Hugh Jackman & Kate Hudson On Emotional Journey In Song Sung Blue Biopic

by

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson powerfully portray Mike and Claire Sardina’s emotional story in Song Sung Blue, and both actors found the experience deeply impactful. The film, directed by Craig Brewer (known for Dolemite Is My Name), is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name.

I just finished watching Song Sung Blue, and it’s a really moving film. It stars Hugh Jackman and Uma Thurman as Mike and Claire, who are this fantastic Neil Diamond tribute duo called Lightning & Thunder. They’ve been touring for ten years when Claire is tragically hit by a car, and loses her leg. The movie then follows them as they try to rebuild their lives – Mike unfortunately starts relying on alcohol, and Claire really has to dig deep and find strength to deal with everything, both emotionally and physically. It’s a tough watch, but beautifully done.

After premiering at the AFI Film Festival and releasing in theaters on Christmas Day, Song Sung Blue has received mostly positive reviews, especially highlighting the performances of Hugh Jackman and Jennifer Hudson. However, audiences loved the film even more, giving it a 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes – the highest score yet for the stars and the director.

Before Song Sung Blue hits theaters, Liam Crowley from ScreenRant spoke with Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson, and Craig Brewer about the film. Jackman shared that he’s watched the movie more times than any other he’s been in, and he really loved how it turned out.

Hugh Jackman was really struck by something the person said at the end – that we’re all just trying our best, and should focus on being grateful and supporting each other. It reminded Jackman that no one is perfect, and we should all just do our best and be there for one another. He found it to be a really simple, but powerful message.

Hudson admitted that while it’s simple to say you should always try your best and appreciate life, it’s actually difficult for most people to achieve. Jackman agreed, adding that a key part of the struggle is needing to be understanding – both towards others and yourself. The Oscar nominee even confessed to being self-critical, and realized after reflecting on the song ‘Song Sung Blue’ that he needs to practice more kindness.

Hudson shared that watching Claire’s recovery – from her accident to now confidently walking and performing – showed her that Claire is always pushing herself to improve and overcome challenges. Hudson also remembered meeting Claire and being inspired by her positive outlook, which carried her through making the movie and continues to guide her life.

I’ll never forget meeting Claire. She was tapping her leg and immediately said someone had saved her life. That just felt like Claire to me – she always focuses on the positive. She doesn’t dwell on negativity, but instead highlights everything that’s helped her grow and move forward, and she truly champions optimism.

Song Sung Blue Is More Than An Average Music Biopic

ScreenRant mentioned that the song “Song Sung Blue” is played to mark Mike’s anniversary of being sober, and asked if we each have a song we play for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.

When I think of a special song, Earth, Wind & Fire’s ‘Do You Remember’ immediately comes to mind. Every September 21st, a group of my friends and I get together, and we play that song instead of ‘Happy Birthday.’ Whenever we hear it—which is often at weddings or other events—we record it and share the recording with each other. It’s become our little tradition and a meaningful connection for us.

Kate Hudson: That’s cute. I only have songs that are going-out songs.

Hugh Jackman: What’s on that playlist?

Kate Hudson said that when she was younger, the band Pixies, specifically their song “Where Is My Mind?”, was the song for her and her friends. They loved playing it when they went out, and it made them feel really cool.

ScreenRant asked about the film Song Sung Blue and the real-life couple, Mike and Claire, it’s based on. They wanted to know how the filmmaker discovered their story and what inspired them to turn what began as a documentary into a full-length movie.

I first saw the film at a smaller festival called Indie Memphis. There are so many movies made that never get wide release – they often premiere at these regional festivals instead of the big ones. I always encourage people to attend – it’s a fun experience, and it’s a great way to support independent filmmakers. You never know where you’ll discover the next big talent, like Darren Aronofsky or Kevin Smith. That’s where I found “Song Sung Blue,” a short documentary by Greg Kohs. I expected a lighthearted film about a Neil Diamond tribute band, but it turned into something much more. It told the story of a couple facing incredible hardships, yet still pursuing their dream and their love of music. It was a surprisingly moving and relatable story, and it sparked my interest without requiring me to make a full-blown Neil Diamond biopic.

Hugh Jackman is a fantastic lead, and having seen The Music Man – my first Broadway musical – I’ve always felt he sets a high standard when performing. He just radiates happiness whenever he’s involved in a musical. What was it like on set between takes? And what unique qualities did he bring to the performance that someone without his musical background couldn’t?

Hugh Jackman genuinely loves performing. We practically had to pry him off the set – there were moments we filmed the extras instead of him, and could have sent him home, but he just wanted to keep going. He gives 100% whether he’s performing for three people or a crowd of three thousand, and everyone ends up singing along with his rendition of “New York, New York.” It’s surprising to some, because many people only know him as Wolverine and are amazed to see this other side of his personality.

Read More

2026-01-03 00:02