Told
in a stream of consciousness format, Rocketman
takes off as a personal biography of rock music legend, Elton John, and showcases a rich, transformative performance
by Taron Egerton (Kingsman:The Secret
Service). Director Dexter Fletcher (who finished Bohemian Rhapsody,) has an eye for recreating pop icons, and this film presents John’s life as not only
a musical fantasy, but one grounded in a gritty reality with its unflinching portrait
of his sexuality and personal demons.
Flashing
back and forth from his lonely childhood to key moments in his life, Reginald
Dwight demonstrates an ear for music and playing the piano. Renaming himself
Elton John, he exploits his musical acumen during a chance meeting with
songwriter Bernie Taupin (Jamie Bell), and so begins a remarkable run of hit
songs (and increasingly flamboyant stage presence) and worldwide fame. Yet
plagued by distant parents and questioning his sexual identity, he yearns for real love and sinks further
into a life of excess and addiction to alcohol, drugs, and destructive
relationships. At a crossroads in his life, his search for his authentic
self begins a long road to recovery and triumph.
It’s
fascinating to experience so many of John’s catalogue of classic songs, which
anchor the narrative, brought to the screen imaginatively. Egerton actually sings these himself, and it works beautifully; it’s
an Oscar worthy performance. Special mention should go to Richard Madden and
Bryce Dallas Howard in effective, supporting roles.
While
it has a more fanciful approach than a standard drama, it compares favorably to
Bohemian Rhapsody particularly in the
end where it culminates with powerful, emotional heft. It leaves you wanting a
bit more and compelled to go out and listen to all those tunes again.
***1/2
of **** stars (add ½* for Elton John fans)
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