MJ Wrapped Secret Film Project 2 Weeks Before He Died

everlastinglove_MJ · March 2011

Michael Jackson Wrapped Secret Film Project Two Weeks Before He Died Jul 1, 2009 08:10 AM Two weeks before his death, Michael Jackson wrapped up work on a secret film titled the "Dome Project," which could be the final finished video piece overseen by the pop icon, reports The Associated Press. Jackson was apparently preparing to use the video as a part of a high-tech show that would play during his London concert series, where 3D images would flash behind him as he performed on stage. Sources tell the AP that it was a five-week project filmed at Culver Studios, and four sets were built for Jackson's production, including a cemetery recalling his 1983 "Thriller" video. In addition to the cemetery, one set was draped in black with an oversized portrait of Jackson in his "Thriller" werewolf costume, while another set was designed to look like a jungle, and a fourth set was built to look like a construction site. A source tells the AP that one scene filmed on the construction site set included "scantily clad male dancers wearing carpenter's belts." Oh boy. The project was shot from June 1-9, with Jackson on the set most of those days. According to one source close to production, Jackson would arrive in a caravan of SUVs with a bunch of beefy security guards in tow. Jackson "introduced himself to workers on the set and walked with a spring in his step but at one point needed assistance as he descended steps off a stage." Vince Pace, whose company provided cameras for the shoot, told the AP, "It was a groundbreaking effort. To think that Michael's gone now, that's probably the last documented footage of him to be shot in that manner." Should be interesting to see!  May be this has already been discussed before, but I keep thinking about the rehearsals at Staples and the"Dome Project" which MJ must have been done around the same time. He must have been VERY busy. The Dome Project was/is secretive. I think that Michael did produce not only Thriller there. There’s more to it. Could it be that many hoax settings were (and still are) prepared, produced, staged, wrapped there, including the pictures (i.e. ambulance). Of course a lot has to be acted/performed live on location, yet a lot has been prepared in the DP. The DP is a sorta hoax meeting point, where everyone who's hoax involved come together. Just a theory of course.. 8-)

voiceforthesilent · March 2011

May be this has already been discussed before, but I keep thinking about the rehearsals at Staples and the"Dome Project" which MJ must have been done around the same time. He must have been VERY busy. The Dome Project was/is secretive. I think that Michael did produce not only Thriller there. There’s more to it. Could it be that many hoax settings were (and still are) prepared, produced, staged, wrapped there, including the pictures (i.e. ambulance). Of course a lot has to be acted/performed live on location, yet a lot has been prepared in the DP. The DP is a sorta hoax meeting point, where everyone who's hoax involved come together.
Just a theory of course.. 8-)

Thank you for bringing this up again. Yes, how convenient that he finished up 2 weeks before his death. Something else that keeps me baffled is where they say he walked with a spring in his step but had to be helped down the stairs at one point. Was he injured for real or was that for show?

This was discussed awhile ago but as time has passed we either see things differently or have more information that could be considered. It's interesting that you say that many hoax settings were and still are prepared there. I believe you are correct. I think we've discussed that parts of the funeral could have been shot earlier. I'll be back as I think of more to say but I do believe you are correct. There was more shooting going on than just Thriller. Blessings.

kdkennedy74 · March 2011

Very interesting....

The one thing I noticed in particular about this article is the way that they describe MJ's demeaner, "he walked with a spring in his step". This is very different from the description that we have gotten from others saying that he was frail and sickly!!!

Another thing that makes me believe even more that he is indeed alive and well somewhere in this world.

everlastinglove_MJ · March 2011

I agree, you both mentioned that "spring" in his step. At the TII rehearsals he didn't have that "spring" step! Or did he? May be they "used" a 3D Michael in TII:? (discussed before in this forum somewhere). Very possible and plausible when I read about Stimulated, Inc. Check this out:  8-) Stimulated, Inc. is a creative production company specializing in content-driven projects. Distinguished as a top provider of ground breaking content for innovative productions, Stimulated was handpicked by Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” concert tour to produce the first-ever 3D films and visual effects sequences to be used in a live concert. Much of the groundbreaking work Stimulated produced with Jackson is featured in “Michael Jackson’s This Is It.” Stimulated offers full-service production and subcontracted services offering innovation, creativity and reliability for the diverse clients and projects we serve . Wow... must be great working there! Need a management assistant or secretary? <!-- s

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<!-- s

--> Robb Wagner is one of the most versatile and multi-talented content creators working today. His reputation for collaboration, responsiveness and his ability to contribute to the vision of the projects he serves is unparalleled. Working in television, concerts and film, Robb’s wealth of experience in not only production and directing, but also his appreciation of technology makes him uniquely aware of individual components working together to form a bigger picture. He is an expert at crafting the individual pieces and bringing them together as one. Robb’s work can be seen in Sony’s feature film, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It”. He worked closely with Jackson and Director Kenny Ortega as Film and Video Producer for Jackson’s planned “This Is It” concert tour. Previously, he’s been sought out as the go-to resource for top-line live productions and events such as the world tour of the Pussycat Dolls, Disney’s “Hannah Montana: Best of Both Worlds” 3D concert film, the “77th Annual Academy Awards” and “The MTV Movie Awards.” Robb earned his membership in the Directors Guild of America in 1998 and launched his own media production company, Stimulated, Inc. in 2005. Stimulated is an easy extension of Robb’s individual career which is also based on a passion for innovation, creativity and completely fresh content. Prior to launching Stimulated, Robb was Producer of “VH1 Big in 2003”, a year-end event special satirizing the year in pop culture, Producer of “G-Phoria”, the first-ever TV award show honoring video games and gaming culture, and Content Producer for the “MTV Video Music Awards”. I noticed the fleur-de-lis logo in the Stimulated Inc. logo 8-) And this: Posts Tagged ‘Culver Studios’ Stimulated : 2009 Recap Friday, January 1st, 2010 Stimulated kicked off 2009 in the UK where we helped launch the Pussycat Dolls “Doll Domination” world tour. The videos we created for the Dolls included original design and animation looks for 25 songs. We also created an opening fantasy film in which the Dolls soared around the world on motorcycles, bringing their brand of glitz and glam to every locale they passed through. Frames from Pussycat Dolls, Opening Fantasy Film Also in January, we were proud to serve at one the official Presidential Inaugural events being held in Washington DC. “We Are The Future: The Kids Inaugural” was a special concert event televised live on The Disney Channel. Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato and Jonas Bros. performed before an audience of military children. The sell-out crowd included the incoming first families. To make this event even more special for the kids, we let elementary school children depict their hope for the future though artwork, and turned their original drawings into video animation used during the performances. Kids Inaugural Concert, Inaugural Eve, Washington DC Robb Wagner worked with VH1 on their live concert special, “Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash”, featuring Fall Out Boy and Rihanna. Wagner rejoined his team at Stimulated in Burbank to work with Kanye West, and an amazingly talented creative team on “VH1 Storytellers”. Later in February, Wagner worked with ABC as Associate Director of the 81st Annual Academy Awards Red Carpet Special. Kanye West performs on VH1 Storytellers Stimulated began its creative work on the 2009 MTV Movie Awards in March. We were excited to collaborate with MTV and Eminem on his comeback performance. The live show aired on May 31st to a highly rated audience. Executive Producer, Mark Burnett provided the following comment: “Robb, Please pass onto your team how impressed I was with this year’s show. You guys put so much work in and your artists are so talented. I honestly love your work. -M” New Music – More Music VideosOn the morning after the Movie Awards we began principal photography on “The Dome Project”, which was our working title for the short films and visual effects sequences we were producing for Michael Jackson’s planned “This Is It” concert tour. We shot these state of the art films over the next two weeks, taking over three full sound stages in Culver City. Michael Jackson’s vision for the films included 3D, which would have been a first-ever experience for concertgoers. Green Screen Set - Michael Jackson's "This Is It" Concert Tour We were in concert production rehearsal at the Staples Center when we suddenly and tragically lost our friend, colleague, and leader. We were so proud and honored to help make Michael Jackson’s memorial service fitting and memorable tribute. In the weeks following Michael Jackson’s passing, the fate of the “Dome Project” was uncertain. The films were incomplete, but we knew in our hearts Michael’s fans deserved to appreciate the work he wanted to put forth at his comeback tour. Michael’s Co-Director, Kenny Ortega felt the same way, and when Sony agreed to let him tell the story of “This Is It”, he made sure the Dome Project was part of the story. Frame from Michael Jackson's This Is It - Main Title Sony Pictures asked Stimulated to finish the films and visual effects sequences. Working closely with Sony, AEG, and Kenny Ortega, we completed the work that Michael Jackson had started. Much of the work can be seen in Sony’s feature film, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It.” To date, moviegoers have not been able to experience the highly developed stereoscopic 3D, which was designed to project on a 90 by 30 foot LED screen set directly behind Michael’s concert stage. The screen was innovative, and would have been the first of its kind, treating concert audiences to a 3D experience. Michael’s fans have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from “The Dome Project” thanks to “This Is It.” How fans will be able to view the state of the art films in their entirety is still unknown. This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert. The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and we have no doubt that time will come. The following is from Director, Kenny Ortega: “Robb – I appreciate the incredible and loving investment you and everyone you invited on to our project made. It has been such a privilege. I have all along appreciated your openness and willingness to do everything within your ability to serve Michael and I at the highest level. You accomplished this in spades. I love you and hope we have many years and projects ahead of us. Please use every opportunity that you have to thank your staff and all your creative team on my behalf for an outstanding job. Michael is smiling down on us all.” After taking some necessary time to recover and regroup, we helped kick off the opening of the Microsoft retail stores. Stimulated partnered with Washington DC firm, Group Incorporated, creating digital signage media for display on 120 plasma screens lining each of the Microsoft stores. Our ability to present architectural 3D renderings assisted in our ability to realize Microsoft’s vision. Microsoft Retail Store Video Screens - Architectural Rendering Needless to say, 2009 pushed Stimulated to new heights, and lead us to build new bonds through some truly groundbreaking efforts. We thank our friends, colleagues and collaborators for a memorable year, and we look forward to serving you in the future. Tags: 3D, 81st annual academy awards, aeg, comeback, concert tour, Culver Studios, Demi Lovato, doll domination tour, eminem, Fall Out Boy, Fantasy Film, green screen, infinite possibilities, Jonas Bros, Kanye West, Kenny Ortega, kids inaugural concert, LED, Mark Burnett, Michael Jackson, microsoft, Miley Cyrus, military children, MTV Movie Awards, original design, pepsi smash, rihanna, short film, sony, staples center, Stereoscopic 3D, storytellers, the disney channel, the dome project, The Pussycat Dolls, This Is It, uk, VH1, visual effects, washington dc, we are the future Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments » Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” Feature Film :: Press Release Monday, November 2nd, 2009 “The slickest parts of ‘This Is It’ are the filmed sequences that were intended to be part of the stage show…” — MSNBC “Director Kenny Ortega’s ultimate vision for the show is fleshed out further with glimpses of interstitial video—the intro into ‘Smooth Criminal,’ which splices a fedora’d Jackson onto vintage footage of Rita Hayworth and Edward G. Robinson, is particularly inspired…” — Variety “…it looks like it would’ve been a helluva show, complete with eco-consciousness-raising, an onstage bulldozer and 3-D ‘Thriller’ footage, newly created to dazzle audiences…” — Chicago Tribune There’s been much talk and praise surrounding the Sony film title, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It”, as it gives audiences a glimpse of the Michael Jackson tour that never was. The film also provides audiences a look at the only completed portion of Michael Jackson’s creative vision for the tour, a series of short films and visual effects segments produced by acclaimed media creator and founder of Stimulated, Inc., Robb Wagner. In the days following the untimely death of Michael Jackson, rumors swirled about a clandestine film operation headed by Michael Jackson known as “The Dome Project.” The Dome Project was a working title coined by Wagner for a series of short films and visual effects segments intended to be part of Jackson’s “This Is It” concert tour. The tour was to commence with a 50-show run at London’s O2 Dome, which led Wagner to come up with the title. Stimulated, Inc., Wagner’s Burbank, CA media production company, was handpicked by Kenny Ortega, AEG and Jackson to produce the film and video elements for the tour. Wagner was appointed as Producer of The Dome Project, with Jackson and Ortega serving as Executive Producers. “Our first face-to-face meeting lasted eleven hours,” said Wagner. “We watched DVDs of MJ’s past work and Kenny was quick to point out that our current work would need to tribute MJ’s legacy as a pioneering video artist. Kenny and MJ considered each other ‘co-directors’, and together they described Michael’s vision for the concerts. Face to face meetings were an integral function of the production. If MJ came up with a new idea, Kenny would tell me ‘he wants to see you’. I would go into wherever MJ was at the time to hear his idea in person. This comeback was MJ’s dream , , and his passion was contagious. Those meetings inspired me, and I wanted to help Michael see his dream come true.” The Dome Project production faced unique challenges due to the relationship of the films and videos to the live concerts. Everything that was planned for the films had to blend in seamlessly with the live shows. Key creative decisions had to be made with the concerts in mind. Wagner is a specialist in creating visual media and bringing it together with larger than life performances. As Producer of The Dome Project, Wagner knew he faced an even bigger challenge. “The project was extremely complicated, but my most important responsibility was to make sure everything we produced was true to Michael Jackson’s vision. He had expectations, and he made them clear.” Wagner called on veteran Visual Effects Supervisor Bruce Jones to direct. Of the planned 25 song set list for the show, 16 songs were to have a film or video element. “Thriller”, “Earth Song” and “Smooth Criminal”, were each to have highly developed short films produced for use in conjunction with the live performances. Two of those three were to be produced in stereographic 3D, a groundbreaking effort. The films were to be presented on a 90 foot by 30 foot LED screen directly behind the concert stage. The screen was innovative, and would have been the first of its kind, treating concert audiences to a 3D experience. Wagner explains the creative concept for how the films were to work in the concerts: “MJ’s plan for the shows was to present short films in 3D. The audience would be cued to put on 3D glasses. Then, at a certain point in each film, live action would unfold on the stage. All of the characters in the film, even the props, would leave the screen and emerge onstage. The story in the film would continue as a theatrical concert performance. MJ called that the ‘4th’ dimension.” Decoy song titles were adopted to preserve the secrecy of the production. On paperwork and in conversation, “Thriller” was referred to as “Graveyard”, “Earth Song” became “Nature”, and “Smooth Criminal” was known as “Crime Scene”. The secretive production overtook three entire stages at Culver Studios, where Jackson had previously filmed many of his earlier videos, including the original “Smooth Criminal”. On the morning of June 1, 2009, eight days of “marathon” filming began on the three sound stages. Michael Jackson attended the filming, keeping a watchful eye on the details. Jackson also starred in one of the films. The production wrapped in the wee hours of June 11, 2009. During the post-production phase of The Dome Project, the live concert team, including Wagner, moved into The Staples Center for two weeks of full-scale rehearsals prior to the planned relocation to London. It was during that time that tragedy struck, and the entire production came to a sudden and unforeseeable halt. In the weeks following the death of Michael Jackson plans were laid for tribute concerts and television specials, none of which came to fruition. Wagner helped put Jackson’s globally televised memorial service together, working with Ortega who remained committed to finish the work that had been started. Then, Sony Pictures Co-Chairman Amy Pascal called Kenny Ortega and told him that Sony wanted to let him tell the story of the planned concert tour in a film release. Ortega set out on his mission still feeling strongly that the Dome Project should be completed. Sony recruited Wagner and the Stimulated team to complete its assignment and finish the work that Michael Jackson had started. Moviegoers have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from The Dome Project thanks to ‘This Is It.’ How fans will be able to view the state of the art films in their entirety is still unknown. “This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert,” said Wagner. “The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and I have no doubt that time will come.”

VeryLittleSusie · March 2011

I bet the Dome Project employees are also responsible for writing scenario for the upcoming Murray trial... 8-)

DOME - "Death of Michael"??? 8-)

suspicious mind · March 2011

scantily clad construction workers wearing carpenter belts :? what would this connect to?

mdc · March 2011

I agree, you both mentioned that "spring" in his step. At the TII rehearsals he didn't have that "spring" step! Or did he? May be they "used" a 3D Michael in TII:? (discussed before in this forum somewhere). Very possible and plausible when I read about Stimulated, Inc. Check this out: http://www.stimulated-inc.com/info/ 8-) Stimulated, Inc. is a creative production company specializing in content-driven projects. Distinguished as a top provider of ground breaking content for innovative productions, Stimulated was handpicked by Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” concert tour to produce the first-ever 3D films and visual effects sequences to be used in a live concert. Much of the groundbreaking work Stimulated produced with Jackson is featured in “Michael Jackson’s This Is It.” Stimulated offers full-service production and subcontracted services offering innovation, creativity and reliability for the diverse clients and projects we serve . Wow... must be great working there! Need a management assistant or secretary?  Robb Wagner is one of the most versatile and multi-talented content creators working today. His reputation for collaboration, responsiveness and his ability to contribute to the vision of the projects he serves is unparalleled. Working in television, concerts and film, Robb’s wealth of experience in not only production and directing, but also his appreciation of technology makes him uniquely aware of individual components working together to form a bigger picture. He is an expert at crafting the individual pieces and bringing them together as one. Robb’s work can be seen in Sony’s feature film, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It”. He worked closely with Jackson and Director Kenny Ortega as Film and Video Producer for Jackson’s planned “This Is It” concert tour. Previously, he’s been sought out as the go-to resource for top-line live productions and events such as the world tour of the Pussycat Dolls, Disney’s “Hannah Montana: Best of Both Worlds” 3D concert film, the “77th Annual Academy Awards” and “The MTV Movie Awards.” Robb earned his membership in the Directors Guild of America in 1998 and launched his own media production company, Stimulated, Inc. in 2005. Stimulated is an easy extension of Robb’s individual career which is also based on a passion for innovation, creativity and completely fresh content. Prior to launching Stimulated, Robb was Producer of “VH1 Big in 2003”, a year-end event special satirizing the year in pop culture, Producer of “G-Phoria”, the first-ever TV award show honoring video games and gaming culture, and Content Producer for the “MTV Video Music Awards”. I noticed the fleur-de-lis logo in the Stimulated Inc. logo 8-) And this: Posts Tagged ‘Culver Studios’ Stimulated : 2009 Recap Friday, January 1st, 2010 Stimulated kicked off 2009 in the UK where we helped launch the Pussycat Dolls “Doll Domination” world tour. The videos we created for the Dolls included original design and animation looks for 25 songs. We also created an opening fantasy film in which the Dolls soared around the world on motorcycles, bringing their brand of glitz and glam to every locale they passed through. Frames from Pussycat Dolls, Opening Fantasy Film Also in January, we were proud to serve at one the official Presidential Inaugural events being held in Washington DC. “We Are The Future: The Kids Inaugural” was a special concert event televised live on The Disney Channel. Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato and Jonas Bros. performed before an audience of military children. The sell-out crowd included the incoming first families. To make this event even more special for the kids, we let elementary school children depict their hope for the future though artwork, and turned their original drawings into video animation used during the performances. Kids Inaugural Concert, Inaugural Eve, Washington DC Robb Wagner worked with VH1 on their live concert special, “Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash”, featuring Fall Out Boy and Rihanna. Wagner rejoined his team at Stimulated in Burbank to work with Kanye West, and an amazingly talented creative team on “VH1 Storytellers”. Later in February, Wagner worked with ABC as Associate Director of the 81st Annual Academy Awards Red Carpet Special. Kanye West performs on VH1 Storytellers Stimulated began its creative work on the 2009 MTV Movie Awards in March. We were excited to collaborate with MTV and Eminem on his comeback performance. The live show aired on May 31st to a highly rated audience. Executive Producer, Mark Burnett provided the following comment: “Robb, Please pass onto your team how impressed I was with this year’s show. You guys put so much work in and your artists are so talented. I honestly love your work. -M” New Music – More Music VideosOn the morning after the Movie Awards we began principal photography on “The Dome Project”, which was our working title for the short films and visual effects sequences we were producing for Michael Jackson’s planned “This Is It” concert tour. We shot these state of the art films over the next two weeks, taking over three full sound stages in Culver City. Michael Jackson’s vision for the films included 3D, which would have been a first-ever experience for concertgoers. Green Screen Set - Michael Jackson's "This Is It" Concert Tour We were in concert production rehearsal at the Staples Center when we suddenly and tragically lost our friend, colleague, and leader. We were so proud and honored to help make Michael Jackson’s memorial service fitting and memorable tribute. In the weeks following Michael Jackson’s passing, the fate of the “Dome Project” was uncertain. The films were incomplete, but we knew in our hearts Michael’s fans deserved to appreciate the work he wanted to put forth at his comeback tour. Michael’s Co-Director, Kenny Ortega felt the same way, and when Sony agreed to let him tell the story of “This Is It”, he made sure the Dome Project was part of the story. Frame from Michael Jackson's This Is It - Main Title Sony Pictures asked Stimulated to finish the films and visual effects sequences. Working closely with Sony, AEG, and Kenny Ortega, we completed the work that Michael Jackson had started. Much of the work can be seen in Sony’s feature film, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It.” To date, moviegoers have not been able to experience the highly developed stereoscopic 3D, which was designed to project on a 90 by 30 foot LED screen set directly behind Michael’s concert stage. The screen was innovative, and would have been the first of its kind, treating concert audiences to a 3D experience. Michael’s fans have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from “The Dome Project” thanks to “This Is It.” How fans will be able to view the state of the art films in their entirety is still unknown. This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert. The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and we have no doubt that time will come. The following is from Director, Kenny Ortega: “Robb – I appreciate the incredible and loving investment you and everyone you invited on to our project made. It has been such a privilege. I have all along appreciated your openness and willingness to do everything within your ability to serve Michael and I at the highest level. You accomplished this in spades. I love you and hope we have many years and projects ahead of us. Please use every opportunity that you have to thank your staff and all your creative team on my behalf for an outstanding job. Michael is smiling down on us all.” After taking some necessary time to recover and regroup, we helped kick off the opening of the Microsoft retail stores. Stimulated partnered with Washington DC firm, Group Incorporated, creating digital signage media for display on 120 plasma screens lining each of the Microsoft stores. Our ability to present architectural 3D renderings assisted in our ability to realize Microsoft’s vision. Microsoft Retail Store Video Screens - Architectural Rendering Needless to say, 2009 pushed Stimulated to new heights, and lead us to build new bonds through some truly groundbreaking efforts. We thank our friends, colleagues and collaborators for a memorable year, and we look forward to serving you in the future. Tags: 3D, 81st annual academy awards, aeg, comeback, concert tour, Culver Studios, Demi Lovato, doll domination tour, eminem, Fall Out Boy, Fantasy Film, green screen, infinite possibilities, Jonas Bros, Kanye West, Kenny Ortega, kids inaugural concert, LED, Mark Burnett, Michael Jackson, microsoft, Miley Cyrus, military children, MTV Movie Awards, original design, pepsi smash, rihanna, short film, sony, staples center, Stereoscopic 3D, storytellers, the disney channel, the dome project, The Pussycat Dolls, This Is It, uk, VH1, visual effects, washington dc, we are the future Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments » Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” Feature Film :: Press Release Monday, November 2nd, 2009 “The slickest parts of ‘This Is It’ are the filmed sequences that were intended to be part of the stage show…” — MSNBC “Director Kenny Ortega’s ultimate vision for the show is fleshed out further with glimpses of interstitial video—the intro into ‘Smooth Criminal,’ which splices a fedora’d Jackson onto vintage footage of Rita Hayworth and Edward G. Robinson, is particularly inspired…” — Variety “…it looks like it would’ve been a helluva show, complete with eco-consciousness-raising, an onstage bulldozer and 3-D ‘Thriller’ footage, newly created to dazzle audiences…” — Chicago Tribune There’s been much talk and praise surrounding the Sony film title, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It”, as it gives audiences a glimpse of the Michael Jackson tour that never was. The film also provides audiences a look at the only completed portion of Michael Jackson’s creative vision for the tour, a series of short films and visual effects segments produced by acclaimed media creator and founder of Stimulated, Inc., Robb Wagner. In the days following the untimely death of Michael Jackson, rumors swirled about a clandestine film operation headed by Michael Jackson known as “The Dome Project.” The Dome Project was a working title coined by Wagner for a series of short films and visual effects segments intended to be part of Jackson’s “This Is It” concert tour. The tour was to commence with a 50-show run at London’s O2 Dome, which led Wagner to come up with the title. Stimulated, Inc., Wagner’s Burbank, CA media production company, was handpicked by Kenny Ortega, AEG and Jackson to produce the film and video elements for the tour. Wagner was appointed as Producer of The Dome Project, with Jackson and Ortega serving as Executive Producers. “Our first face-to-face meeting lasted eleven hours,” said Wagner. “We watched DVDs of MJ’s past work and Kenny was quick to point out that our current work would need to tribute MJ’s legacy as a pioneering video artist. Kenny and MJ considered each other ‘co-directors’, and together they described Michael’s vision for the concerts. Face to face meetings were an integral function of the production. If MJ came up with a new idea, Kenny would tell me ‘he wants to see you’. I would go into wherever MJ was at the time to hear his idea in person. This comeback was MJ’s dream , , and his passion was contagious. Those meetings inspired me, and I wanted to help Michael see his dream come true.” The Dome Project production faced unique challenges due to the relationship of the films and videos to the live concerts. Everything that was planned for the films had to blend in seamlessly with the live shows. Key creative decisions had to be made with the concerts in mind. Wagner is a specialist in creating visual media and bringing it together with larger than life performances. As Producer of The Dome Project, Wagner knew he faced an even bigger challenge. “The project was extremely complicated, but my most important responsibility was to make sure everything we produced was true to Michael Jackson’s vision. He had expectations, and he made them clear.” Wagner called on veteran Visual Effects Supervisor Bruce Jones to direct. Of the planned 25 song set list for the show, 16 songs were to have a film or video element. “Thriller”, “Earth Song” and “Smooth Criminal”, were each to have highly developed short films produced for use in conjunction with the live performances. Two of those three were to be produced in stereographic 3D, a groundbreaking effort. The films were to be presented on a 90 foot by 30 foot LED screen directly behind the concert stage. The screen was innovative, and would have been the first of its kind, treating concert audiences to a 3D experience. Wagner explains the creative concept for how the films were to work in the concerts: “MJ’s plan for the shows was to present short films in 3D. The audience would be cued to put on 3D glasses. Then, at a certain point in each film, live action would unfold on the stage. All of the characters in the film, even the props, would leave the screen and emerge onstage. The story in the film would continue as a theatrical concert performance. MJ called that the ‘4th’ dimension.” Decoy song titles were adopted to preserve the secrecy of the production. On paperwork and in conversation, “Thriller” was referred to as “Graveyard”, “Earth Song” became “Nature”, and “Smooth Criminal” was known as “Crime Scene”. The secretive production overtook three entire stages at Culver Studios, where Jackson had previously filmed many of his earlier videos, including the original “Smooth Criminal”. On the morning of June 1, 2009, eight days of “marathon” filming began on the three sound stages. Michael Jackson attended the filming, keeping a watchful eye on the details. Jackson also starred in one of the films. The production wrapped in the wee hours of June 11, 2009. During the post-production phase of The Dome Project, the live concert team, including Wagner, moved into The Staples Center for two weeks of full-scale rehearsals prior to the planned relocation to London. It was during that time that tragedy struck, and the entire production came to a sudden and unforeseeable halt. In the weeks following the death of Michael Jackson plans were laid for tribute concerts and television specials, none of which came to fruition. Wagner helped put Jackson’s globally televised memorial service together, working with Ortega who remained committed to finish the work that had been started. Then, Sony Pictures Co-Chairman Amy Pascal called Kenny Ortega and told him that Sony wanted to let him tell the story of the planned concert tour in a film release. Ortega set out on his mission still feeling strongly that the Dome Project should be completed. Sony recruited Wagner and the Stimulated team to complete its assignment and finish the work that Michael Jackson had started. Moviegoers have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from The Dome Project thanks to ‘This Is It.’ How fans will be able to view the state of the art films in their entirety is still unknown. “This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert,” said Wagner. “The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and I have no doubt that time will come.”

I read that wrong I think...with my hoax glasses on. lol

MJonmind · March 2011

This is very interesting!

“This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert,” said Wagner. “The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and I have no doubt that time will come.”

I wonder if some of it will be part of Cirque du Soleil, the Immortal Tour, with a surprise appearance 8-) .
"Spring in his step" reminds me of his walking to the O2 stage for his speech.
As for the "scantily clad construction workers", hmm... I guess something for everyone! <!-- s

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So possibly the ambulance shot was taken at Culver Studios. A leaf sprig from the jungle set blew over accidently!

everlastinglove_MJ · March 2011

This is very interesting!

“This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert,” said Wagner. “The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and I have no doubt that time will come.”

I wonder if some of it will be part of Cirque du Soleil, the Immortal Tour, with a surprise appearance 8-) .
"Spring in his step" reminds me of his walking to the O2 stage for his speech.
As for the "scantily clad construction workers", hmm... I guess something for everyone! 
So possibly the ambulance shot was taken at Culver Studios. A leaf sprig from the jungle set blew over accidently!

Yes, I think the Immortal Tour will be a innovative project concerning 3D technology and according to this link , the Immortal Tour "uses 3D technology to make you feel Jackson is really on stage" and "a show reported to make audiences feel as though Michael Jackson is alive." hmmm 8-)

A leaf sprig from the jungle set blew over accidently!

lol, accidently on purpose, well it could be a hint ;)

Unknown · March 2011

When they say -Moviegoers have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from The Dome Project thanks to ‘This Is It.
Is that trying to say (in our minds, if we look from a hoax point of view) that TII is linked the TDP which means TII was never going to be a concert but an introduction to TDP? If that makes sense.

everlastinglove_MJ · March 2011

When they say -Moviegoers have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from The Dome Project thanks to ‘This Is It.
Is that trying to say (in our minds, if we look from a hoax point of view) that TII is linked the TDP which means TII was never going to be a concert but an introduction to TDP? If that makes sense.

Yes, I think it makes sense. May be This Is It is just a "small" part of the whole DP ;)

everlastinglove_MJ · March 2011

I agree, you both mentioned that "spring" in his step. At the TII rehearsals he didn't have that "spring" step! Or did he? May be they "used" a 3D Michael in TII:? (discussed before in this forum somewhere). Very possible and plausible when I read about Stimulated, Inc. Check this out: http://www.stimulated-inc.com/info/ 8-) [size=14pt]Stimulated, Inc.[/size] is a creative production company specializing in content-driven projects. Distinguished as a top provider of ground breaking content for innovative productions, Stimulated was handpicked by Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” concert tour to produce the first-ever 3D films and visual effects sequences to be used in a live concert. Much of the groundbreaking work Stimulated produced with Jackson is featured in “Michael Jackson’s This Is It.” Stimulated offers full-service production and subcontracted services offering innovation, creativity and reliability for the diverse clients and projects we serve . Wow... must be great working there! Need a management assistant or secretary?  Robb Wagner is one of the most versatile and multi-talented content creators working today. His reputation for collaboration, responsiveness and his ability to contribute to the vision of the projects he serves is unparalleled. Working in television, concerts and film, Robb’s wealth of experience in not only production and directing, but also his appreciation of technology makes him uniquely aware of individual components working together to form a bigger picture. He is an expert at crafting the individual pieces and bringing them together as one. Robb’s work can be seen in Sony’s feature film, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It”. He worked closely with Jackson and Director Kenny Ortega as Film and Video Producer for Jackson’s planned “This Is It” concert tour. Previously, he’s been sought out as the go-to resource for top-line live productions and events such as the world tour of the Pussycat Dolls, Disney’s “Hannah Montana: Best of Both Worlds” 3D concert film, the “77th Annual Academy Awards” and “The MTV Movie Awards.” Robb earned his membership in the Directors Guild of America in 1998 and launched his own media production company, Stimulated, Inc. in 2005. Stimulated is an easy extension of Robb’s individual career which is also based on a passion for innovation, creativity and completely fresh content. Prior to launching Stimulated, Robb was Producer of “VH1 Big in 2003”, a year-end event special satirizing the year in pop culture, Producer of “G-Phoria”, the first-ever TV award show honoring video games and gaming culture, and Content Producer for the “MTV Video Music Awards”. I noticed the fleur-de-lis logo in the Stimulated Inc. logo 8-) And this: Posts Tagged ‘Culver Studios’ Stimulated : 2009 Recap Friday, January 1st, 2010 Stimulated kicked off 2009 in the UK where we helped launch the Pussycat Dolls “Doll Domination” world tour. The videos we created for the Dolls included original design and animation looks for 25 songs. We also created an opening fantasy film in which the Dolls soared around the world on motorcycles, bringing their brand of glitz and glam to every locale they passed through. Frames from Pussycat Dolls, Opening Fantasy Film Also in January, we were proud to serve at one the official Presidential Inaugural events being held in Washington DC. “We Are The Future: The Kids Inaugural” was a special concert event televised live on The Disney Channel. Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato and Jonas Bros. performed before an audience of military children. The sell-out crowd included the incoming first families. To make this event even more special for the kids, we let elementary school children depict their hope for the future though artwork, and turned their original drawings into video animation used during the performances. Kids Inaugural Concert, Inaugural Eve, Washington DC Robb Wagner worked with VH1 on their live concert special, “Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash”, featuring Fall Out Boy and Rihanna. Wagner rejoined his team at Stimulated in Burbank to work with Kanye West, and an amazingly talented creative team on “VH1 Storytellers”. Later in February, Wagner worked with ABC as Associate Director of the 81st Annual Academy Awards Red Carpet Special. Kanye West performs on VH1 Storytellers Stimulated began its creative work on the 2009 MTV Movie Awards in March. We were excited to collaborate with MTV and Eminem on his comeback performance. The live show aired on May 31st to a highly rated audience. Executive Producer, Mark Burnett provided the following comment: “Robb, Please pass onto your team how impressed I was with this year’s show. You guys put so much work in and your artists are so talented. I honestly love your work. -M” New Music – More Music VideosOn the morning after the Movie Awards we began principal photography on “The Dome Project”, which was our working title for the short films and visual effects sequences we were producing for Michael Jackson’s planned “This Is It” concert tour. We shot these state of the art films over the next two weeks, taking over three full sound stages in Culver City. Michael Jackson’s vision for the films included 3D, which would have been a first-ever experience for concertgoers. Green Screen Set - Michael Jackson's "This Is It" Concert Tour We were in concert production rehearsal at the Staples Center when we suddenly and tragically lost our friend, colleague, and leader. We were so proud and honored to help make Michael Jackson’s memorial service fitting and memorable tribute. In the weeks following Michael Jackson’s passing, the fate of the “Dome Project” was uncertain. The films were incomplete, but we knew in our hearts Michael’s fans deserved to appreciate the work he wanted to put forth at his comeback tour. Michael’s Co-Director, Kenny Ortega felt the same way, and when Sony agreed to let him tell the story of “This Is It”, he made sure the Dome Project was part of the story. Frame from Michael Jackson's This Is It - Main Title Sony Pictures asked Stimulated to finish the films and visual effects sequences. Working closely with Sony, AEG, and Kenny Ortega, we completed the work that Michael Jackson had started. Much of the work can be seen in Sony’s feature film, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It.” To date, moviegoers have not been able to experience the highly developed stereoscopic 3D, which was designed to project on a 90 by 30 foot LED screen set directly behind Michael’s concert stage. The screen was innovative, and would have been the first of its kind, treating concert audiences to a 3D experience. Michael’s fans have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from “The Dome Project” thanks to “This Is It.” How fans will be able to view the state of the art films in their entirety is still unknown. This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert. The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and we have no doubt that time will come. The following is from Director, Kenny Ortega: “Robb – I appreciate the incredible and loving investment you and everyone you invited on to our project made. It has been such a privilege. I have all along appreciated your openness and willingness to do everything within your ability to serve Michael and I at the highest level. You accomplished this in spades. I love you and hope we have many years and projects ahead of us. Please use every opportunity that you have to thank your staff and all your creative team on my behalf for an outstanding job. Michael is smiling down on us all.” After taking some necessary time to recover and regroup, we helped kick off the opening of the Microsoft retail stores. Stimulated partnered with Washington DC firm, Group Incorporated, creating digital signage media for display on 120 plasma screens lining each of the Microsoft stores. Our ability to present architectural 3D renderings assisted in our ability to realize Microsoft’s vision. Microsoft Retail Store Video Screens - Architectural Rendering Needless to say, 2009 pushed Stimulated to new heights, and lead us to build new bonds through some truly groundbreaking efforts. We thank our friends, colleagues and collaborators for a memorable year, and we look forward to serving you in the future. Tags: 3D, 81st annual academy awards, aeg, comeback, concert tour, Culver Studios, Demi Lovato, doll domination tour, eminem, Fall Out Boy, Fantasy Film, green screen, infinite possibilities, Jonas Bros, Kanye West, Kenny Ortega, kids inaugural concert, LED, Mark Burnett, Michael Jackson, microsoft, Miley Cyrus, military children, MTV Movie Awards, original design, pepsi smash, rihanna, short film, sony, staples center, Stereoscopic 3D, storytellers, the disney channel, the dome project, The Pussycat Dolls, This Is It, uk, VH1, visual effects, washington dc, we are the future Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments » Michael Jackson’s “This Is It” Feature Film :: Press Release Monday, November 2nd, 2009 “The slickest parts of ‘This Is It’ are the filmed sequences that were intended to be part of the stage show…” — MSNBC “Director Kenny Ortega’s ultimate vision for the show is fleshed out further with glimpses of interstitial video—the intro into ‘Smooth Criminal,’ which splices a fedora’d Jackson onto vintage footage of Rita Hayworth and Edward G. Robinson, is particularly inspired…” — Variety “…it looks like it would’ve been a helluva show, complete with eco-consciousness-raising, an onstage bulldozer and 3-D ‘Thriller’ footage, newly created to dazzle audiences…” — Chicago Tribune There’s been much talk and praise surrounding the Sony film title, “Michael Jackson’s This Is It”, as it gives audiences a glimpse of the Michael Jackson tour that never was. The film also provides audiences a look at the only completed portion of Michael Jackson’s creative vision for the tour, a series of short films and visual effects segments produced by acclaimed media creator and founder of Stimulated, Inc., Robb Wagner. In the days following the untimely death of Michael Jackson, rumors swirled about a clandestine film operation headed by Michael Jackson known as “The Dome Project.” The Dome Project was a working title coined by Wagner for a series of short films and visual effects segments intended to be part of Jackson’s “This Is It” concert tour. The tour was to commence with a 50-show run at London’s O2 Dome, which led Wagner to come up with the title. Stimulated, Inc., Wagner’s Burbank, CA media production company, was handpicked by Kenny Ortega, AEG and Jackson to produce the film and video elements for the tour. Wagner was appointed as Producer of The Dome Project, with Jackson and Ortega serving as Executive Producers. “Our first face-to-face meeting lasted eleven hours,” said Wagner. “We watched DVDs of MJ’s past work and Kenny was quick to point out that our current work would need to tribute MJ’s legacy as a pioneering video artist. Kenny and MJ considered each other ‘co-directors’, and together they described Michael’s vision for the concerts. Face to face meetings were an integral function of the production. If MJ came up with a new idea, Kenny would tell me ‘he wants to see you’. I would go into wherever MJ was at the time to hear his idea in person. This comeback was MJ’s dream , , and his passion was contagious. Those meetings inspired me, and I wanted to help Michael see his dream come true.” The Dome Project production faced unique challenges due to the relationship of the films and videos to the live concerts. Everything that was planned for the films had to blend in seamlessly with the live shows. Key creative decisions had to be made with the concerts in mind. Wagner is a specialist in creating visual media and bringing it together with larger than life performances. As Producer of The Dome Project, Wagner knew he faced an even bigger challenge. “The project was extremely complicated, but my most important responsibility was to make sure everything we produced was true to Michael Jackson’s vision. He had expectations, and he made them clear.” Wagner called on veteran Visual Effects Supervisor Bruce Jones to direct. Of the planned 25 song set list for the show, 16 songs were to have a film or video element. “Thriller”, “Earth Song” and “Smooth Criminal”, were each to have highly developed short films produced for use in conjunction with the live performances. Two of those three were to be produced in stereographic 3D, a groundbreaking effort. The films were to be presented on a 90 foot by 30 foot LED screen directly behind the concert stage. The screen was innovative, and would have been the first of its kind, treating concert audiences to a 3D experience. Wagner explains the creative concept for how the films were to work in the concerts: “MJ’s plan for the shows was to present short films in 3D. The audience would be cued to put on 3D glasses. Then, at a certain point in each film, live action would unfold on the stage. All of the characters in the film, even the props, would leave the screen and emerge onstage. The story in the film would continue as a theatrical concert performance. MJ called that the ‘4th’ dimension.” Decoy song titles were adopted to preserve the secrecy of the production. On paperwork and in conversation, “Thriller” was referred to as “Graveyard”, “Earth Song” became “Nature”, and “Smooth Criminal” was known as “Crime Scene”. The secretive production overtook three entire stages at Culver Studios, where Jackson had previously filmed many of his earlier videos, including the original “Smooth Criminal”. On the morning of June 1, 2009, eight days of “marathon” filming began on the three sound stages. Michael Jackson attended the filming, keeping a watchful eye on the details. Jackson also starred in one of the films. The production wrapped in the wee hours of June 11, 2009. During the post-production phase of The Dome Project, the live concert team, including Wagner, moved into The Staples Center for two weeks of full-scale rehearsals prior to the planned relocation to London. It was during that time that tragedy struck, and the entire production came to a sudden and unforeseeable halt. In the weeks following the death of Michael Jackson plans were laid for tribute concerts and television specials, none of which came to fruition. Wagner helped put Jackson’s globally televised memorial service together, working with Ortega who remained committed to finish the work that had been started. Then, Sony Pictures Co-Chairman Amy Pascal called Kenny Ortega and told him that Sony wanted to let him tell the story of the planned concert tour in a film release. Ortega set out on his mission still feeling strongly that the Dome Project should be completed. Sony recruited Wagner and the Stimulated team to complete its assignment and finish the work that Michael Jackson had started. Moviegoers have now been treated to excerpts and behind the scenes footage from The Dome Project thanks to ‘This Is It.’ How fans will be able to view the state of the art films in their entirety is still unknown. [size=14pt]“This work was intended to be part of one of the most exciting entertainment events possible, a Michael Jackson concert,” said Wagner. “The fans deserve their chance to appreciate The Dome Project, and I have no doubt that time will come.”[/size]

 I read that wrong I think...with my hoax glasses on. lol

lol, no matter what :geek: 8-) or without glasses :shock:

underthemoon · April 2011

I found this on IMDB :



never seen it before there.

fordtocarr · April 2011

I found this on IMDB :

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1724548/

never seen it before there.

Yeah, it's strange.. This don't explain the movie. And look who wrote it, and the CAST! Also, it was in 2010! This is weird. Also, WHERE is this movie..and WHO put it on this site???

ASCENSION · April 2011

I bet the Dome Project employees are also responsible for writing scenario for the upcoming Murray trial... 8-)

DOME - "Death of Michael"??? 8-)

DOME PROJECT = Death Of ME

Let's see what is going to tell us the new film of Ortega that is coming in july 2011. :arrow: Shoud talk about the hoax..

everlastinglove_MJ · April 2011

I bet the Dome Project employees are also responsible for writing scenario for the upcoming Murray trial... 8-)

DOME - "Death of Michael"??? 8-)

DOME PROJECT = Death Of ME

Let's see what is going to tell us the new film of Ortega that is coming in july 2011. :arrow: Shoud talk about the hoax..

Hmm..interesting. Do you mean "In The Heights" . Or do you mean another movie?

MadneZ · June 2011

Couldn't just the Dome project been the mini movie Smooth Criminal they had in, and the whole earth/nature and the child mini movie ?

everlastinglove_MJ · June 2011

Michael Jackson- Where the Dome Project Came Into the Show The rumor mill during production and after rehearsals circled heavily around a mysterious “Dome Project” Jackson was working on. By now, if you’ve seen the This Is It movie, then you’ll know that the Dome Project included several specially shot scenes designed to amplify Jackson’s songs during the London tour. These shoots were directed by Jackson and included many on his creative team, including Michael Cotton, Kenny Ortega, the choreographers and dancers. Much of the footage was to be displayed on the 90-foot-wide 3D LED wall. The wall was designed to show both the 2D content and the exclusive 3D shoots. All of the content was being edited to fit on the large format screen. Here is some more information on some of the segments shot: Marching Soldiers for They Don’t Really Care About Us: All of this was shot with just a few dancers in 2D in front of a green screen, and then the soldiers were multiplied using CG into thousands. It was pitched to the creators to consider doing this in 3D, which would have added an incredible dimension to the amount of marching troops on screen. For one creative reason or another the idea was nixed. I can understand why because the best content was reserved for 3D and saved for the latter part of the show. Smooth Criminal: This was shot with Jackson on a green screen in 2D and then brilliantly compiled with the classic black and white movie Gilda. The scenes were going to be used as the intro piece as well as background content throughout the performance of Smooth Criminal. Thriller: All of this footage was shot in 3D and supporting CG was also rendered in 3D. The great part about this was the dimension that 3D video brings to content in comparison to even HD or high resolution 2D content. The 3D elements would have immersed the entire crowd into the performance, and the dead bride and groom puppets were going to heighten the entire experience. The complete remake of this hit song was a VERY big deal, and the new technology adapted for it added a whole new fresh look for the performance than what fans had seen in the past. The content added a scary yet humorous approach just like the classic short film shot did that put Jackson on the map as a solo act. Jackson’s taste in entertainment shines through in the directing style and creativity that he brought to these scenes, which you can see in the This Is It movie. Earth Song: In similar fashion to the Thriller content this was all shot in 3D and was going to make an incredible impact. The supporting bull dozer prop that was created was in essence going to be used to bring the 3D content to real life on stage. After drawing in the audience, the entire segment would climax dramatically with Jackson standing in the path of the bull dozer. You can see Jackson’s brilliance in the film when he directs Ortega and the band to let the bull dozer close in silence and then allow the music to play softly as it backed