problem : Physics
Updated: Sep 19
PROBLEM: PHYSICS.
There are performance problems.And then there are problems that apparently require a United States patent.
The anti-gravity lean had already become one of the most impossible-looking moments associated with Smooth Criminal. On film, illusion could do part of the work. On stage, Michael wanted something that could work live.
So the answer wasn’t simply choreography.
It was engineering.
On June 29, 1992, Michael J. Jackson, Michael L. Bush and Dennis Tompkins filed a patent for a system designed to let a performer lean forward beyond the normal center of gravity.
The idea was brilliantly mechanical: a specially designed slot in the heel of the shoe could engage with a hitch rising from the stage floor. Once connected, the performer had an anchor.
Gravity was still very much present.
It had simply been given some paperwork.
The patent was granted on October 26, 1993:
US PATENT // 5,255,452PROBLEM: PHYSICS.
BRO’S SOLUTION: ENGINEERING.
Because apparently “that move looks impossible” was not an acceptable final answer.
M77_A58 CODES
CODES to wear.STORIES to read.
WEAR THE CODE
SEE THE PATENT
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