Michael Jackson has without doubt made some of the best pop music ever, most notably with Quincy Jones at the helm. I`ve been a fan of Michael Jackson ever since his first album, ‘Off The Wall’ through to his very last album ‘Invincible’ (2001).

On his 14^th death anniversary on 25^th June, we remember the time, the King, the beautiful King of Pop and the best dancer on the planet.

This DVD, HIStory, is a collection of ten of his music videos spanning his first album through to ‘Dangerous’.

What makes this DVD release special is that the full-length versions of some of the clips replaced the short versions of earlier releases. So what you get is full music videos unlike edited versions that we have seen on TV. And what’s more, watching these music videos makes you feel like you're back in the 80's. Jackson truly revolutionized the music video industry for he didn't just make "Music Videos", but mini-movies or "short films" as he once called them, with actors and an actual storyline. 

Thriller was the most ambitious promo ever made for its time, but sadly there is no `Making Of’` feature for the video although we might have seen it years ago. It is still one of Jackson’s finest moments here. Billie Jean is a long version with dance moves that made him so famous. His moonwalk is awesome. What I really like about this DVD is the 18 minute long version of Bad which is excellent because you understand the point of the song much more. There’s also the never seen before version of Black or White where he transforms into a panther, (the effects are amazing) you don't just get to hear the fantastic music he produces, you get to watch the brilliant videos as well. So cue on and set your favorites.

While the quality of some of the videos seems to vary from video to video,  The `Way You Make Me Feel is a bit grainy, while Bad is clearer and Do You Remember The Time the sharpest. Bad and The Way You Make Me Feel have extra scenes that make more sense to what`s happening on screen. So it`s a mixed bag, just average. We can’t really complain considering the music videos have been made years ago with whatever technology was available at that time.

There`s no mistaking the great choreography (not sure that clutching ones groin counts though) and style Jackson had when it came to making pop promos. You can see all this in full in Billie Jean, Beat It and Bad. For me however, Thriller is one of Jackson`s finest moments.

Michael Jackson was an iconic pop star who debuted as part of The Jackson 5 in 1968, but began his solo career in 1971. He is the genius behind songs such as Beat It, Billie Jean and Thriller which broke boundaries for its production of turning a music video into an art form while breaking social norms and barriers (racial abuse). He is one of the few people who has been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame twice. Additionally, he has won thirteen Grammy awards, twenty six American Music Awards, the Artist of the Century award and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He is also fondly known as the termed the King Of Pop. While trying to prepare for his comeback concerts, This Is It, Michael Jackson passed away on 25^th June 2009.

This 90 minute DVD will convert any non MJ fan and delight those who already appreciate his amazing talents. We all feel sad that he has gone, but his music still lives on. In summary, the Michael Jackson DVD appears to offer a satisfying experience for fans seeking a collection of music videos and performances, providing nostalgic value for those who appreciate the artist's influence on the music video industry.

Apart from chapter selection and a discography, there`s nothing else to look for in this DVD, so no Bonus Features, which is sad, and really disappointing that its jut the 10 videos.

Media Format: ‎ PAL

Release date: ‎ 12^th Dec. 2001

Language: ‎ English (Dolby Digital 5.1), English (Stereo), English (PCM Stereo), Unqualified (Dolby Digital 5.1)

Rating: *****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira