Michael Jackson fans in Japan will soon have another reason to head back to the cinema!
As part of the celebrations surrounding Michael Jackson’s birthday on August 29, the legendary “Beat It” short film will be screened in cinemas across Japan for the very first time.
The special presentation will run from August 28 to September 17 at 390 theatres nationwide, giving audiences the chance to experience one of Michael’s most iconic short films on the big screen.
The 4K remastered version will be shown after the main feature of the film Michael, with no additional charge for cinema-goers. However, the “Beat It” short film will not be screened during IMAX presentations. Fans can check participating theatres through the official movie website’s theatre listings.
Released in 1983, “Beat It” remains one of Michael Jackson’s most celebrated and influential short films. Set against a backdrop reminiscent of West Side Story, the video follows two rival gangs preparing for a confrontation before Michael steps in, attempting to bring the violence to an end through the power of music and dance.
What makes the short film particularly remarkable is its use of real street gang members alongside professional performers, giving the production a raw and authentic edge. Combining storytelling, cinematic direction, choreography and Michael’s powerful anti-violence message, “Beat It” helped redefine what a music video could be.
And, of course, there is that unforgettable guitar solo from the legendary Eddie Van Halen.
The song and short film continue to attract enormous audiences today. As of August 19, the official “Beat It” video had surpassed 1.4 billion views on YouTube, while also appearing at number 26 on YouTube’s Weekly Global Music Video Ranking for August 7–13.
A representative from Sony Music Labels described the first-ever theatrical presentation as a special moment, noting that even those who have watched the short film countless times may discover something new when experiencing it on a huge cinema screen with powerful sound.
The special screenings come as Michael continues to perform strongly in Japan. On August 16, the film surpassed 5 million admissions, and by August 21, its Japanese box office had exceeded 8 billion yen.
But the celebrations do not stop there. On Michael’s birthday, August 29, fans will also be invited to take part in a special review campaign titled “One-Day Special Day — Let’s Send Our Feelings to Michael on 8/29.”
Fans who post their thoughts about the film or share a message for Michael will have the chance to win prizes, with three winners selected by lottery to receive a poster, a T-shirt and a set of Michael Jackson’s greatest-hits albums.
What better way to celebrate Michael’s birthday than seeing “Beat It” where it truly deserves to be seen, on the big screen!
And for those who are not in Japan during that time! Let’s watch it together:
