Song Sung Blue (2025)

I was never a huge Neil Diamond fan (probably due to my limited interests) but I can’t deny that the man is insanely talented and I always enjoy listening to him whenever he’s on the radio. However, I am a fan of Hugh Jackman and I was very much looking forward to seeing what he and Kate Hudson bring to the big screen when they sing Neil Diamond’s songs in Song Sung Blue. It hasn’t been easy for me to get back to the theater after being so busy. But, I’m thankful I was able to make the time because no matter what film I watch in the cinema, I’m always reminded just how much I love to do that when I get the chance. Another reason I love going to the theater is because I always enjoy having another film to write about, and this particular film is one that I was very much looking forward to reviewing. I don’t think I would call it the best film I’ve seen all year but I can definitely see it getting a nomination or two because Jackman and Hudson crushed this film. I have more to add so let’s talk about the beauty of emotional simplicity.

     The movie follows the true story of Mike and Claire Sardina (Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson), a couple who form a joyful Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning & Thunder and chase their dreams through music and performance. As their bond deepens and their career rises from dive bars to local fame, life throws unexpected personal and professional challenges their way. Just to be clear, I went into this film completely blind and knowing absolutely nothing about the story or what these two went through, so I’m not lying when I say that I felt like I could jump right out of my seat when the surprises came. Not only that, they also toyed with my emotions as well, so I found myself with a little sniffle or two. I’ve made it pretty transparent numerous times that I’m not an emotional guy when it comes to certain things, but one thing’s for damn sure, movies make me emotional. That and some other things, I mean my personality’s not totally dry. The rest of the cast did a top notch job as well, such as Ella Anderson, Hudson Hensley, King Princess, Michael Imperioli, Fisher Stevens, Jim Belushi, and Mustafa Shakir. Everyone played their part to perfection and writer and director Craig Brewer did a hell of a job with this one. This movie’s actually based on the documentary of the same name by Greg Kohs, whose film followed the real-life Milwaukee husband and wife singing duo for years. As I said before, I was never a huge fan of Neil Diamond. I think the one song I know the best would obviously have to be “Sweet Caroline.” I'm sure everyone’s probably heard that song at least once in their life. But thanks to this movie, now I want to listen to more of Diamond’s music, because again, he’s freaking talented and I can see myself becoming more of a fan after this.

     I may be a slacker when it comes to going to the movies at times but I’m pretty glad I got to see this film when I did. This also made me realize that I have a hell of a lot more films to catch up on. Overall, I would have to give this a 9 out of 10. If you’re a fan of Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson, or if you want to witness an emotional yet heartfelt journey, then I’d definitely recommend checking this film out. A love letter to music and the memories it carries.