Rocketman

Two weeks ago I went to the local cinema to watch “Rocketman”- a musical fantasy depicting the genuine life story of the eccentric and beloved rock sensation Elton John. I wish I could see this film again, but it is no longer running in the cinemas from my town, so I will just have to wait for it to get on DVD, because it is definitely worth watching over and over again. This biopic managed to captivate my attention because minutes after walking into the theatre it felt as if I was living in Elton John’s real life adventure. The film focuses on Elton’s arduous childhood and his difficult relationship with his parents, discovering his passions and following his dreams by taking the path to fame; a path filled with addiction, regrets, broken hearts and impressive comebacks that led him to become one of the most successful rock legends.

The film was written by Lee Hall, a British writer and producer known for screenplays, such as “Victoria & Abdul”, and his Oscar-nominated script for “Billy Elliot”. He created a warm-hearted story in which every beautifully written line easily managed to find its place.  All the great classics, such as “Crocodile Rock”, “Your Song”, “Tiny Dancer”, “Rocket Man” and “I’m Still Standing” were put together in the storyline to add an entertaining and exciting vibe to it. The new song, “(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again” written by Bernie Taupin and performed by Elton John and Taron Egerton, gave an emotional touch to the film.

The versatile Dexter Fletcher, known best for his work in “Eddie the Eagle” (also starring Taron Egerton), “Bohemian Rhapsody” and a considerable number of films in which he acted- did a stunning job directing the cast. A scene I really liked was the one where “Crocodile Rock” was performed for the first time in front of a live audience at the Troubadour nightclub. The way this scene was imagined and directed was absolutely ingenious and magical, and so was the editing. Elton wished that “Rocketman” would illustrate his life’s events as they have occurred during his nationwide tours, and this is exactly what I love about this film- it connects all of his glamorous public appearances with the excessive parties he had thrown; parties that later led him to lose control of his life.

“Rocketman” has an amazing cast. Taron Egerton makes a very convincing Elton, while Bryce Dallas Howard and Steven Mackintosh nicely portray his parents. Richard Madden- known best for his role as Robb Stark in the famous TV show “Game of Thrones”- plays the part of Elton’s manager, John Reid. A fun fact is that Reid was also the former manager of the British band Queen, and was portrayed by Aidan Gillen-also known from “Game of Thrones”- in Dexter Fletcher’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”. I have admired Taron Egerton’s talent and impressive voice ever since I heard him singing “I’m Still Standing” in the 2016 animated film “Sing”. Considering that he sang so effortlessly well in the film, Taron should definitely receive a Golden Globe, or even an Oscar nomination for his powerful portrayal of Elton John.

Combining lovely choreographies and inspiring songs with the heartbreaking life story of a developing rock icon, “Rocketman” makes an excellent musical that everyone should see. I will absolutely watch it again when I get the chance. Oh, and I expect to see an Elton-Taron duet at the Oscars!!

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