About the film (courtesy of Paramount Pictures):
An epic musical fantasy about the incredible human story of Elton John’s breakthrough years. The film follows the fantastical journey of transformation from shy piano prodigy Reginald Dwight into international superstar Elton John. This inspirational story – set to Elton John’s most beloved songs and performed by star Taron Egerton – tells the universally relatable story of how a small-town boy became one of the most iconic figures in pop culture.

Director Dexter Fletcher already had a previous working relationship with Taron Egerton in Eddie the Eagle (2015) which was well received and also helped show that Egerton was not a one-hit wonder. With the capable duo teaming up again in the biopic Rocketman, their comfort level in one another’s abilities would allow them to focus on the important stuff, capturing Elton John’s quite massive persona and putting on display for all to enjoy. Having Elton John himself working closely with the team certainly does put this feature in a different light.

Rather than having to do tons of research to make sure that Rocketman isn’t lacking any key elements, they were able to gather information straight from the horse’s mouth. I believe fans will appreciate the colorful way we learn how Reginald Kenneth Dwight became one of the most talented and recognizable icons in music today as seen through the knowing eyes of the man himself.

I will not compare this biopic to last year’s Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) because they are two totally different approaches to storytelling. I will say that as important as Rami Malek was to its success, which earned him an Oscar for Best Actor, Taron Egerton is even more paramount to Rocketman. While Jamie Bell as Bernie Taupin, Richard Madden as John Reid and Bryce Dallas Howard as Elton’s mom (or mum as they say across the pond) give compelling performances in their own ways, it’s Egerton that must shoulder the entire weight of this glitzy production.

I can think of no other actor who would have been more suited to play the role of an early Elton John. His mannerisms are spot on as he gives inspired performances scene after scene. The music selections and performances are awesome…obviously. The design of the costumes are flawless…duh. The tone of the film keeps light even though it must delve into some darker areas at times. So there’s a good mixture of items to keep your attention for the full two hours.

Will Rocketman be the hit movie that everyone will be raving about? Probably not, but that’s okay. There’s enough to keep you entertained. You already know you’re going to love the music. This is a fun chronicalization the man’s life up to a certain point while taking audiences on a unique and artistic journey along the way. Top marks to Taron Egerton on his preparation, dedication and execution to bring Elton John’s story to life. You can check it out in theaters right now. Just be sure to have your music queued up for your drive home afterwards because you’re going to want to sing in your cars at the top your lungs afterwards and I won’t judge you!