature" Rehearsal

: A clip of Michael rehearsing the song roughly two weeks before his passing. Final Message

: A video of the young girl from the "Earth Song" vignette holding the earth, followed by Michael’s signature and his final message to fans: "I love you". Related Media The Soundtrack Album

: Released alongside the film, this two-disc set includes the titular song "This Is It" in both standard and orchestral versions, as well as early demo recordings of hits like "She’s Out of My Life," "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," and "Beat It". mentioned in these extras?

Michael Jackson's This Is It DVD 2009 Special Features Kenny Ortega

The 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It features extensive behind-the-scenes content highlighting the production of his planned final concert residency, including documentaries "The Adventure Begins" and "Beyond the Show". Featurettes on the first disc focus on costume design, dancer auditions, and cast memories, with exclusive Blu-ray content including specialized 3D screen vignettes like "Smooth Criminal". For a detailed breakdown of the two-disc set, visit Michael Jackson's This Is It [Blu-Ray] (2009)

The Crown Jewel: Extended Vocal Performances

The most valuable aspect of "Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1" is the audio. In the theatrical film, many songs were truncated or edited for pacing. However, within Extras 1, we get pristine, extended audio/video of Jackson running through his catalog.

The "Dancing Machine" Rehearsals

The main film gives you the polished highlights. The extras give you the process. There is a raw, unedited rehearsal of “The Way You Make Me Feel” that isn't in the theatrical cut. Watching Michael work through the blocking with the dancers is mesmerizing. He isn't performing for a camera here; he’s teaching. You see the perfectionist at work—adjusting a hand movement by two inches, snapping his fingers to correct the tempo.

What is "Extras 1"? Defining the Feature

On the two-disc "Deluxe Edition" (and the single-disc "Ultimate Fan Edition" internationally), the extras are usually split into two or three sections. "Extras 1" is the primary vault. It is not a single scene, but a curated playlist of supplementary material that runs approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Crucially, "Extras 1" is distinct from "Extras 2" (which usually contains The Unfinished Rehearsals montage or the "Smooth Criminal" making-of). Extras 1 is the goldmine. It contains:

  1. "Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins" (Featurette)
  2. "The Gloved One: Costume Design" (Featurette)
  3. "Memories of Michael" (Interviews)
  4. "Auditions: Searching for the World's Best Dancers"
  5. Full rehearsal performances of "Human Nature" and "The Way You Make Me Feel" (Extended cuts)

How to Access It Today

With the rise of streaming, most platforms (Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ in some regions) only carry the theatrical cut. They do not include "Extras 1."

To watch the full "michael jacksons this is it 2009 extras 1" today, you must:

  1. Purchase a used physical copy (Blu-ray is best for audio quality).
  2. Check the "iTunes Extras" section if you bought the digital version prior to 2015.
  3. Search fan-uploaded archives (though note that many have been removed or downgraded due to Sony Music copyrights).