★★★☆
Beautifully filmed and well-acted, Rocketman showcases a talented cast and crew while paying tribute to one of the greatest artists in popular music history.
Taron Egerton gives a particularly impressive performance as Elton John - so much so that it is difficult to imagine anyone else in the role. So many aspects of Elton's character and the relationships he developed over the years shaped his career and personal journey. Taron and Director Dexter Fletcher do an excellent job of bringing these human trials to light.
Initially, the elements of music fantasy were disruptive to the narrative, but, as the film progressed, the style settled into a pleasing groove. The costumes and set pieces brought balance to what could have beed a relatively grim story.
As good as the film is, the music is what really carries the show. There has never been and probably never will be another musician that can bring someone else's lyrics to life as Elton did with Bernie Taupin. The catalog presented takes you through several decades with a confident emotional resonance.
Scenes such as the performance of Crocodile Rock at the Troubadour and the extravaganza at Dodger Stadium may not be historically accurate but, in this case it doesn't matter. These breaks in reality acknowledge that the events are interchangeable but the music and personality of Elton John connecting with the world through his songs is undeniable.