Michael’s relationship with his father. Joseph managed The Jackson 5 and viewed his children as a source of income. The film’s narrative centers on the relationship between Michael and Joseph. Michael had to find the courage to break free from his father’s control in order to launch his solo career because he felt he could explore more creative avenues and disliked his father’s work style—he had his own way of doing things. Ultimately, Michael decided to step away from The Jackson 5 and disband the group he had helped build without his father’s approval.