Song Sung Blue

This highly entertaining and unique musical story gives both Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson the opportunity to shine in complex character roles. While the theme, script, and direction occasionally feel a bit cheesy, the film ultimately delivers an authentic sense of realism as it explores the struggles of this family and their triumphant connection to music. (Your kids may also become Neil Diamond fans and you will probably find yourself pulling up his greatest hits on you Apple Music account on the drive home from theater.)

The director weaves in several interesting musical and historical elements in this biopic centered on a Neil Diamond impersonator. There is a fair amount of tragedy, a strong dose of well-crafted singing, and a genuine heart at the center of the film-one that has already earned Kate Hudson a Golden Globe nomination.

Somewhat surprisingly, Hudson often outshines Hugh Jackman, which is no small feat. Jackman remains authentic and committed in his singing, though his vocal range isn't as broad as Neil Diamond's, nor as strong as it was in The Greatest Showman. His performance here is more reminiscent of Les Misérables, reaffirming his status as an incredibly versatile singer-actor who brings depth and humanity to the role.

Glad to see this in the theater where the sound and singing come alive fully.

From alcoholic baseball fans who won't stop singing "Sweet Caroline" even when you tell them to for just one inning to that old guy in your building who still plays and quietly weeps to his cherished vinyl of "The Jazz Singer," except for "Saving Silverman" and that part you generally skip in "The Last Waltz" this is the ultimate film for Neil Diamond fans. As Milwaukee Neil devotee Mike, Hugh Jackman trades his Logan lamb chops for that amazing Neil hairdo you usually only see on Mexican detention officers to sing Diamond's hits with a true showman's devotion; his maniacal, Wolvie-like intensity just makes one wish that proposed 'Klaus Kinski as Wayne Newton' biopic had gotten off the ground. And Kate Hudson with her usual 'entitled python about to devour a litter of kittens' charm just shines as his fellow devotee and wife Claire. They truly are Lightning and Thunder, and they got the way to move me. This is going to be the monster hit of the holidays, and they come to America (only to be shipped right back) for "Song Sung Blue."

A man, Lightning, and a woman, Thunder, find love and a chance at their dreams in together creating a tribute "experience" to Neil Diamond. They are working class people--and I expect there to be a wink by the filmmakers, a bit of condescension, "isn't this goofy?" tone. There is NO SUCH THING. This is a fun and uplifting and sincere and dramatic and refreshing film. Both Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson have tremendous voices and stage presence galore. Everybody else is great, too. Writer/director Craig Brewer is to be congratulated for turning his vision into great cinema. Great? Great!!!

I watched this film Tonight at a preview and was really surprised at how excellent it is. The perfect film for the holidays. The singing is 1st rate. I sang along with every song. Just go watch and enjoy a great story. Thsnk you Hugh Jackman and Jennifer Hudson for bringing these people and their story to life.

Much better than your typical "based on a true story" movie. Kate Hudson really delivers an incredible performance adding a palpable extra dimension to her character on screen. Well balanced story telling, character development and a great cast quickly get you engrossed in the story and wishing for more.