It's everything Bohemian Rhapsody should have been, and then some.
A biography that manages to use its jukebox rock and roll as a vehicle for its story. A fantasy that intimately explores what a life of music, addiction, and stardom does to someone's experience of life. A musical that reworks existing songs into new and exciting forms. And a transformative performance by a leading man who doesn't need the gimmick of exaggerated prosthetics to become his subject and who sounds amazing singing the music with his own voice
The movie frames the life of Elton John within the confines of an alcoholics anonymous meeting, where he enters in full devilish regalia and proceeds to recount the tribulations of his life, including his addictions to booze, drugs, and sex. His memories make up the film, filling it and forming it, as his music is often sung in the moment, adding to the story if not telling it outright, in contexts often offstage or outside the studio. We explore his childhood and family dynamics, his break into show biz, and of course his journeys through love (none more so than fame).
It's the musical event of the year, and it's an amazing achievement. Bask in the glory of the costumes and design, celebrate the stellar performances, and jive along to the music. Summer is here, and I think it's gonna be a long, long time until we have this much fun at the movies again.
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