Film · 1983
The Making of Michael Jackson's Thriller
Himself; performer and subject
Synopsis
A behind-the-scenes documentary built around the landmark short film for Thriller. Running roughly an hour, it weaves the full fourteen-minute Thriller video together with footage of how it was made: Jackson working with director John Landis, makeup artist Rick Baker turning dancers into decaying ghouls, and the cast rehearsing the now-famous graveyard dance. The program mixes interviews, rehearsal clips, and glimpses of Jackson's earlier videos, framing the short film as a new kind of pop event. Part promotion, part documentary, it treated a music video with the seriousness usually reserved for a movie, and it helped turn the making of a video into entertainment in its own right.
Michael's Role
Himself; performer and subject
Production
The documentary was assembled to accompany the Thriller short film, combining new making-of footage with the finished video. It became a hugely successful home-video release at a moment when the format was still young.
The Music
Built around Rod Temperton's Thriller, with Vincent Price's spoken-word rap and Quincy Jones's production at its center. Earlier Jackson songs and videos appear in supporting clips.
Reception
The video sold strongly and is often cited as one of the best-selling music home videos of its era. It helped popularize the behind-the-scenes documentary as a companion to major music projects.
Behind the Scenes
The project reportedly helped finance the Thriller short film itself, since the video's budget was recouped in part through this home-video release. Rick Baker's Oscar-winning creature work is showcased in detail.
Interesting Facts
It packaged the fourteen-minute Thriller short film with documentary footage of its creation.
The Thriller short film was directed by John Landis; makeup was created by Rick Baker.
Vincent Price performed the spoken-word rap heard in the song and film.
It became one of the best-selling music home videos of its time.[reported]
The home-video release reportedly helped cover the short film's production costs.[reported]
The Making of Michael Jackson's Thriller — Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Making of Thriller about?
The Making of Thriller is a documentary that goes behind the scenes of Michael Jackson's Thriller music video and its production. It offers a look at the creative process behind one of the most famous short films in music history.
How is The Making of Thriller connected to Michael Jackson's album?
It documents the video tied to Thriller, Michael Jackson's 1982 album produced by Quincy Jones. Thriller is the best-selling album of all time.
When was The Making of Thriller released?
The Making of Thriller was released in the early 1980s, following the 1982 Thriller album. Release dates can vary by home-video edition.
What role did Michael Jackson play in The Making of Thriller?
Michael Jackson appears as himself, both performing and reflecting on the creation of the Thriller video. The documentary centers on his work as the artist behind the project.
Is The Making of Thriller on streaming?
Availability of The Making of Thriller depends on your region and platform. Check current music-video and streaming services or digital stores for the latest options.