The feature film which follows Michael Jackson's preparations for his ill-fated comeback shows in London will only be screened in cinemas for two weeks, according to reports.

Trade publication Variety reports the This Is It spectacle will hit the big screen on October 28 – two days earlier than previously announced.

The film, directed by Kenny Ortega, features footage of Jackson rehearsing for his planned 50 comeback concerts at the O2 Arena.

The gigs were set to begin on July 13 - just over two weeks after the singer's sudden death.

Ortega, who was choreographing the concerts, said: "This is Michael's gift to his fans. As we began assembling the footage for the motion picture, we realised we captured something extraordinary, unique and very special.

“It's a very private, exclusive look at a creative genius' world."

The footage was acquired by Sony Pictures from concert promoters AEG Live in a deal reported to be worth $60million.

Tickets for the screenings are due to go on sale in September.

(by Jason Gregory)