Jackson's Swan Song to Premiere at Midnight

Simultaneously in 18 countries, "This Is It" will premiere at midnight tonight. The film is a documentary of over 100 hours of footage from Jackson's rehearsals for the canceled world tour also titled "This Is It."

The tour was supposed to begin in the 02 arena in London and continue for 50 dates around the world. Unfortunately, the tour was canceled because of Jackson's sudden death due to an accidental drug overdose. In recognition, AEG Live the promoters behind the concert series made a deal with Sony Pictures that was approved by the Jackson estate to turn the footage into a film. Sony ended up paying AEG $60 million for the rights to distribute the film.

Jackson, whose death was ruled a homicide, was just two weeks away from the opening night at the O2 arena at the time of his demise. The footage was originally intended to help Jackson and his team assess the work put into each show and never was suppose to be released to the public.

According to BBC.com, "More than 800,000 tickets had been sold for the concerts, with organizers promising one of the 'most expensive and technically advanced' live shows ever."

Now fans will be able to see what Jackson and his crew had in mind on the big screen all over the world for a limited release. But fear not, Jackson fans. Though many viewings of the film may be sold out, early 2010 will bring about the film on DVD.