Hey guys, it’s me again! Today, I’m reviewing the new Neil Diamond film Song Sung Blue. Let’s do it!
So, Song Sung Blue is directed by Craig Brewer and stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. The movie is about the Neil Diamond tribute duo Lightning (Hugh) and Thunder (Kate). They meet, and once they decide to become Neil Diamond impersonators together, they also become a couple. They experience both soaring success and heartbreaking devastation throughout their journey together. When I went to see this, I expected just a decent movie, and to my surprise… I actually really liked it!
It’s hard to consider this a biopic, because if it is one, it’s like no other. This film is also based on a 2008 documentary of the same name and a true love story from Milwaukee. They absolutely have their ups and downs as the movie goes on. The movie is basically about going after your dream, and partly about how life can get in the way of it. These aren’t super prestigious people who are hard to relate to; they feel authentic, and each actor brings their A-game.
Kate Hudson managed to snag a Golden Globe nomination, which makes me happy to see audiences being brought into impersonation culture. It feels like you’re learning about a different world that’s been there all along. Some moments are cheesy, while others are heartbreaking and really tug at your heartstrings. I really felt the love for Neil Diamond, and the music was very immersive, showing how anyone can have an inspiring story.
I heard some controversy over Lightning/Mike’s son in real life being upset because he wasn’t in the movie and calling them “monsters.” I never saw the documentary myself. I understand dramatizing certain moments, but a movie has to be entertaining at some point. Don’t listen to the critics—just trust your own experience, bring tissues, and know that Song Sung Blue is a great movie with great music. They do sing “Sweet Caroline” (bap bap ba), but there’s so much more to his music than Sweet Caroline. (You’ll get why I’m saying that if you see the movie.) Overall, great movie.
I’m gonna give Song Sung Blue a B+.
