"Rocketman" Movie Review

Bohemian Rhapsody opened the doors for biopics taking bigger risks. The film was praised for its consistency in pushing the envelope and not shying away from the grittier parts of Mercury's life. One year later, the brilliant Rocketman releases, pushing boundaries even further and testing new waters that have never been swam in before.

Rocketman chronicles the life of Elton John from his childhood through his rise and fall to his return to greatness. While you may be thinking that this film is just another biopic, a predictable rise-and-fall story. You would be wrong. Even if you know Elton's life inside and out, Rocketman will still have you crying, cheering, and singing along. The approach to the story is something I've never seen before anywhere. Yes, it was a biopic but it also included musical numbers with dance choreography and everything. The approach was unusual but then again Elton has always been an unusual guy. The film was a beautiful tribute that did Elton justice all the while raising the bar for musicals of every kind. Director Dexter Fletcher and writer Lee Hall accomplished something magically captivating.

Taron Egerton was perfection. From his look to training his lips to make the tight smile just like Elton to all the vocal work, Taron went above and beyond for the role. It seems that the man was born to play Elton. Huge applause for Bryce Dallas Howard for being able to pull off a convincing England accent. She portrayed Sheila, Elton's mother, so she had a pretty major part. Her vindictive intensity made us feel sorry for Elton from the start and that sympathy only grew throughout the film.

In conclusion, I apologize that this review is so short but there's really not much for me to say besides the fact that this film is fantastic. The music, the costumes, the direction...everything was nailed perfectly. I hope Elton is proud of this film because I sure am. I give Rocketman a 4 out of 4.