Christmas Isn't It—Michael Jackson's This Is It DVD Bumped to January

M.J.'s concert doc moves home video release after gripes from theater owners; now timed for Grammys, not Christmas

So much for that Michael Jackson stocking stuffer.

Despite initial indications that the hit behind-the-scenes concert doc This Is It would be out on DVD in time for the yuletide, Sony today announced that the home video release was being bumped to Jan. 26.

And who was the Grinch that stole M.J. fans' Christmas?

That would be the same folks who charge us $10 for a tub o' popcorn.

Aggrieved theater owners felt the quick turnaround between the film's release and the DVD/Blu-ray would cut into ticket sales.

In what many perceived as a publicity stunt, Sony initially announced that This Is It would would only play in theaters for two weeks beginning on Oct. 28. But once showings started selling out, that window was extended.

So far the film has grossed over $200 million worldwide, so we're not really sure whether theater owners have a reason to gripe. (Did we mention those popcorn prices? We should be the ones griping...)

Today's announcement means This Is It will hit store shelves just a few days ahead of the Grammy Awards, which are scheduled to take place on Jan. 31.

As for the home video release, both the DVD and Blu-ray will feature several minidocumentaries on the preparation for what would have been Jackson's comeback concerts, including the grueling auditions for backup dancers, the costuming process and director Kenny Ortega's personal memories of working with Jackson.

Additionally, the Blu-ray will have two brand-new music videos for "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal," culled from the rehearsal footage.