Rocketman is an epic musical fantasy about the uncensored human story of Sir Elton John’s breakthrough years. It begins with Elton John making the decision that would change his life forever, checking into a rehab center. As he shares his story in group therapy the film brings his stories to life.
If you are or ever were an Elton John fan, you will need to see this film more than once. I couldn’t agree with these words of my guest more. This musical has such depth as it tells the story of the making of Elton John from childhood through his glory and his pain. It is a very accurate (it should be, Elton was one of the producers) rendition of what it was like to find acceptance in life that was not found in his childhood but to discover that much of the fame was empty. It depicts the life of a rockstar that turns to drugs, alcohol, sex, and many other addictions. I have always been a fan of his music but never followed his life story. The film pairs his life with many of his songs making complete sense in the order of his life. The soundtrack is perfection. If I said I wasn’t moved to tears I would be lying.
Imagine growing up not being shown love, being told you will never be loved and in front of millions of people being idolized without a real connection. This was his life. Except one. His songwriter and best friend from childhood, Bernie Taupin. Living vastly different lifestyles they remain best friends never having had a fight to this day. Some might watch this and recognize that this is what unconditional love looks like.
As the credits roll there are screen split-shots showing actual photos of Elton John compared to the stills from the film. A great job in recreating history both in costume and character. The credits also deliver the best news ever, Elton has been sober for 28 years (it’s actually 30 now) and counting and finally found the love he always longed for sharing his life with his husband and co-producer, David Furnish, raising two sons together.
For those, like me, who have always wanted to see the iconic musician in concert, I am happy to report that there is still time as Elton John kicks off his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour commencing September 2019. He is expected to hit 300 cities going through 2021 as his grand finale. For more info on his tour click here.
Director: Dexter Fletcher
Producers: Elton John, David Furnish, Matthew Vaughn, David Reid, Adam Bohling
Production companies: Rocket Pictures, Marv Films
- Taron Egerton as Elton John
- Kit Connor and Matthew Illesley as younger versions of Elton
- Jamie Bell as Bernie Taupin (best friend and songwriter)
- Richard Madden as John Reid (business manager and love interest)
- Bryce Dallas Howard as Sheila Eileen (Elton’s mother)
Movie times: click here
Genre: Drama/Biography
Run Time: 2 hr, 1 min
Rating: R for language throughout, some drug use and sexual content