Craig Brewer's upcoming film, "Song Sung Blue," is poised to captivate audiences as a uniquely "faith-based movie," not in the traditional sense of religious drama, but rather in its fervent devotion to the musical legacy of Neil Diamond. Based on a true story, the film chronicles the lives of Mike and Claire Sarina, portrayed by Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, who transform their shared passion into a Neil Diamond tribute band named Lightning & Thunder. Set in the late '80s and '90s, the narrative explores the lives of two broken-down, middle-aged Middle Americans grappling with personal sorrows; Mike, a Vietnam veteran and recovering alcoholic, and Claire, a struggling hairdresser and single mother.

Their unlikely journey begins at a scuzzy Milwaukee casino where they initially perform as disparate impersonators. Mike, weary of novelty hits, quits on the spot, while Claire performs as Patsy Cline. Recognizing a mutual spark and a desire for something more authentic, they hatch the idea of forming a band dedicated solely to Neil Diamond's extensive repertoire. Brewer, known for his acclaimed works like “Hustle & Flow” and “Dolemite Is My Name,” directs “Song Sung Blue” with an unironic celebration of "Karaoke Culture." The film delves into the profound impulse that allows ordinary individuals to channel the essence of pop legends through performance, transforming imitation into a sublime expression of devotion.

Hugh Jackman delivers a compelling performance as Mike, who isn't merely an impersonator but a true avatar of Neil Diamond, artfully embodying the star's distinctive voice and stage presence. His musical renditions are presented as transcendent, capturing the beloved qualities of Diamond's sound. Kate Hudson, in what critics are hailing as the finest work of her career, portrays Claire with a revelatory blend of raw vulnerability and ferocious power. Her performance is being lauded as an organic inhabitation of the character, drawing comparisons to Oscar-winning portrayals of resilience by actors like Reese Witherspoon, Hilary Swank, and Frances McDormand.

As Mike and Claire fall in love and marry, their partnership extends beyond music into a deep emotional synergy. With the help of a booker, played by Jim Belushi, they embark on a circuit of Midwest casinos, gradually building a dedicated following. Their ascent culminates unexpectedly when they open for Pearl Jam in Milwaukee in the early '90s, a moment symbolizing their arrival in a broader cultural consciousness. However, their journey is soon upended by sudden tragedy that strikes Claire, testing their bond and pushing the film into a poignant exploration of healing and enduring faith, both in each other and in the transformative power of music. Mike also contends with his own physical ailments and lack of health insurance, adding another layer of adversity.

The film skillfully acknowledges the diverse spectrum of Neil Diamond fans: from those who appreciate the deep artistic merit of his lesser-known songs to the enthusiastic "bom bom bom" crowd of "Sweet Caroline" fame. "Song Sung Blue" is crafted to resonate with both, culminating in a powerful solo show at the Ritz Theater in Milwaukee where Mike's rendition of "Soolaimon" shines as a beacon of hope through darkness. With its December 25th release, the film is generating significant awards buzz, particularly for Hudson's potentially Oscar-contending performance, and is further bolstered by the strong ensemble work of Jackman, Belushi, and breakout star Ella Anderson as Claire's daughter, Rachel. Brewer’s direction, rooted in authentic allyship and a nuanced understanding of marginalized voices, ensures the film's critical and emotional resonance.