Rocketman
3/4
Starring: Taron Edgerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden, Bryce Dallas Howard, Steven Mackintosh, Gemma Jones
Rated R for Language Throughout, Some Drug Use and Sexual Content
It is probably ironic that the biggest problem with a biopic of the famously colorful performer Elton John is that it lacks energy. Not that it doesn't try; the film is wall to wall music and there's lots of dancing and special effects (most of which are gimmicky). It's just that it doesn't come across. What should be a toe-tapping two hours of gaudy glitz and glam feels muted. Not what you'd expect from a guy whose over-the-top stage antics made him a star.
Even as a toddler, Reggie (Matthew Illesley/Kit Connor) had a gift for music. Unfortunately for him, the only one who believed in his talent was his grandmother Ivy (Jones). His mother Sheila (Howard) was too busy dealing out passive-aggressive hate to her husband Stanley (Mackintosh), while Stanley is so reserved that he couldn't show any affection or encouragement to his son. Nevertheless, Reggie perseveres, and soon he's a hit on the underground music scene. Soon he comes to the attention of music producer Dick James (Stephen Graham), who pairs him up with songwriter Bernie Taupin (Bell). It isn't long before Elton John's career explodes and he becomes a worldwide sensation. But his personal demons have thrown his life into a downward spiral.
Musicals rarely have deep stories or strong characterizations. Such things are sacrificed to make way for the singing and dancing. But there are so many here that it makes the plot points and relationships occasionally feel contrived and superficial. There are moments of real power here, particularly in the second half, but it's tougher to get into the story than it should be. The first half is biopic 101, but once the film ventures into darker material, it gains some much needed energy and pathos.
Taron Edgerton is an up-and-coming British star who, for the most part, has kept himself out of the public eye. Despite starring in the "Kingsman" movies and the Robin Hood reboot (which no one saw), Edgerton isn't a known name. But he throws himself into the role and hits it out of the park. He sings, he dances, and he has little trouble navigating the pain that is Elton's personal life, whether it be the toxic relationship with his parents or the poisonous relationship with a new business manager and lover. The always welcome Jamie Bell is in fine form as Bernie Taupin, Elton's songwriting partner and best friend. He's a pillar of strength and stability, and when he's on screen, we feel his warmth and love. Bryce Dallas Howard, Steven Mackintosh and Richard Madden all have zero trouble playing truly loathsome people.
What "Rocketman" doesn't have is life. Elton John built a career on being a force of nature, but that doesn't translate in the film. Maybe that wasn't director Dexter Fletcher's goal. Perhaps in trying to portray "the man behind the icon" he made a conscious decision to make the film more grounded. Whatever the case, the film is difficult to get sucked into. It all just bleeds together, particularly in the first hour.
Still, there are enough strong moments that make it worth seeking out. Especially on Blu Ray.
Starring: Taron Edgerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden, Bryce Dallas Howard, Steven Mackintosh, Gemma Jones
Rated R for Language Throughout, Some Drug Use and Sexual Content
It is probably ironic that the biggest problem with a biopic of the famously colorful performer Elton John is that it lacks energy. Not that it doesn't try; the film is wall to wall music and there's lots of dancing and special effects (most of which are gimmicky). It's just that it doesn't come across. What should be a toe-tapping two hours of gaudy glitz and glam feels muted. Not what you'd expect from a guy whose over-the-top stage antics made him a star.
Even as a toddler, Reggie (Matthew Illesley/Kit Connor) had a gift for music. Unfortunately for him, the only one who believed in his talent was his grandmother Ivy (Jones). His mother Sheila (Howard) was too busy dealing out passive-aggressive hate to her husband Stanley (Mackintosh), while Stanley is so reserved that he couldn't show any affection or encouragement to his son. Nevertheless, Reggie perseveres, and soon he's a hit on the underground music scene. Soon he comes to the attention of music producer Dick James (Stephen Graham), who pairs him up with songwriter Bernie Taupin (Bell). It isn't long before Elton John's career explodes and he becomes a worldwide sensation. But his personal demons have thrown his life into a downward spiral.
Musicals rarely have deep stories or strong characterizations. Such things are sacrificed to make way for the singing and dancing. But there are so many here that it makes the plot points and relationships occasionally feel contrived and superficial. There are moments of real power here, particularly in the second half, but it's tougher to get into the story than it should be. The first half is biopic 101, but once the film ventures into darker material, it gains some much needed energy and pathos.
Taron Edgerton is an up-and-coming British star who, for the most part, has kept himself out of the public eye. Despite starring in the "Kingsman" movies and the Robin Hood reboot (which no one saw), Edgerton isn't a known name. But he throws himself into the role and hits it out of the park. He sings, he dances, and he has little trouble navigating the pain that is Elton's personal life, whether it be the toxic relationship with his parents or the poisonous relationship with a new business manager and lover. The always welcome Jamie Bell is in fine form as Bernie Taupin, Elton's songwriting partner and best friend. He's a pillar of strength and stability, and when he's on screen, we feel his warmth and love. Bryce Dallas Howard, Steven Mackintosh and Richard Madden all have zero trouble playing truly loathsome people.
What "Rocketman" doesn't have is life. Elton John built a career on being a force of nature, but that doesn't translate in the film. Maybe that wasn't director Dexter Fletcher's goal. Perhaps in trying to portray "the man behind the icon" he made a conscious decision to make the film more grounded. Whatever the case, the film is difficult to get sucked into. It all just bleeds together, particularly in the first hour.
Still, there are enough strong moments that make it worth seeking out. Especially on Blu Ray.
Comments
Post a Comment