1. Special Shoes: Jackson wore custom-made shoes with a special heel design that featured a hidden support mechanism. These shoes allowed him to lean forward to an extreme angle without falling.
2. Hidden Wires: During the dance sequence, Jackson was suspended from wires that were strategically positioned to support him as he leaned forward. These wires were carefully concealed within his clothing and accessories, making them virtually invisible to the audience.
3. Camera Angles: The camera angles in the music video were meticulously chosen to create the illusion that Jackson was defying gravity. The camera was positioned low and close to the ground, capturing shots that accentuated the extreme lean while hiding the support mechanisms.
4. Practice: Of course, Jackson's exceptional talent and rigorous practice were essential in executing the move flawlessly. He rehearsed extensively to achieve the perfect balance, coordination, and timing required to pull off the 45-degree lean.
The combination of these elements—specially designed shoes, hidden wires, clever camera work, and Jackson's remarkable skill—created the illusion of the famous leaning dance move that became a defining moment in pop culture and a testament to Michael Jackson's artistry and innovation.