Introduction to a Timeless Story
A sweet portion of corn full of sadness and joy, prepared correctly, tells the remarkable true story of a Milwaukee auto mechanic and his hairdresser wife who endure difficult blows together but never let their dream die – even if it remains on life support in the most difficult times. While it may sound like Hallmark syrup, Craig Brewer’s gripping retelling of the triumphs and tribulations of a Neil Diamond tribute act is grounded in real emotion and irresistibly stirring music. Above all, it is held up by the winning performances from ideal couple Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, the latter giving her best performance since Almost Famous.
A Personal Connection to the Music
I admit I had a light touch for this film. A key childhood memory is sitting on my aunt’s living room floor – she was groovy enough to have a "feature wall" of contrast wallpaper – and playing Hot August Night Double album from start to finish while everyone else sat outside digesting barbecue. By the time I got to high school, Diamond’s music was already considered uncool, so I naturally rejected any preference for it. But decades later, his songs became a means of time travel; I was surprised that I knew almost every word.
The Story Unfolds
The film tells the story of Mike Sardina, a divorced Vietnam veteran who is celebrating his 20th anniversary of sobriety in the late ’80s when he meets Claire Stengl (Hudson) at a "Legends" performance at the Wisconsin State Fair. The program includes impersonators of Elvis, Willie Nelson, Streisand, James Brown, and Buddy Holly. Mike, performing as the self-proclaimed rock god "Lightning," retreats after a disagreement with Mark, but not before exchanging some flirty banter with Claire. Just as she’s about to play Patsy Cline, she tells him he should play Neil Diamond.
The Power of Music
Composer Scott Bomar serves as executive music producer, and song after song is a rousing hit. Of course, "Sweet Caroline" gets the royal treatment, but just as Mike insists that there’s much more to Neil Diamond than that oversaturated, catchy-as-hell hit and its sing-along chorus, the film also casts a wide net over Diamond’s extensive catalog. Some of the more memorable numbers include the romantic ballad "Play Me," the spiritual "Soolaimon," the stirring, gospel-tinged "Holly Holy," and the even more spectacular "Brother Love’s Traveling Salvation Show."
The Performances
The chemistry between Jackman and Hudson makes you fall for their characters as a couple and as a music act. Scenes that should be eye-rolling clichés end up somehow disarming. One of them is the first full rehearsal in Mike’s garage, with his long-time companions The Esquires on horns and keys and Mark on guitar, after he decided he was too old to continue impersonating Buddy Holly, who died at 22. They breeze through “Crunchy Granola Suite” with such vigor, Mike and Claire sharing vocal duties, that even the grumpy neighbor across the street dances while she waters her lawn.
Overcoming Adversity
The repeated misfortunes in these characters’ lives elicit tones of patheticness, even if some, like Rachel’s unplanned pregnancy, receive minimal airtime. But the film keeps you on board through dizzying lows and consistent highs – even through three endings where one would have been enough – mostly because the lead actors are just so damn charming. Jackman is no stranger to this kind of showman-dreamer. His exuberant personality and natural humor make him ideal for performing elements, whether he’s singing "Cracklin’ Rosie" in his underwear while practicing his Neil moves or belting out hits on stage in ’70s satin shirts with dagger collars and sequined jackets, his hair blowing in a fan’s gust of wind.
A Surprise Performance
The real surprise, however, is Hudson, who delivers a vanity-free performance that makes her completely believable as a Midwestern hairdresser and loving mother whose joy in the performance is contagious and her devastation heartbreaking. Her versions of the Patsy Cline evergreens “Walkin’ After Midnight” and “Sweet Dreams” are rich, warm, and full-bodied. She also masters Jackman note for note in wonderful performance interludes in which Mike and Claire’s love radiates out to the audience, and she soars in a solo on Diamond’s soft rock ballad "I’ve Been This Way Before."
Conclusion
Imperioli, Anderson, Stevens, and Belushi expertly lead the engaging ensemble in a film that is cloying but never sickly, even when it borders on schmaltz. Brewer’s direction is polished and straightforward, trusting in the strength of the characters and their stranger-than-fiction story, always anchored in bittersweet real-life experiences. The film is a diamond in the rough, a true gem that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired. With its talented cast, memorable music, and heartfelt story, it’s a must-see for anyone who loves music, romance, or just a good underdog story.
