The Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) home media release includes a deep dive into the King of Pop’s final creative process. While the documentary itself provides a rare look at the rehearsal of his setlist, the Limited Edition DVD and Blu-ray features extend the experience with never-before-seen footage. Core Bonus Documentaries
The release is anchored by two significant making-of documentaries:
Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins: A multi-part mini-documentary that chronicles the initial production of the This Is It residency. It covers the logistics of building a massive show at the O2 Arena and the advanced technology involved in the set construction.
Beyond the Show: This featurette provides a technical perspective on the concert's complex visual cues and special effects. It includes footage of the stage "toaster" mechanism and the custom-designed video doors intended for Jackson's grand entrances and exits. Exclusive Performance Vignettes
The Blu-ray edition features high-definition shorts that were produced specifically to play on the giant LCD screens during the live concert: Tonight's 3D feature is This Is It
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
The extras and bonus features for the 2009 release of Michael Jackson's This Is It
vary depending on whether you are looking at the 2-Disc Collector's Edition DVD/Blu-ray or the Deluxe Edition Audio Album. DVD & Blu-ray Bonus Features (Disc 1)
On the 2-Disc Collector's Edition DVD, Disc 1 includes the full 111-minute documentary film along with several specific featurettes:
Staging the Return: A two-part making-of documentary exploring Jackson's vision for the O2 Arena residency.
The Gloved One: A focused look at the elaborate costume designs created for the show.
Memories of Michael: Moving tributes from the cast and crew regarding Jackson's artistic legacy.
Auditions: Searching for the World’s Best Dancers: A look at the intense global search and selection process for the backup dancers.
Theatrical Trailer: The original promotional trailer for the film's cinema release.
(Note: Features like "Meet the Dancers," "Meet the Band," and "Unfinished Rehearsals" are typically found on Disc 2 of the DVD/Blu-ray sets.) Deluxe Edition Audio Album (Disc 1)
If you are referring to the Deluxe Edition soundtrack, Disc 1 contains the "Music That Inspired the Movie," featuring remastered studio versions of the hits rehearsed in the film, plus a previously unreleased title track: Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' They Don't Care About Us Human Nature Smooth Criminal The Way You Make Me Feel Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground) I Just Can't Stop Loving You Black or White Earth Song Billie Jean Man in the Mirror This Is It (New track) This Is It (Orchestra Version)
The Disc 2 of the audio set contains additional "extras" such as unreleased demos for "She's Out of My Life," "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," and "Beat It," as well as the spoken word poem "Planet Earth". AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
What is the difference between THIS IS IT DVD and Blu Ray??? michael jacksons this is it 2009 extras 1
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 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.
The special features for Michael Jackson's This Is It (2009) provide a deeper look into the production and the creative process behind his planned final concert series. The extras available on the home media releases (Blu-ray and DVD) include: Behind-the-Scenes & Documentaries Staging the Return
: A two-part documentary ("The Adventure Begins" and "Beyond the Show") that serves as the centerpiece of the extras. It details the entire journey from the initial conception of the 50-date residency to Jackson's meticulous commitment to perfection during rehearsals. The Gloved One
: A featurette focused on the tour's costume design. Lead designer Zaldy walkthroughs the unique, high-fashion outfits planned for the stage.
Auditions: Searching for the World's Best Dancers: A look at the intense global search for the dancers who would share the stage with Jackson, documenting their journey from the first audition to being selected for the tour. Musical Content & Vignettes
Smooth Criminal & Thriller Vignettes: Re-imagined short films and 3D clips intended to play on massive screens during the live performances.
Smooth Criminal: A "making-of" for the new pastiche film where Jackson is digitally inserted into classic gangster movies.
Thriller: Features new 3D footage of a "graveyard uprising".
Additional Rehearsals: Snippets of rehearsals for songs that didn't make the final film cut, including "Dirty Diana," "Stranger in Moscow," and "Dangerous". Tributes & Cast Insights Memories of Michael
: A tribute featurette where director Kenny Ortega and the production crew share personal stories and their experiences working with Jackson.
Meet the Team: Segments dedicated to the backing band, vocalists, and dancers, giving them a platform to discuss their roles in the "This Is It" production.
The "useful piece" you are likely referring to is the featurette " Staging the Return
", which serves as the primary behind-the-scenes documentary in the 2009 Special Features for Michael Jackson's This Is It
This segment is often divided into two parts and covers the technical and creative development of the planned 50-date residency. Key Content in " Staging the Return
The Adventure Begins: Focuses on the initial concept of the London O2 Arena residency and how the concert series came to be.
Beyond the Show: Detailed footage of Jackson directing the musical team, band, and crew to ensure every cue and "funk" level met his specific standards.
The "Toaster" Mechanism: Behind-the-scenes footage showing the testing of the specialized stage lift designed to launch Jackson onto the stage.
Rehearsal Directives: Rare clips of Michael instructing his musicians, such as his famous request for a bassline to have more "thud" instead of "fud". Other Major Extras Released in 2009–2010
If you are looking for specific production insights, these other pieces from the same collection are frequently cited as the most "useful" for fans:
The Gloved One: A 15-minute look at the tour's unique costume designs by Zaldy, including the LED-lit "Billie Jean" pants and an updated "Thriller" jacket. The Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009) home
Auditions: Chronicles the global search for the world's best dancers and the grueling selection process. Making Smooth Criminal
: A technical breakdown of the "vignette" that would have placed Michael into a black-and-white noir film alongside Hollywood legends like Rita Hayworth.
the standard DVD) include the extended versions of these extras?
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.
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.
"Michael Jackson's This Is It" was a 2009 concert film that was meant to be a comeback performance for Michael Jackson. The film was recorded in 2009 and was intended to be a live concert at the O2 Arena in London.
The performance was recorded on rehearsals and concerts that took place on June 13, 2009. Unfortunately, Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009.
The film was released on October 28. It included footage from rehearsals. Primary Featurettes 1
Are you a fan of Michael Jackson or interested in the film? I'd be happy to share more!
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.
1. "Staging the Return: The Adventure Begins"
2. "Staging the Return: Beyond the Show"
3. "The Gloved One"
4. "Memories of Michael"
5. "Auditions: Searching for the World's Best Dancers"
6. "Costumes: Closer to the Mirror"
7. "The Picture in 3D"
Extras packages for This Is It varied by edition and region, but “Extras 1” style content commonly includes:
Perhaps the most sought-after clip in Extras 1 is the Dance Rehearsal for "Smooth Criminal." Here, the audio track is removed. There is no singing. There is no band. There is only the squeak of loafers on a polished stage and the metronome.
We see Michael Jackson counting. We see him teaching Kenny Ortega the angle of the lean. He wears his soft grey trousers and a V-neck sweater, looking more like a university professor than a pop star. He drills the backup dancers on the "anti-gravity lean" by showing them how to tense their calves. This segment strips away the iconography and leaves you with the athlete—the man who knew exactly how many millimeters his heel needed to slide to catch the beat.
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.
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:
When the documentary Michael Jackson’s This Is It premiered in October 2009, it was marketed as a final rehearsal film—a raw, unfiltered look at what would have been the greatest concert series never staged. But for the true devotees, the theatrical release was only the beginning. The treasure trove that fans have come to refer to as “Extras 1” (the first disc of bonus features from the Collector’s Edition DVD and Blu-ray) is where the real soul of the project lives.
Far from just discarded footage, Extras 1 is a masterclass in vulnerability, perfectionism, and the architectural genius of Michael Jackson. Here is a deep dive into why this specific collection of bonus material remains essential viewing 15 years later.