The newly released trailer for Song Sung Blue, featuring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, highlights the journey of a determined Neil Diamond tribute band striving for success. Set to premiere on December 25, this Christmas movie follows the story of Milwaukee couple Mike and Claire Sardina as they rise from struggling musicians to celebrated performers, capturing the spirit of perseverance and love. The film’s heartening narrative centers on the formation and growth of their band, Lightning & Thunder, and emphasizes the emotional trials they face along the way.
The Story Behind Lightning & Thunder’s Rise
In the nearly three-minute trailer, Jackman appears as Mike Sardina, introducing himself with candid humility:
“I’m not a songwriter, I’m not a sex symbol, but I am an entertainer,”
Mike admits early on. Kate Hudson’s Claire reflects her ambitions plainly, revealing,
“I don’t wanna be a hairdresser. I wanna sing. I wanna dance. I wanna be able to say, ‘Look at me, I made it.’”
Their candid declarations set the tone for a film that explores hard work and dreams.
Hudson’s character is shown performing Neil Diamond’s iconic song Sweet Caroline, dressed in a fringed western outfit. Jackman teasingly asks if she is impersonating Loretta Lynn, to which Claire humorously clarifies, “Patsy Cline,” before joking that with a slightly different look, she could be Dolly Parton:
[If] my boobs were just a bit bigger I could be Dolly [Parton].
This playful exchange emphasizes their close bond and budding romance as they come together to front Lightning & Thunder.
From Small Venues to Big Dreams
The film captures the early days of their band, with some skepticism from fellow performers about the concept of a Neil Diamond-focused show. Jackman’s character pushes back on these doubts, clarifying that they are offering not just a tribute but an authentic “Neil Diamond experience.” Success follows, as they begin playing sold-out shows and eventually land an opportunity to open for the legendary band Pearl Jam. When Mike Sardina learns about this booking, he questions, “what’s a Pearl Jam?”—a moment highlighting his naive charm. He then states with a grin,
“I guess we’re opening for Pearl Jam,”
just before the story takes a dramatic turn.
Overcoming Tragedy and Coming Back Stronger
The trailer also hints at a critical incident when Hudson’s character is struck by a runaway car, leaving her wheelchair-bound and fearful about their future. Reflecting on their hardship, she says, “we were so close.” The band’s support becomes crucial as they rally around the couple, encouraging a return to performing and rebuilding from the ground up. This resilience underscores the film’s hopeful message about overcoming adversity and the power of community.
Supporting Cast and Film Details
Alongside Jackman and Hudson, the movie features Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, musician King Princess in her acting debut, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi. Written and directed by Craig Brewer, Song Sung Blue is inspired by the 2008 documentary that told the true story of the Milwaukee duo Mike and Claire Sardina, lending an authentic and heartfelt foundation to the fictionalized retelling.
Anticipation Builds as the Release Date Nears
The film’s December release positions it as a meaningful holiday story celebrating determination and love set to resonate with audiences seeking uplifting entertainment. For those following Hugh Jackman’s diverse career, Song Sung Blue offers another glimpse of his talent through a role combining music, romance, and personal growth. With its mix of humor, drama, and real-life inspiration, this movie is poised to be a standout seasonal film that highlights the true spirit behind the power of song and togetherness.
