It took me a while to finally watch this one, and I have to say that, just like with Bohemian Rhapsody, I'm disappointed I waited. This certainly would have been an amazing film to see in theaters.
Rocketman is essentially the life story of music legend Sir Elton John, with just enough of a fantastical flair to it to match that of the man himself. This film also blended the music into the story well enough that I could honestly see it as a stage production. A very expensive and extravagant stage musical, but with the proper funding, I think it could be done.
Taron Egerton steals the spotlight as the fabulous Elton John, a young artist trying to make it into the music business while experiencing all the struggles and hardships that eventually comes with celebrity. After facing heartbreak and drug abuse, leading to the collapse of his mental state, friendships, and relationships, he eventually checks himself into a rehab facility, where he recounts the entire story up to that point. This allows for the audience to believe some of the fantastical elements of the tale because we are aware of the drug effects on the narrator.
Although I've never really been through the same hardships as the film's depiction of Sir Elton, it's played out in a way that most people should be able to connect with and understand. He was used, had his heart broken, was constantly told that he would never be happy, and fell into an addictive habit that nearly drove him to death. However, he took initiative, saw that there was something that needed to change, and decided to make the change. A move that saved his life and put him back on track. A credits image states that after he left the rehab, the real John has remained sober and now lives a happy, retired life with his family.
An overall great film, and not just a cheap cash grab after the success of 2018's Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman proved to be a pleasant surprise full of great music, a compelling story, and a lot of feathers. But what else can you expect when it comes to Sir Elton John?
Rating: 5/5 Gold Records
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