Michael Jackson Film 'This Is It' Premiere

A film about the late pop star Michael Jackson premiered last night (October 27th) at locations across the globe.

Just one year ago, Michael Jackson was about to embark on one of the most ambitious live productions of his career. Announcing a residency at the O2 Arena the star stunned fans with news of his first live performance in a decade.

Supporters hailed the return of the King of Pop, however huge demand led to the number of concerts spiralling upwards. To the astonishment of onlookers - and Michael Jackson himself - the final total reached 50 and would stretch on for a year.

Sadly, Michael Jackson was unable to complete a single concert. Rehearsing furiously, the singer collapsed at home in Los Angeles and despite the efforts of ambulance teams to aid him Jackson died.

With his death sparking an almost unprecedented wave of mourning, Michael Jackson's dress rehearsal footage became the subject of much discussion.

Promoters AEG Live controversially announced that they were to release a new documentary about the singer named 'This Is It'. Essentially a film of his dress rehearsals, the film has already spawned a single of the same name.

Premiering last night, 'This Is It' was shown simultaneously in a variety of locations around the world. In Los Angeles, Jermaine, Marlon, Tito and Randy Jackson, the singer's brothers, attended the premiere.

BBC News reports that a coterie of stars were also in attendance, with Will Smith, Katy Perry and Berry Gordy all attending the concert.

However the film has been met with fury from some Michael Jackson fans. AEG Live was widely criticised for their role in extending the residency, with some speculating that this pressure was a contributing factor in the singer's death.

A protest group 'This Is Not It' have been working online to argue their case.