Patent Holder
The Anti-Gravity Lean Innovation
Michael Jackson wasn't just an artist — he was an inventor. He patented special shoes that allowed him to perform the impossible lean in "Smooth Criminal."
The physics-defying 45-degree lean
The Impossible Lean
In the 1988 movie "Moonwalker" and subsequent live performances, MJ performed a move that seemed to defy physics — leaning forward at a 45-degree angle while keeping his body completely straight. The lean appeared impossible, leaving audiences wondering how it was achieved.
The Patent: US 5,255,452
In 1993, Michael Jackson and two co-inventors were granted U.S. Patent 5,255,452 for "Method and Means for Creating Anti-Gravity Illusion." The shoes featured a special heel slot that locked into a peg rising from the stage floor, allowing performers to lean beyond their natural center of gravity while appearing to stand freely.
Engineering Meets Artistry
The invention demonstrated MJ's commitment to pushing performance boundaries through innovation. While the lean required the special shoes and stage setup, it still demanded incredible core strength and practice. The patent is a testament to how MJ approached every aspect of his performances with meticulous attention to detail.
MJ's innovative anti-gravity shoe design