Actors Urged To Avoid Michael Jackson Movie

Union bosses at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) have warned members not to take part in the documentary about Michael Jackson's doomed This Is It tour.

Sony Pictures have purchased rehearsal and behind-the-scenes footage from concert promoters AEG Live, filmed at Los Angeles' Staples Center, as Jackson prepared for his residency at London's o2 Arena.

Sony has planned a two-week run for the film beginning 28 October (09); however, SAG bosses have announced that the film's producers have not agreed to the minimum basic terms and conditions for performers and background actors employed on the project.

A statement from the union reads: "Guild members are reminded of their obligation not to accept employment on any non-signatory project, as well as their obligation to confirm with the guild that a project is signatory.

"Employment on any non-signatory project within the guild's jurisdiction may subject a member to a Rule One violation."

The union did not have jurisdiction over rehearsals and behind-the-scenes footage during filming, which it expects to be a feature release.

Jackson was set to take the stage in July (09), just weeks after he died from cardiac arrest on 25 June (09).