"Holding Firm: Refusal to Release"
In the world of music, few names resonate as powerfully as Elton John. Known for his extravagant costumes and a string of hit songs, John's life story is as captivating as his music. This is beautifully depicted in the biopic Rocketman, released in 2019.
The film, produced in both the UK and USA, takes viewers on a musical journey through key real-life events and challenges that shaped Elton John's life. Taron Egerton portrays Elton John, while Jamie Bell plays Bernie Taupin, his long-time lyricist collaborator.
Rocketman begins with Reginald Dwight, a mid-60s boy living in a London suburb, who is quite shy but comes alive when playing the piano. After renaming himself Elton John, he begins his rise to one of Britain's most flamboyant entertainers. His true passion, rock 'n' roll, can only be indulged after moving to the capital.
The film then delves into Elton John's personal struggles, including his complex relationship with his father, his problematic and abusive romantic relationships, and his battles with identity and addiction. Bryce Dallas Howard portrays Sheila Eileen, one of John's romantic interests, while Richard Madden acts as John Reid, his controversial manager.
Rocketman also highlights the beginning and development of the musical and songwriting partnership between Elton John and Bernie Taupin, which was crucial to his success. Steven Mackintosh plays Stanley, John's manager, and Stephen Graham is cast as Dick James, a record producer.
As Elton John's star rises, the film shows his transformation into a flamboyant and iconic stage performer, including depictions of his breakthrough hits and public persona. However, it is important to note that while Rocketman portrays these core aspects of Elton John's life, it is not a documentary but a musical drama that uses song and fantasy elements. Some events or characters are condensed or adapted to maintain narrative flow and emotional impact.
Elton John himself was involved as an executive producer, allowing the film to capture the emotional truth of his story, even if some factual details were modified. The film has a runtime of 150 minutes and is rated 12.
Despite the creative liberties taken, Rocketman provides a moving and engaging portrayal of Elton John's early life challenges—his musical genius, personal battles with identity and addiction, key relationships, and path to fame—while deliberately adjusting some historical details for storytelling purposes.
Other movies-and-tv productions delve into various aspects of entertainment beyond music, offering diverse narratives that captivate audiences. For instance, Rocketman, a biopic inspired by Elton John's life, provides a musical journey that highlights his early life challenges, personal struggles, and key relationships, fundamentally showcasing his rise to stardom in the world of music.
