Rocketman Review: Elton John Biopic a Magical Rock Opera
Plot Synopsis courtesy of IMBd.com: “A musical fantasy about the fantastical human story of Elton John’s breakthrough years.”
Directed by: Dexter Fletcher (Eddie the Eagle)
Starring: Taron Egerton (Kingsman: The Secret Service), Jamie Bell (Billy Elliot), and Richard Madden (Game of Thrones)
Rocketman is rated R.
Photo courtesy of Paramount Pictures
It’s hard to imagine it, but prior to being named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, winning multiple Grammy Awards, a Tony Award, an Academy Award and being knighted by Queen Elizabeth II of England, Elton John was once a very shy and reserved child. A musical genius from an early age, Elton John eventually partnered up with lyricist Bernie Taupin, and the duo rode their collective talents to international renown. Elton John’s glamorous stage costumes and energy have made him an iconic performer, and one of the most influential musicians in recent history.
Produced in part by Elton John himself, Rocketman takes place for the most part between 1969-1975 and highlights the relationship between Elton and Bernie, as well as Elton’s struggles with drug and alcohol addiction. The release of Rocketman comes notably on the heels of 2018’s Bohemian Rhapsody, the Queen biopic that eventually won four Academy Awards. Coincidentally, Rocketman’s director, Dexter Fletcher, took over as the director of Bohemian Rhapsody after it’s previous director was fired for allegations of misconduct.
Rocketman in large part shares the same formula with Bohemian Rhapsody and a plethora of other musical biopics, where each star’s rise to fame is followed by an inevitable fallout (insert: drugs, infidelity, financial issues, etc.), and ultimately redemption. It’s a template that is probably accurate, but often feels derivative nonetheless. Fletcher manages to distinguish Rocketman from its contemporaries by integrating Elton John’s greatest hits into the film in fantastically clever ways. From recreated live performances of “Crocodile Rock” and “Rocket Man” to a spontaneous, Broadway-style rendition of “Saturday Night’s Alright (For Fighting),” each song feels uniquely generic to its place in the film.
The biggest kick I got out of Rocketman was the collective effort that brought the musician to life. While Taron Egerton deserves every bit of praise for his performance as an actor (and a surprisingly talented singer), I would like to specifically recognize the work of costume designer Julian Day, as well as the entire costume and make-up team. Throughout the various performances and montages, Elton wears his way through literally dozens of flamboyantly outlandish getups, all of which appear painstakingly detailed and accurate. The blend of fantasy elements is a perfect compliment to Elton’s unique sense of style and personality.
Rather than focus on simply reenacting classic performances and hit songs, Rocketman offers a deeper dive into the complexities of Elton John’s life, including his difficult relationships with family and with himself. Although his parents seem almost cartoonishly pernicious, Elton’s desire to be accepted and loved by them is heart-wrenching. The film also focuses heavily on Elton John’s homosexuality and is a thoughtful look at what it means to find meaningful and satisfying love.
At times Rocketman feels like a chance for Elton John to exorcise some of his past demons in a public group therapy session, but it does so with such a bold sense of pride that I can hardly fault the film for it. The chemistry between Taron Egerton and Jamie Bell captures the tender relationship of the musical collaborators who have become friends for life. The film is carried by the sentiments of a man adored by millions, who is still trying to love himself. Rocketman is an absolute must-see, especially for fans of Elton John’s music, and I think it’s gonna be a long, long time until we see a biopic this delightfully inventive again.
Reel Rating: 8/10
Rocketman is now playing in cinemas.
