Jackman leans into Mike's scruffy persona to create a remarkably likeable man who knows that he's a mess inside. The way he wraps his vocal cords around Diamond's belting songs is hugely entertaining. So it's unexpected that Hudson walks off with the film, delivering a thunderous performance as a steely woman whose journey is hugely involving. And the way she pours herself into the music is magical. Side characters offer colour and texture, with a particularly strong turn from the young Anderson.

This is a feel-good comedy that overflows with great music, but it's also an intensely moving drama that leaves us emotionally drained. Each scene is written, directed and played with skill to bring out underlying layers of feelings and meaning, so it's easy to identify with these thoroughly relatable people even as in their most extraordinary experiences. And while packing all of this into a two-hour movie feels a bit jarring, it's also a lovely reminder of the simple power of tenacity.

themes, language, violence

3.Nov.25

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