This film tells the story of how Michael Jackson (Juliano Valdi) gave up his childhood to be the lead singer for the band The Jackson 5. From the time he was five, he was forced by his father Joe Jackson (Colman Domingo) to spend hours rehearsing with his brothers and if he or any of his brothers weren't perfect, they were beaten with a belt. They found success early due to Michael's extraordinary voice, and their success changed their lives from being a poor family in Gary, Indiana to multi-millionaires with a huge mansion and grounds in Encino, California.

Having never had any friends beyond his brothers, and unable to make any because of his fame, Michael (Jafaar Jackson) gets exotic pets as his friends, including a chimp named Bubbles, all of whom Michael treats with love and gentleness. As Michael grows to be an adult, he tries to break away from his bully of a father, but even then he's afraid of him. Michael does manage to record two solo albums that make him the biggest recording artist in the world, but meets with opposition from his father, who wants him to remain part of The Jackson 5.