The 2009 home video release of Michael Jackson's This Is It is widely considered a gold standard for posthumous tributes, largely due to its extensive "making-of" bonus content. While the main feature focuses on the stage performances, the extras provide a technical and emotional look at Jackson's meticulous creative process. Core Special Features
The following features are standard on both the DVD and Blu-ray releases:
Staging the Return: A two-part documentary ("The Adventure Begins" and "Beyond the Show") that serves as the centerpiece. It details how the 50-date residency was conceived and how Jackson personally directed every technical element, from hydraulics to lighting.
The Gloved One: A focused look at the elaborate costumes designed by Zaldy. It showcases pieces like the new "Billie Jean" suit embedded with strobe lights and an updated "Thriller" jacket.
Memories of Michael: A sentimental featurette where the cast and crew share personal stories and their experiences working with Jackson during his final months.
Auditions (Searching for the World's Greatest Dancers): A look at the intense selection process for the backup dancers, highlighting the emotional weight the tour held for the performers. Blu-ray Exclusive Content
The Blu-ray version includes approximately 30-40 minutes of additional footage not found on the standard DVD:
"Smooth Criminal" Vignette: The full, high-definition version of the film noir-style short film created for the tour, featuring Jackson inserted into classic gangster movie clips.
"Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal" Featurettes: Detailed breakdowns of how these specific stage segments were modernized with 3D effects and green screen technology.
Meet the Band & Vocalists: Profiles of the musicians and singers, including rehearsal highlights for songs like "Jam" and "Human Nature".
These documentaries provide a behind-the-scenes look at the technical ambition and rehearsal process for the tour: This Is It | Staging The Return | 2009 87 views · 4 months ago YouTube · Behind The Camera Michael Jackson - This Is It Extras | Memories of Michael 91 views · 9 months ago YouTube · The NG Concerts
Given the niche specificity of this keyword (which likely refers to the bonus disc or specific feature listed on DVD/Blu-ray menus from the 2009/2010 releases), this article will serve as a comprehensive guide, review, and historical analysis of that exact content.
In 2009, we watched This Is It looking for signs of sickness. In the Extras, we find signs of life. We see Michael joking with the choreographers, arguing about the speed of a cue, and drinking juice between takes.
These bonus features strip away the tragedy and leave you with the artist. They prove that even at 50, even under the weight of the world, Michael Jackson was still the most electric person in the room.
Final Verdict: If you only own the digital version of This Is It, you are missing out. Find the physical copy. Watch the Extras. It turns a sad documentary into a joyful masterclass.
Did you catch the "Earth Song" full rehearsal in the extras? Let me know in the comments.
Title: The King in Rehearsal: Unpacking the Hidden Gold of 'This Is It – Extras 1'
When This Is It hit theaters in October 2009, it was both a eulogy and a miracle—a chance to see Michael Jackson, just days before his sudden passing, running through the full-scale production that was meant to conquer London. But for the true devotees, the main film was only half the story. The real treasure lies buried in the home release's supplementary material, specifically the section labeled "Extras 1."
These aren't just deleted scenes. They are a raw, unvarnished masterclass.
The Tension of Perfection
The first thing that strikes you in Extras 1 is Michael's voice. Not the polished studio whisper or the explosive live belt, but the working voice. In a grainy rehearsal clip for "The Way You Make Me Feel," he stops the band mid-crescendo. "No... slower," he says, tapping his chest. "It has to breathe." The band adjusts. He closes his eyes, nods once, and then unleashes a pelvic roll so sharp it feels like a secret. This is Michael the Director—meticulous, soft-spoken, but absolute.
The Unseen Choreography
We get extended, multi-angle footage of "Smooth Criminal." In the film, we see the finished illusion: the lean, the fedora, the gangster sway. In Extras 1, we see Michael teaching two new dancers the intention behind a single finger snap. "It's not about the hit," he whispers. "It's about the anticipation." He demonstrates the same eight-count of movement five times, each iteration subtly different—more wrist, less shoulder, a tilt of the head that implies danger. The dancers are exhausted. He is glowing.
Human Moments
Sandwiched between these thunderous rehearsals are tiny, devastating human beats. There’s a 30-second clip of Michael warming up his voice backstage, scat-singing a melody that doesn't belong to any known song—pure improvisation, pure soul. Another moment shows him sharing a quiet laugh with musical director Michael Bearden after a flubbed keyboard cue. He covers his mouth when he laughs, like a shy child. For one breath, he isn't the King of Pop. He's just Mike. michael jacksons this is it 2009 extras 1
The Weight of "What If"
The final segment of Extras 1 is the hardest to watch: a full, uninterrupted run of "Earth Song" from a soundcheck at the Staples Center. No CGI forests, no bulldozer on stage. Just Michael in a maroon button-down and slacks, reaching for the rafters. The backing track drops out for 15 seconds, and he keeps singing—a cappella, raw, ferocious. When he finishes, the small crew of electricians and camera ops erupts into applause. Michael looks almost surprised, then bows deeply.
Why It Matters
This Is It – Extras 1 isn't about what was lost. It's about what was present until the very end: an artist who still believed that every single "hee-hee" and every single toe-stand mattered. These extras strip away the spectacle to show the scaffolding—the sweat, the counting, the joy, and the relentless, aching love of craft.
You don't watch Extras 1 to mourn. You watch it to remember that greatness doesn't just happen. It rehearses.
[End piece]
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
: 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
Inside the Phenomenon: A Deep Dive into Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) Extras
When Michael Jackson passed away in June 2009, the world didn't just lose a pop star; it lost a visionary in the middle of crafting his most ambitious comeback. The documentary This Is It, released later that year, offered a hauntingly beautiful "fly on the wall" look at the rehearsals. However, for the true fanatics, the "This Is It 2009 Extras" are where the real magic—and the technical genius of MJ—truly shines.
The supplemental material, particularly in the initial home media releases, serves as a masterclass in performance and production. The "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal" Vignettes
One of the most tragic losses of the cancelled residency was the "Dome Project"—high-definition short films intended to play behind Michael on stage. The extras provide a clean look at these mini-movies.
The Smooth Criminal Segment: We see Michael digitally inserted into classic 1940s film noir like Gilda. Seeing him dodge bullets in a high-def "Put the Blame on Mame" sequence shows how he intended to bridge his classic 80s aesthetic with modern technology. The 2009 home video release of Michael Jackson's
The Thriller Graveyard: The 3D update to the Thriller graveyard is chilling. The extras detail the casting of the "undead" dancers and the painstaking makeup work that rivaled the original 1983 short film. Staging the Return: The Auditions
Perhaps the most emotional "extra" is the footage of the dancer auditions. Over 5,000 dancers from around the world showed up for a handful of spots. Watching these world-class athletes break down in tears just to be in the same room as Jackson emphasizes his status as a "dancer’s dancer." You get to see the specific "MJ style" being taught—a mix of military precision and fluid street dance. The "Memories of Michael" Featurette
While the main film focuses on the work, the extras provide a moment for the crew—including director Kenny Ortega and music director Michael Bearden—to speak from the heart. They describe a Michael who was sharp, kind, and surprisingly firmly in control of every musical note and lighting cue. It dispels the rumors of his frailty, showing him instead as a focused "Chief" of his craft. Technical Brilliance: Sound and Light
For the gearheads, the featurettes on the "This Is It" stage design are fascinating. From the "Lightman" (a giant LED-encrusted figure) to the custom-built sound systems, the extras reveal that this wasn't just a concert; it was meant to be the most technologically advanced show in history. Why the Extras Matter
The This Is It extras aren't just "deleted scenes." They are the blueprints of a masterpiece that was never finished. They offer a glimpse into the creative process of a perfectionist who, even in his final weeks, was pushing the boundaries of what live entertainment could be.
Michael Jackson's 'This Is It' 2009 Extras: A Glimpse into the King of Pop's Final Performance
In 2009, the world was abuzz with excitement as Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, announced his highly anticipated comeback concert series, 'This Is It.' The shows, scheduled to take place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, promised to be a spectacular farewell tour, featuring a star-studded lineup and a medley of Jackson's greatest hits.
On June 25, 2009, tragedy struck when Michael Jackson passed away, leaving fans around the globe in shock and grief. The 'This Is It' concerts, which were set to begin just days later, were subsequently canceled.
However, in a bittersweet tribute to the legendary performer, the producers of the concert series decided to compile a documentary film, also titled 'This Is It,' which would feature rehearsal footage and behind-the-scenes glimpses of Jackson's final days. The film, released on October 28, 2009, provided an intimate look at Jackson's creative process and offered a poignant insight into his life.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the documentary is the inclusion of 'extras' or bonus features, which provide additional context and insight into Jackson's artistry. 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' refers to a collection of bonus features that offer a deeper dive into the making of the concert film.
The Extras: A Deeper Dive into Jackson's Artistry
The 'extras' section of 'This Is It' includes a range of fascinating features, such as interviews with Jackson's choreographer, Vincent Paterson, and the show's musical director, Michael McDonald. These interviews offer a glimpse into Jackson's creative process and provide insight into his approach to music and performance.
One of the most poignant features in 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' is a behind-the-scenes look at Jackson's rehearsals. The footage shows Jackson tirelessly rehearsing his choreography, perfecting his dance moves, and working with his team to bring his vision to life.
The extras also include a feature on Jackson's iconic costume designs, which were created specifically for the 'This Is It' concerts. The intricate costumes, designed by Giovanni Santini, were a testament to Jackson's attention to detail and his commitment to creating a visually stunning show.
A Glimpse into Jackson's Final Performance
For fans of Michael Jackson, 'This Is It' offers a bittersweet glimpse into what could have been. The documentary film and its accompanying extras provide a unique insight into Jackson's final days and offer a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy as a performer.
The 'This Is It' concerts, which were set to be Jackson's final performances, promised to be a spectacular farewell tour. The shows were designed to be a celebration of Jackson's life and career, featuring a range of his greatest hits, including 'Billie Jean,' 'Beat It,' and 'Thriller.'
Although the concerts were ultimately canceled, 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' provides a fascinating glimpse into what could have been. The extras offer a behind-the-scenes look at Jackson's creative process and provide insight into his approach to music and performance.
The Legacy of 'This Is It'
In the years since its release, 'This Is It' has become a beloved tribute to Michael Jackson's enduring legacy. The documentary film and its accompanying extras have provided fans with a unique insight into Jackson's life and artistry, and have served as a poignant reminder of his impact on popular culture.
The 'This Is It' concerts may have been canceled, but the documentary film and its extras have ensured that Jackson's final performance will live on in the hearts of fans around the world. 'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' is a must-see for fans of the King of Pop, offering a fascinating glimpse into his creative process and providing a poignant insight into his life.
The Impact of 'This Is It' on Pop Culture
The release of 'This Is It' in 2009 sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with fans and critics alike eagerly anticipating the documentary film. The movie's success was a testament to Jackson's enduring popularity and his impact on popular culture.
The 'This Is It' documentary and its extras have been widely praised for their intimate and revealing portrayal of Jackson's life and artistry. The film has been credited with inspiring a new generation of fans and providing a fresh perspective on Jackson's legacy. Why These Extras Matter In 2009, we watched
In the years since its release, 'This Is It' has become a cultural touchstone, with references to the documentary film appearing in music, film, and television. The movie's influence can be seen in the work of artists such as Beyoncé, Kanye West, and Bruno Mars, who have all cited Jackson as an inspiration.
Conclusion
'Michael Jackson's This Is It 2009 Extras 1' is a fascinating glimpse into the life and artistry of the King of Pop. The extras provide a unique insight into Jackson's creative process and offer a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy as a performer.
The 'This Is It' documentary film and its accompanying extras have become a beloved tribute to Jackson's life and artistry, and have served as a poignant reminder of his impact on popular culture. For fans of Michael Jackson, 'This Is It' is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the life and artistry of one of the most iconic performers of all time.
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.
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,
In the film, this is a beautiful but brief interlude. In Extras 1, we see the uncut version. Jackson dances with a precision that defies his age and physical condition at the time. You hear the subtle ad-libs—the "Why, why?" vocals—that didn't make the final film. For audiophiles, this is the raw "P.Y.T." (Pretty Young Thing) energy in a slow-jam format.
One of the strangest yet most beloved segments in Extras 1 is the costume featurette. Running 14 minutes, it follows designer Zaldy and Jackson's longtime collaborator Michael Bush.
Highlights include:
This featurette turns the documentary into a How It's Made for pop music royalty.
This Is It (2009) is a documentary–concert film compiled from rehearsal footage and behind-the-scenes material shot during Michael Jackson’s preparations for his planned 2009–2010 comeback concert residency, also titled This Is It. The film presents Jackson as a meticulous performer and creative director, revealing both the scope of the production and the artist’s exacting standards. “Extras 1” typically refers to supplemental material produced for home-video releases (DVD/Blu-ray) that expands on rehearsal footage, interviews, and production features; this write-up focuses on the content, themes, production context, and significance of those additional features.