Michael Jackson was first and foremost a singer and dancer, but he was also the type of performer who surpassed genres and inspired artists across all mediums. Here’s a look at some memorable movie moments that made use of Jackson’s music:

6. The Wiz and Captain EO: Jackson appeared as an actor in two films. (Of course, he sang in both.) His movie debut was as The Scarecrow in this urban re-imagining of The Wizard of Oz. But to anyone who visited Disney World’s Epcot Center in the 80s, his signature role will be as the moonwalking Captain EO. Hopefully in the wake of Jackson’s death, Disney will finally have the good sense to release this 3D classic on DVD.

5. Free Willy: Jackson scored a modest hit with “Will You Be There?” form this whale-saving family film’s soundtrack. But he also had a hand in another hit featured in the movie. 90’s R&B girl group SWV sampled his song “Human Nature” in their hit single “Right Here.”

4. Center Stage: Anyone who watches reality dance competitions like So You Think You Can Dance has seen countless dancers gush over what an inspiration Michael Jackson is to them. This theme translated to the big screen in the 2000 dance movie Center Stage, in which the climactic ballet (complete with motorcycle stunts!) was performed to Jackson’s “The Way You Make Me Feel.”

3. Ben: Michael’s first single as a solo artist was the theme song to (and most memorable thing about) this movie about a friendship between a boy and a rat.

2. Zoolander: The epic “walk-off” between dueling male models Derek and Hansel was the centerpiece of this hilarious Ben Stiller farce. Naturally, they turned to Michael Jackson’s 80s classic “Beat It”, whose video featured the most badass dance-off all time, to provide the soundtrack.

1. 13 Going On 30: As an 80s child trapped in the body of a 21st century 30-year-old, Jennifer Garner saves a dull magazine launch party by busting out the signature choreography from the greatest music video of all time. The joy on the faces of her fellow party-goers as they join in the dance speaks volumes to the true timelessness of the King of Pop’s music. (Even Gollum can't resist getting in on the fun.) From Halloween parties to wedding receptions to prison work-outs, those moves will never be forgotten.

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