Rocketman review

Everyone knows Elton John. His songs are revolutionary and his costume choice extremely over the top and camp. But I don't think many know the real Elton. Born Reginald Dwight a young shy boy from England whose life isn't exactly typical for a child. His father is always away and even when he does come home he shows little to no attention for his son. His mother is always around but too doesn't show much interest for her son. His whole life changes however when he discovers his talents for the piano and from there his life gets turned upside down into a rollercoaster of sex, drugs, drink and everything else in between. With Rocketman and given how it is a musical biopic you're guaranteed 4 things. The rise of the star, the major success of the star, the downfall period and finally the rise back to the top. It's a pretty cliche formula by this point as we've seen it in Bohemian Rhapsody, Ray and others. That is however not to say that it's a bad formula because it isn't. Especially when the starring cast perform extremely well throughout which is what happens here. 

Starring Taron Egerton as Elton John he is perfectly cast here. He is timid and shy but at the same time flamboyant and over the top. In fact the more the movie goes on the more he begins to look like Elton John himself which was incredibly interesting. He is the stand out here as you'd expect but that doesn't mean his co cast are bad because they are also up to the task. Jamie Bell, Richard Madden and Bryce Dallas Howard are all brilliant here as life throws it's many ups and downs at Elton John. Rocketman is also one not to shy away from Elton's drug, drink and sex addiction. It plays a pretty big part as his life quickly spirals down and out of control just as his star rises and rises. Also have to mention how incredible the musical scenes are here as they are scattered throughout. They are really impressive and only add to the story and life of Elton John. Some upbeat and joyous while others saddening and mood destroying. It's all fascinating to watch truly. 

Rocketman follows the usual cliche musical biopic formula like I've mentioned but don't let that decide if you watch this or not. Taron Egerton's performance is worth the admission alone and while it's not perfect it is thoroughly enjoyable and fascinating throughout. The life of Elton John is spectacular, as for Reginald Dwight he too has lived a life full of many ups and downs. By the time it all comes to a close he is still very much standing indeed!

★★★★