The plot: Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, experience soaring success and devastating heartbreak in their musical journey together.
This film was Very Good.
Pros: I did get hyped up when Lightning & Thunder started singing, I thought their voices were very good. They nailed the aesthetic of this film. Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson worked as Lightning & Thunder and had great chemistry. I felt the tragedy, hardship & charm throughout this film. I did like how it posted a light on impersonator culture & the writing and acting were all top notch.
Cons: The pacing did feel rushed in moments. I was confused by what time period the film was set in. It was slow at the beginning and no Neil Diamond Cameo.
Genre: Drama, Music
Directed by Craig Brewer
Produced by John Davis, John Fox, Craig Brewer
Screenplay by Craig Brewer
Based on Song Sung Blue by Greg Kohs
Starring: Hugh Jackman; Kate Hudson; Michael Imperioli; Ella Anderson; Mustafa Shakir; Fisher Stevens & Jim Belushi.
Edited by Billy Fox
Cinematography: Amy Vincent
Music by Scott Bomar
Production companies: Davis Entertainment
Distributed by: Universal Pictures, Focus Features
Cast:
- Hugh Jackman as Mike Sardina a.k.a. “Lightning”
- Kate Hudson as Claire Sardina a.k.a. “Thunder”
- Michael Imperioli as Mark Shurilla, a Buddy Holly impersonator turned guitarist
- Ella Anderson as Rachel Cartwright, Claire’s daughter from her first marriage
- Mustafa Shakir as Sex Machine, a James Brown impersonator
- Fisher Stevens as Dave Watson
- Jim Belushi as Tom D’Amato, “Lightning and Thunder’s” manager
- King Princess as Angelina Sardina, Mike’s daughter from his first marriage
- Hudson Hensley as Dayna Cartwright, Claire’s son from her first marriage
- John Beckwith as Eddie Vedder
- Jackie Cox as Babs, a drag queen and Claire’s co-worker
- Cecelia Riddett as Grandma Stengl
- Sean Allan Krill as Buddy Holmes, a promoter
- Beth Malone as Bridget
- Jayson Warner Smith as Earl/TCB
- Erika Slezak as Frances Stengl, Claire’s mother
I highly recommend this film in Cinemas.
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Ryan Balkwill:
Resident film reviewer,
Level Best Art Cafe