Ortega 'plays down Oscar hopes'

Rex Features

The director of Michael Jackson documentary This Is It has declared it "wishful thinking" to believe that the movie could win an Oscar.

The picture had been rumoured to already be in contention for an Academy Award, however helmer Kenny Ortega played down the film's chances.

"Awards, Oscars, that's all great wishful thinking," he told CBS News.

"What we did here was focus on telling a good story and creating a film for the fans, really enabling them to understand what Michael Jackson had dreamed for them."

This Is It was released too late to be eligible for the 'Best Documentary' category, but is still permitted for the 'Best Picture' award.