Thriller

About

Michael Jackson's "Thriller" is a groundbreaking music video that blended music and filmmaking in a way that transformed the genre. Directed by John Landis, it was released on December 2, 1983, and features Jackson and Ola Ray in a narrative that pays homage to classic horror films. The video's choreographed zombie dance, designed by Michael Peters, became iconic and has been reenacted globally. The production involved a significant budget of $500,000, reflecting its ambitious scope. "Thriller" not only elevated Jackson's status but also influenced music video production, breaking racial barriers and popularizing the making-of documentary format. It was named the greatest video by MTV, VH1, and others, and in 2009, it became the first music video inducted into the US National Film Registry. The video's impact extends beyond its release, inspiring future artists and cementing its place in pop culture history.