The events in Song Sung Blue really happened. I was there as a fan in the '90's and it was crazy. Crazy fun, crazy entertaining and, off-stage, crazy tragic at times. The real "Lightning and Thunder's" performances were uplifting - you left singing and dancing and in a great mood. The movie brought back that time and feeling.
Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson were mesmerizing. They skillfully captured the spirit of Mike Sardina/Lightning and the still feisty Claire Sardina/Thunder. I had no idea Kate Hudson was so musically talented. The supporting cast nailed it. The director, Craig Brewer, and production team told this complicated and bittersweet story with grit, laughter and energy. I laughed. I cried. I danced in my seat. I am still unapologetically cranking Neil Diamond songs days later and I plan to for a long time (& I'm not a "boomer" but I'm old enough not to care whether someone thinks Neil Diamond music is cool or not) (spoiler - it is!)
Like real life, Song Sung Blue was heartbreaking at times. It was also joyful and inspiring. This couple experienced really high highs and really low lows.
These were "regular people" like most of us. Well... no one is quite like Lightning/Mike or Thunder/Claire... and maybe it's partly because, unlike most of us, despite all the obstacles they faced, they went all-in after their dream. They brought a lot of people joy doing what they loved and if that's not a fulfilling and beautiful life, I don't know what is.
Give this movie a chance (& check out the documentary it's based on, 2008's "Song Sung Blue" - yes, these events really happened). It's hard to explain, you just have to experience it.
