Music biopics often fail to individualize themselves, with films like Bohemian Rhapsody and Elvis playing out like concert films rather than focusing on what makes the singers so special. Every once in a while, films like Love & Mercy and Straight Outta Compton come along and bring a subversive take to the subgenre, but studios tend to stick to the same familiar structure. Song Sung Blue aims to differ from the average music biopic by showing how the artist’s music helped build relationships and inspired others to pursue their dreams.

The film follows Mike and Claire, played by Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, as two singers who cover other people’s songs for a living. Frustrated by their failure to achieve their dreams, the two co-founded a Neil Diamond tribute band, calling themselves Lightning and Thunder. After finding success in a short span, the band is suddenly struck by an accident that halts their rise to popularity and forces them into a hiatus. The accident also strains Mike and Claire’s relationship, leaving them wondering whether they will ever recover.

Those who are fans of Neil Diamond will likely enjoy what Song Sung Blue has to offer, as the film is littered with concert sequences surrounding the beloved singer’s catalogue. Hugh Jackman particularly leads a slew of musical set pieces, busting out his guitar and vocals every chance he gets. The music is expertly integrated into the film, showcasing Diamond’s array of hits while conveying the film’s story in subtle, yet effective ways. Whether it’s “Sweet Caroline” expressing the peaks of Mike and Claire’s singing career or “Soolaimon” representing the band’s risky nature, the music could not have been incorporated in the film better.

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are revelations as Mike and Claire. Not only do the two have excellent chemistry, but their singing performances are astounding. Having the two use their actual voices to perform the Neil Diamond songs works wonders for the film, fully bringing the characters to life in ways that other music biopics fail to do. The two are also delivering charged, dramatic performances, with Hudson’s character in particular being put through the wringer after experiencing a life-altering accident. The way she conveyed pain and mental absence made for what is easily her strongest work in years. Jackman plays off Hudson’s pain beautifully, attempting to take charge of their situation but struggling to do what’s right. Whether the two are having a small conversation or belting out Neil Diamond songs, they are continually operating at a high.

While the concert sequences are always entertaining, it’s the family drama that truly shines. Seeing the highs and lows of Claire and Mike’s relationship was always engrossing, whether they were screaming at each other or embracing. No matter how the two acted toward one another, there was never a moment when you were rooting against them. The film also touched upon other relationships with their children. With Claire having two children before meeting and marrying Mike, the children struggled to build a relationship with their new stepfather. As the film progresses, however, their relationship grows into strengths they never anticipated, with Mike’s relationship with step-daughter Rachel, played wonderfully by Ella Anderson, particularly striking strong emotional cords.

While the film’s exploration of themes such as fame, addiction, and trauma makes for an engaging experience, it doesn’t delve into them as deeply as it should. Instead of having a signature focus, the film falls into the trap of other music biopics by acting as a timeline of the characters. Each aspect of their lives is depicted in brief moments, with many pivotal scenes blurring for the characters. Because of this, the movie is far less emotional than it should’ve been. While Hudson and Jackman lend weight to a plethora of sequences, the film constantly rushes to the next part of the story, leaving many scenes weightless.

The film also has its hokey moments, as one would expect in a musical, but there are times when the corny moments seem too far removed from realism, parodizing itself. Jim Belushi’s portrayal of Tom D’Amato falls under this category, with his attempts at comedy making his character come across as a Naked Gun-type spoof. Although the film has its fair share of grounded moments, some feel too far removed from reality, especially in the opening moments.

Despite some mishaps, Song Sung Blue still has plenty of heartfelt, joyful moments that set it apart from the slew of music biopics that are released yearly. With two incredible lead performances deserving of Oscar consideration and plenty of fun concert sequences, this Christmas release is the perfect movie to watch with your parents. It may not be mindblowing in any capacity, but it is more than worthy of the theatrical experience.

Song Sung Blue will be released nationwide on December 25.

Rating: 6/10

Oscar Prospects:

Best Actress