Michael Jackson & The Doctor: A Fatal Friendship

Michael Jackson & The Doctor: A Fatal Friendship is a revelatory documentary that came out in 2011, produced by Zodiak Rights. This intriguing film offers intimate and exclusive peek into the tumultuous life and times of the world famous pop star, Michael Jackson, through the narration of his personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray. This is a different narrative of Jackson’s life than what has been seen before and offers a perspective on the personal dynamics between the reclusive star and his doctor.

The documentary, rather than focusing on the entirety of Jackson's illustrious career, zooms in onto the two years leading up to his untimely death in 2009. Gibson's film tries to unravel the complex relationship between superstar Michael Jackson and Dr. Conrad Murray, the man who was infamously implicated (and later convicted) in the star's tragic death. The documentarian's lens peers into how this seemingly improbable relationship was formed, how it evolved, and what it led to eventually.

Dr. Conrad Murray, serving as the narrator and guide, takes the audience on a unique tour de force of his relationship with Jackson. While it is immediately apparent that it doesn't serve as a tribute to the 'King of Pop,' the documentary presents a different tune, giving voice to the man who was at the center of the controversy linked to Jackson's demise.

Intriguingly, the documentary humanizes both figures, spinning a tale of friendship and trust. Underneath the glitz and glamour, Michael Jackson is shown as a man in need of emotional and physical support, finding both in the unlikely form of Dr. Murray. Murray, for his part, a successful medical practitioner plunged into the labyrinthine world of show business and its attending intricacies, finds a friend in the enigmatic performer. The narrative also delves into Murray's own background and career.

Besides the personal aspects, viewers are introduced to the dynamics within Jackson's entourage and the constant pressure he was under in the days leading up to his highly anticipated "This is It" tour. The film focuses not so much on the sensational aspect of it but on the human drama that enfolded. Amid the backdrop of money, fame, and stress, a complex relationship is observed, bearing resemblance to a Greek Tragedy.

The development process of this documentary also has a unique backstory. The film crew had ample access and exclusive footage of Dr. Murray, interviewing him extensively during the two years of the sensational trial that followed Jackson's death. Very telling were the historical and fan-perspective interpretations of the controversies surrounding Jackson's last years. The production benefited from the doctor's detailed recounting, the unfettered access to his private and professional life, and the extensive interviews that unfolded a narrative from his perspective.

Moreover, the film uses court materials, extensive research, and supporting characters to substantiate this narrative and provide a more wholesome picture. Viewers can expect to see footage and inside stories that have never been made public before. The documentary comes together in a series of interviews, courthouse chronicles, dramatized scenes, personal anecdotes, and informative segments, providing insight and raising questions on the high-profile relationship and the ambitious world of music.

Although no structure can do justice to capturing the enigma that was Michael Jackson, Michael Jackson & The Doctor: A Fatal Friendship allows audiences a sideshow perspective to the circus that surrounded the pop icon's life. However, viewers must keep in mind that this isn't a clear-cut story – it's a mesh of individual interpretations, complicated emotions, and the trials and tribulations that mold one's experience under the limelight.

With a running time of approximately 90 minutes, this gripping documentary invites viewers into a world of fame, friendship, and tragedy. It may leave you with more questions than answers, however, it certainly offers an informative and unconventional snapshot of the final years of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.