Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are teaming up for Song Sung Blue, an upcoming musical drama that tells the story of a Milwaukee couple who found local fame performing as a Neil Diamond tribute band. Directed by Craig Brewer, the film is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name and began production on October 14.
Song Sung Blue follows the real-life journey of Mike and Claire Sardina, two struggling musicians who became known as “Lightning & Thunder,” a tribute band that celebrated the music of Neil Diamond. Despite facing personal hardships, their performances struck a chord with local audiences, transforming them into beloved local icons. The film borrows its title from Diamond’s 1972 hit “Song Sung Blue,” and promises a heartfelt look at the power of music to bring hope and resilience.
Jackman, well-known for his performances in musicals like The Greatest Showman and The Music Man, will portray Mike Sardina, while Hudson steps into the role of Claire. Hudson’s recent ventures into music—she’s preparing to release her debut album Glorious—make her role all the more fitting.
The cast also includes Michael Imperioli, Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi, along with Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, and Hudson Hilbert Hensley. The mix of seasoned actors and newer faces adds an interesting dynamic to the project.
While details about the film’s specific direction remain under wraps, Song Sung Blue taps into a cultural phenomenon surrounding tribute bands and how they often serve as an emotional lifeline for their performers. At its core, the movie seems poised to explore the joy and hardships of keeping a passion alive, especially when life doesn’t go as planned.
As Song Sung Blue enters production, it joins several other anticipated films from Focus Features, but it stands out by embracing the unique and nostalgic power of Neil Diamond’s music, which remains an enduring part of American pop culture. With Jackman and Hudson leading the way, the film is likely to attract both fans of musicals and those who appreciate stories of perseverance.
No release date has been confirmed yet, but it’s a project worth keeping on your radar if you’re a fan of Jackman, Hudson, or Neil Diamond.
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