Est. 1998
‘Moonwalker’ Re-Discovered
A rare copy of Michael’s ‘Moonwalker’ film featuring the iconic dance sequence of ‘Smooth Criminal’ was located this week in Studio City, California.
Amy Redman, a raw stock broker who worked with ‘Moonwalker’s’ live action director, Colin Chilvers for a number of years, came forward Tuesday with three reels of film that contain over thirty minutes of footage.
“I have the only release print ever made for use in the USA. It consists of the live action portion of Michael Jackson’s ‘Moonwalker.’ Michael had a dream and ‘Moonwalker’ is the result of his visions,” said Redman.
Half of the film is live action (dance, acting, singing performances with Michael) directed by Chilvers and the other half is claymation.
Although ‘Moonwalker’ had been theatrically released in Europe in 1988 the film never made it to theaters in America. The film went on to huge success in the home video market.
Chilvers had this print made to screen for his TV commercial clients, reel of his current work so to speak, after having spent years on ‘Moonwalker’s’ production with Michael. Redman had the print inspected by a local film historian/projectionist who verified the print is in good condition.
The reels had been in Redman’s possession for years. It was not until Michael’s death that Redman decided to come forward with the reels.
As early as January, TMZ had reported that the Archlight Theater in Los Angeles had been actively searching for a copy of this film. Michael’s estate was quoted in TMZ as saying; “The estate has the rights but has no plans of renting the prints at this time.”
Redman is hopeful a deal can be worked out for the purchase of the print. “At this time I feel it’s the best opportunity to get this footage to parties that are willing to appreciate the vast talents of Michael Jackson, which I witnessed personally.”
Source: salemnews.com, TMZ & MJWN
Song of the week
