A feature film based on Michael Jackson -- using more than 80 hours of footage from his rehearsals for the 50-date London series the King of Pop was working toward before his death -- is in the works.

Sony Pictures Entertainment, according to Variety blogger Mike Fleming, is negotiating with AEG Entertainment, which has been showcasing the footage to studios; it is believed Sony will pay about $50 million for the footage. Kenny Ortega, the director of the High School Musical films, will reportedly direct.

• TAGS

• Jackson Movie
• Kenny Ortega
• Michael Jackson
• This Is It