Song Sung Blue: a tribute to Neil Diamond’s legacy
The musical biopic Song Sung Blue, inspired by the 2008 documentary about Mike Sardina, a Neil Diamond tribute singer, has gained attention following Sardina’s unexpected death just as filmmaker Greg Kohs completed the film, reports BritPanorama.
Filmed over eight years, the documentary focused on Sardina and his wife, Claire, who were part of the band Lightning & Thunder. Sardina’s sudden death from a head injury during the final stages of editing infused the project with an emotional weight that propelled it onto the festival circuit. The film’s tragic conclusion has led to the release of this feature film 17 years later.
While Sardina’s health issues are foreshadowed throughout, the film’s strength lies in its portrayal of a love story rather than a sentiment-heavy narrative. The best moments in Song Sung Blue occur when it highlights the relationship between Mike, played by Hugh Jackman, a car mechanic and passionate performer, and Claire, portrayed by Kate Hudson, at an impersonators gig. This dynamic sets the stage for their journey as performers.
The film begins with engaging chemistry as Mike and Claire navigate early romance and eventual success, booking gigs across Wisconsin. Their rise culminates in an opening act for Pearl Jam, showcasing their popularity as Lightning & Thunder.
Jackman’s portrayal of Mike is charismatic, though at times he appears more as himself than the character. In contrast, Hudson delivers a nuanced performance that has earned her a Golden Globe nomination, showcasing a complexity in Claire that adds depth beyond previous roles. Claire’s journey takes a darker turn following a tragic car accident that leads to the loss of her foot, challenging her resolve and ultimately reshaping her career.
Despite Claire’s struggles, Hudson’s performance embodies resilience. A poignant scene illustrates their relationship’s strength following the accident, marking a moment of sincere connection that resonates deeply.
Both Jackman and Hudson shine musically, bringing vitality to their performances of iconic tracks including “Sweet Caroline.” Under the direction of Craig Brewer, known for his work on Hustle and Flow, the film captures the essence of musical joy, albeit sometimes falling into the familiar narrative traps of biopics.
While it occasionally adopts a plodding pace through highs and lows typical of the genre, the core relationship remains authentic, making Song Sung Blue a delightful experience filled with genuine emotion.
