The Song Sung Blue Film Review: An Neil Diamond Tribute Story Receives a Heartwarming Boost of Movie Magic Courtesy of Jackman and Hudson
This film presents a remarkably odd, undeniably entertaining true-life story from the heartland of American showbusiness; an endearing hit with its uplifting tone does little to warn you for how the plot repeatedly and savagely twists similar to a precarious carnival attraction. Personally, I found my eyes closed with my jaw agape at certain key points, and was grabbing the chair ahead with both fists.
The Unbelievable True Tale
The couple Mike and Claire Sardina, terrifically played by Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, were spouses from Milwaukee who had children from previous relationships who in the 90s created a kitschy Neil Diamond tribute act called Lightning and Thunder; they grew into an underground sensation in their home state and even opened for Pearl Jam, whose guitarist Eddie Vedder good-naturedly joined them during their performance for an encore.
However, life was not easy for them, and this movie contemplates how tough it is when misfortune's bolt strikes more than once.
Adapting a Real Story
It is in fact adapted from a prior documentary film of the same title from 2008 by Greg Kohs concerning this surreal reality, a film that was extensively on the family's personal collection of home video. It’s fair to say that the documentary puts more emphasis on the delusional and absurd aspects of Mike and Claire’s life.
Yet this is not the approach taken by this movie from director Craig Brewer reimagines their tale. He, Jackman and Hudson turn the laugh-at into laugh-with. Jackman delivers a masterful performance portraying a Neil Diamond tribute artist, vocalizing in a remarkably similar manner, and appearing strikingly alike. He’s perfectly plausible as an individual not destined for in the big league but who clearly has the chops (and the pipes) to carry a show.
Standout Performances
Hudson likewise shines, doing her own singing in the role of Claire, who prior to partnering with Mike in the Neil Diamond tribute world enjoyed a successful career performing as Patsy Cline. The film depicts her powerfully singing Cline's songs, even though one particular Cline standard that this film interestingly misses out.
Actor Michael Imperioli portrays a Buddy Holly tribute artist called Mark, and Mustafa Shakir is a James Brown performer known as Sex Machine. The role of Claire’s teen daughter Rachel, and King Princess is Mike's daughter Angelina who is around the same age – and their burgeoning friendship is another underplayed aspect of the film’s likability.
The Heart of the Story
Sarcasm and mockery have been surgically removed from Mike and Claire’s heart-stoppingly eventful life experiences, and replacing them Brewer installs those attributes that the couple themselves would have recognized: the fragility and isolation of trying to make it on the fringes of the music industry, or indeed succeeding in any field and within any profession.
It is a never-say-die story and its bright hopefulness makes it a rich holiday delight.
Song Sung Blue is out on 25 December in the US and January 1st in Australia and the UK.