Deadline is exclusively reporting that Antoine Fuqua looks set to direct the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, at Lionsgate.

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Michael is set to be an in-depth portrayal of a complicated man who become the King of Pop. It will bring to life Jackson’s most iconic performances as it gives an informed insight into the entertainer’s artistic process and personal life.

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Lionsgate acquired worldwide rights to make a Michael Jackson biopic early last year, with producer Graham King and writer John Logan attached to the project.

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Joe Drake, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, released a statement saying:

Antoine is a perceptive and powerful filmmaker, and we feel very fortunate that he has chosen Michael as his next project. His visionary storytelling skills and commitment to his craft will make Michael an unforgettable film.

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Graham King added:

Antoine’s films provide personal perspectives of larger-than-life characters that continuously captivate global audiences. I’m confident that Antoine will make an exceptional and compelling film that will both celebrate and give profound new insights into the life of the King of Pop.

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Antoine Fuqua added:

The first films of my career were music videos, and I still feel that combining film and music are a deep part of who I am. For me, there is no artist with the power, the charisma, and the sheer musical genius of Michael Jackson. I was influenced to make music videos by watching his work – the first Black artist to play in heavy rotation on MTV. His music and those images are part of my worldview, and the chance to tell his story on the screen alongside his music was irresistible.

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The report states that production on Michael will begin later in the year, and is reportedly trying to attach cinematographer and frequent collaborator Robert Richardson to the project.