This Is It,but on Day 1,Delhi barely notices

The film,one hour and 51 minutes long,released in 16 cities worldwide on Wednesday. “It’s a concert-film that shows people what they would have otherwise seen at the concert,” said Nitin Bikhchandani,regional manager,North India,Sony Pictures — the film’s producers.

Bikhchandani said the film will run for only two weeks. “That is how MJ’s concerts were. If you miss it,you miss it.” The film has been directed by Kenny Ortega,Jackson’s creative partner and director of the stage show.

The movie starts with some of the principal dancers sharing their excitement and even shock at being selected and then goes on to reveal eclectic glimpses of the star — working on getting his vocals right; judging his dancers; his patience with musicians; his humbleness and his love for the planet. MJ is in many moods. And the hits are there too — in his signature falsetto,replete with white glove,electric blue jacket,silver and gold pants,hat and sunglasses.

In Delhi,the enthusiasm was low on Wednesday,Amitabh Vardhan,CEO,PVR Cinemas,said,“The turnout today was weak but we are already sold out for the weekend.” Anant Verma,director operations,DT Cinemas,running almost six shows across Saket and Vasant Kunj,said,“So far the response has not been extraordinary. But since the movie was scheduled for a worldwide release on a Wednesday and as business during weekdays is usually low,we are sure the movie will pick up by Friday evening.”