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'Leaving Neverland': Documentary about Michael Jackson's alleged sexual abuse of 2 children catches critics' attention

WION Web Team
New Delhi, Delhi, IndiaUpdated: Jan 28, 2019, 01:27 PM IST
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Photograph:(Reuters)

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The documentary got a standing ovation from critics at the Sundance Film Festival. 

A dark documentary on late iconic singer Michael Jackson is currently in news for its content as it delves into the claims of two men sexually abused as kids by the singer in their growing up years. The docu-feature is a four-hour long piece that was showcased at the Sundance Film Festival where it caught the attention of Hollywood biggies and critics. 

Made by Wade Robson and James Safechuck, it is about their story as they were allegedly abused by the pop star. It’s called the ‘Leaving Neverland’. 

‘Leaving Neverland’ reportedly goes into graphic and disturbing details accusing the singer of sexually abusing the two inside the bedroom. As per reports, Robson and Safechuck share their story through research and evidence that make it bring forward their compelling points.

The documentary got a standing ovation by the critics at the Sundance Film Festival. 

Meanwhile, the Jackson estate has issued a statement slamming the movie. “Leaving Neverland isn’t a documentary, it is the kind of tabloid character assassination Michael Jackson endured in life, and now in death. The film takes uncorroborated allegations that supposedly happened 20 years ago and treats them as fact,” the estate said in a statement.

The estate also called Robson and Safechuck “admitted liars” who “provided no independent evidence and absolutely no proof in support of their accusations, which means the entire film hinges solely on the word of two perjurers.”

They claim that the motive behind participating in a documentary “has always been about money – millions of dollars – dating back to 2013 when both Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who share the same law firm, launched their unsuccessful claims against Michael’s Estate.”

“We are extremely sympathetic to any legitimate victim of child abuse. This film, however, does those victims a disservice. Now that Michael is no longer here to defend himself, Robson, Safechuck and their lawyers continue their efforts to achieve notoriety and a payday by smearing him with the same allegations a jury found him innocent of when he was alive,” the statement read