---
title: "Michael Jackson's Thriller"
year: 1983
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/michael-jackson-s-thriller-1983"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 92060
imdb_id: "tt0088263"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 14
community_rating: 8.3
vote_count: 778
content_rating: "PG"
---

# Michael Jackson's Thriller (1983) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/michael-jackson-s-thriller-1983

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Michael Jackson's short film is a music video that was released in conjunction with his album Thriller. The film is a night at the movies that turns into a terrifying experience. It features Michael Jackson and his date being attacked by zombies. The short film was released at the height of Thriller's success and had a significant impact on the music video genre. It broke racial barriers and was a groundbreaking work in its time. The film was inducted into the U.S. National Film Registry, marking a notable achievement in its recognition. The short film's influence and impact on popular culture are still acknowledged today.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A night at the movies turns terrifying for Michael and his date."

### Why Watch
- Redefined the music video
- Broke racial barriers

### Caveats & Content Note
- Short runtime
- Contains terrifying zombie attacks
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains terrifying scenes involving zombies.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: terrifying, musical, historic

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/michael-jackson-s-thriller-1983#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: John Landis
- **Networks / Studios**: Optimum Productions

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Michael Jackson** as *Michael Jackson*
- **Ola Ray** as *Michael's Girlfriend*
- **Vincent Price** as *Narrator (voice)*
- **Cynthia Garris** as *Zombie (uncredited)*
- **Mick Garris** as *Zombie (uncredited)*
- **Hanala Sagal** as *Dancer (uncredited)*
- **Forrest J. Ackerman** as *Man in Movie Theater (uncredited)*
- **Reed Armstrong** as *Zombie (uncredited)*
- **Rick Baker** as *Zombie Opening the Crypt (uncredited)*
- **Miko C. Brando** as *Zombie (uncredited)*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was Michael Jackson's Thriller released?
It was released on 11/21/1983 in the US.

### Q: What genres are associated with the film?
The film is categorized under horror, music, and thriller.

### Q: What is the runtime of the film?
The runtime of the film is 14 minutes.

### Q: What is the basic premise of the film?
A night at the movies turns terrifying when Michael and his date are attacked by zombies.

### Q: What is a notable historical achievement of the film?
It redefined the music video, broke racial barriers, and became the first inducted into the U.S. National Film Registry.

---
*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*