The makers of "Michael Jackson's This Is It" managed to do what seemed impossible, and we're not talking about presenting Jackson as headliner of what's destined to be a blockbuster movie.

They've taken Jackson, the late megastar with the most freakish of personas, and humanized him in a way we haven't seen in — who can remember?

As seen in the fan-friendly musical valentine "Michael Jackson's This Is It," Jackson at this stage in his career was just a hard-working individual looking to get the job done, much like you or I.

In his case, that job was preparing for a series of 50 sold-out London concerts that were set to take place over the summer. It was going to be quite the show, an over-the-top thriller. But, of course, that was not to be.

Jackson died last summer of cardiac arrest before the shows could take place. But there's still money to be made off Jackson, lots of it actually; "Michael Jackson's This Is It" is going to be a cash cow.

The movie, with Jackson at the center from beginning to end, surrounded by dancers, directors, choreographers and crew, is culled entirely from 120 hours of rehearsal footage and new film segments designed for his comeback shows.

If Jackson hadn't died so unexpectedly, the material in the movie might've made for a fluffy MTV special we might not have cared much about. But the footage takes on a whole new perspective in light of Jackson's death.

We've heard so much — that he was sick, frail and in no condition to perform. We want answers, clarity. "Michael Jackson's This is It" provides that, while still leaving us wondering.

Jackson looks great. He's strong, fluid, funny, assured and a perfectionist.

On the flip side, and this seems important, the makers clearly show us only what they want us to see. This isn't a warts-and-all documentary. There isn't an unflattering shot to be found, and if you didn't know Jackson was dead, you might not find out from this movie.

But "Michael Jackson's This is It" never feels sad. It's a fitting celebration of a controversial man's last days, packaged prettily with a bow on top.