A Feel-Good Triumph for the New Year
If you’re searching for the perfect film to usher in 2026, look no further than Song Sung Blue, arriving in cinemas on New Year’s Day. A delightful blend of nostalgia, music, humour and heart, it pairs Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson in two of their most charming performances in years – all set against the irresistible backdrop of Neil Diamond’s golden songbook.
Crucially, Song Sung Blue isn’t another sweeping celebrity biopic. Instead, it draws inspiration from the real Milwaukee couple behind the tribute duo Lightning & Thunder: Mike and Claire Sardina. Two musicians whose lives have taken unexpected turns, they find themselves at a crossroads – until their shared love of music and, of course, Neil Diamond, sparks something “huge”. As the synopsis puts it: “Based on a true story, two down-on-their-luck musicians form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band, proving it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams.”
That spirit is echoed wholeheartedly by the cast. Hugh Jackman, who brings humour, warmth and musical charisma to his role, describes the experience of watching it with an audience: “I have to tell you, having seen Song Sung Blue in a theatre with an audience, it’s a movie that people are going to want to take their entire families to. And you’re going to want the big-screen experience. People cheer, they sing, they clap, they cry, they laugh – it’s everything you want.”
Director Craig Brewer speaks just as passionately about the heart of the story, explaining why it resonates so deeply: “We root for underdogs because their struggle is our song. We need to see real people triumph over adversity – not just superheroes in capes. I need to believe, with all the problems we face in this country, that the American Dream is still possible. I need to believe in Lightning & Thunder. I hope you do, too.”
Hugh Jackman delivers a performance filled with tenderness and charm. Kate Hudson, meanwhile, is luminous. Her blend of sparkle, sharp humour and honesty makes her character instantly compelling, evoking echoes of Almost Famous while offering something more mature and soulful.
At its core, Song Sung Blue is a film about rediscovering joy and purpose and expecting the unexpected. Mike and Claire are ordinary people trying to rebuild their lives, navigating parenthood, bills, addictions and the weight of past mistakes. Yet when a dream opportunity draws them together, it sets off a journey filled with laughter, mishaps and genuine emotional renewal. The film never slips into sentimentality; instead, it stays warm and gritty throughout. And of course, Neil Diamond’s music ties everything together – from Sweet Caroline, Holly Holy to Cracklin’ Rosie. Add in glittering costumes, warm cinematography and just the right hint of controlled chaos, and the film becomes a feast for music lovers and romantics alike.
Song Sung Blue is the perfect New Year’s Day film – a reminder that life’s best surprises can happen long after we expect them. If you watch just one feel-good movie to welcome 2026, make it this one.
Song Sung Blue is in cinemas New Years Day 2026