The Moon is Walking:
An Oral History of Michael Jackson's Moonwalker

Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker is a 1988 anthology film directed by Jerry Kramer and Colin Chilvers, with segments developed in collaboration with Michael Jackson himself. The film features a blend of music video, fantasy, and live-action storytelling, with Michael portraying various versions of himself—including a futuristic hero, a smooth gangster, and a magical shapeshifter.

The film is structured as a series of loosely connected segments, most famously the extended narrative surrounding Smooth Criminal, in which Michael battles a drug-dealing villain named Mr. Big (played by Joe Pesci) who threatens to harm the world’s children. Using a mix of music, dance, and supernatural powers, Michael transforms into a car, a spaceship, and ultimately a savior-like figure in a surreal showdown.

Notable for its groundbreaking visual effects, choreography, and innovative blending of music video and narrative film, Moonwalker became a cult favorite among Jackson fans. It also includes reimagined versions of his biggest hits, such as Man in the Mirror, Leave Me Alone, and Speed Demon—the latter featuring a Claymation chase sequence.

Nick is currently in the process of speaking with those who were involved in the creation of Moonwalker, with a view to crafting an in-depth oral history into the making of Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker.

Members of the cast and crew who have been interviewed so far include: