BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — One of the biggest problems with recent biopics is that the intent is to show what it means to dream big. In the case of both the Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan examinations into their lives, the dream became so big that instead of identifying with the journey, the audience is asked to sit and marvel.
“Song Sung Blue” is one of the purest forms of biopics to come along in decades. The film opening Christmas Day has Hugh Jackman taking on the role of a big-hearted dreamer. The film doesn’t end with some massive music contract or the crown of musical legend. “Song Sung Blue” is performed for the working man who measures success in paying the bills and not gold records.
The film is based on the true story of a down-on-his-luck musician, Mike Sardina, who finds success when he forms a Neil Diamond experience tribute band. It is made very clear he is not a Neil Diamond impersonator but wants to recreate the happiness people feel when they hear songs like “Cracklin’ Rosie” or “Sweet Carolina.”…