Unlike the review cited below¹ I consider this biopic in terms of what we’re missing today.

Obviously Rocketman is trite depending on a sing-a-long narrative. The recurring thread is Elton in an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting coupled with flash backs. This is an authorised film with Elton’s husband being an executive producer. Elton’s promoted as a hugely talented working-class hero like Billy Elliot. This is well done. Eventually it shades into lachrymose sentimentality without actually being nauseating. All of which doesn’t give you a reason to see it.

So why see it? The sheer exuberance of Elton’s life adds zest to the inner man. Our gruesome risk averse nanny state has sucked the lifeblood out of the country. The spate of biopics about 1960s/70s superstar icons isn’t just about money, though that’s important. It’s also about the contrast that era had with our zeitgeist. That period saw overwhelming confidence even by the ‘have nots’ unlike today where fear is rampant. I enjoyed Elton’s reckless life and stupendous creativity along with his partner Bernie Taupin. The Elton shows were Shows! Great stuff and at the very least you too can sing-a-long.

1 For a very different and professional review go to https://variety.com/2019/film/reviews/rocketman-review-elton-john-1203218116/