'Michael' Won't Be Submitted as Comedy or Musical for the Golden Globes

According to exclusive information from Gold Derby, the Golden Globe organization rejected the film Michael's submission in the comedy or musical category. The decision resolves one of the questions surrounding the awards season: whether the film would be treated as a musical with dramatic elements or a drama with musical elements.

Although the Golden Globes generally accept the studio's choice, the committee determined that the production does not meet the criteria of the rules, which define a musical as a comedy or drama "in which songs are used in addition to spoken dialogue to advance the plot." Sources indicate that the members felt that the musical performances in Michael do not meet this requirement of propelling the narrative forward.

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Lionsgate, the studio responsible for the film, is evaluating whether to appeal the decision before the submission deadline of October 31st. If an appeal is filed, it will be reviewed by the awards committee. Meanwhile, Obsession and Tender Loving Care have already been submitted and accepted as comedies .

If Lionsgate doesn't appeal or doesn't win the dispute, the film and its actors – especially the protagonist Jaafar Jackson , who has the best chance of a nomination – will have to compete in the drama categories, which are more competitive. Supporting actors, like Colman Domingo , are not separated by gender at the Golden Globes.

The Golden Globe rules were changed after Ray and Johnny & June won in the musical category, requiring that the music drive the narrative. Since then, musical biopics such as Elvis and Bohemian Rhapsody have all been entered as dramas.

Everything you need to know about Michael

Directed by Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) and written by John Logan (Gladiator), Michael follows the King of Pop from the Jackson 5 years to the beginning of his solo career — the idea is for the story to continue in a second feature if Michael proves to be a box office success, which is exactly what has been happening.

Jaafar Jackson, Michael Jackson's nephew, plays him in the film. The cast also includes Colman Domingo and Nia Long as the pop star's parents, Miles Teller as the protagonist's agent, and Laura Harrier, Kat Graham and Derek Luke.

Where to watch Michael

For now, Michael is available to rent at Prime Video or Apple TV.