“You” is an Asian-American girl. She doesn’t talk or smile. She just poses and dances. Her allure is the basis of the song, but make no mistake about it; Michael Jackson is the star of the show. It’s the first song video from his Invincible album and it’s an epic affair; a 13-minute mini-movie, in fact. That Chris Tucker, along with Marlon Brando, Michael Madsen and Billy Drago, are featured is almost a side note, as is the erratic plot. You Rock My World is all about Mike and how cool he is.

The video doesn’t match the aesthetic quality of the song, one of his best, but it is visually appealing. From the cinematography to the set and costume design; 1940s/1950s Mafia era; it’s all warm and sleek. Michael Jackson, I must say, looks damn good here and the man can still move. The best parts are when he’s doing a new strut I’d describe as a sort of reverse Moonwalk. It’s an exquisite display of artistry and I wish it weren’t edited down to just a few seconds near the middle.

my rating : 4 of 5

2001