SONG SUNG BLUE

There are still those rare, special moments in life — and they usually arrive when we least expect them. I experienced one of those moments at the premiere of a film whose meaning, and whose title song, I could not have anticipated would resonate so deeply with me in the weeks that followed. Song Sung Blue is a beautiful film that gently pushes back against the coldness of the world, reminding us that when two people share a vision, something truly meaningful can emerge.

KATE HUDSON & HUGH JACKMAN

The film stars Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman and takes its name from one of Neil Diamond’s most tender and introspective songs. Before the premiere, I had already seen Song Sung Blue at a press screening — alone. Which, in hindsight, felt like a missed opportunity. This is a film meant to be watched together, ideally with someone who matters to you.

I spoke enthusiastically about the film to my team afterward, though at the time, daily responsibilities and work pressures weighed heavily on all of us. Still, for the premiere at Berlin’s beautiful Zoo Palast, I was accompanied by our dear Sarah.

I was genuinely curious how the film would affect her — especially since I assumed Neil Diamond’s music might not hold the same personal familiarity for her as it does for me.

I am not of Neil Diamond’s generation either. But through my mother, who was a devoted fan of the New York-born singer-songwriter, I grew up with his music. One song in particular, I Am… I Said, was played at my mother’s funeral. That connection alone turned my first viewing of the film into an emotional journey. By the time the premiere arrived, those emotions intensified.

Even though we did not have red carpet slots that evening, we were still able to see Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson up close. Both appeared warm, gracious, and deeply appreciative of their audience, taking time for fans and interviews before later surprising everyone with an intimate live performance at Berlin’s FluxBau — a moment that further underscored the spirit of the film.

A SPECIAL PERSON

In the theater, something quietly special happened. As the story unfolded, a sense of shared emotion grew between us — born from genuine feeling. It was deeply moving to see how the story touched Sarah`s heart, even without a strong personal connection to the music. The film created a space where emotions flowed freely, releasing an atmosphere that felt honest, open, and rare.

What Is Song Sung Blue About?

Mike Sardina, known on stage as Lightning (Hugh Jackman), is a cover musician tired of imitation. He longs to be authentic, to succeed as himself rather than through the voices of others. At a pivotal moment in his life, he meets Claire (Kate Hudson), who performs covers of artists like Patsy Cline. Though she is more at ease with her role, Mike’s desire to create something original inspires her deeply.

They fall in love, eventually forming Lightning & Thunder, a Neil Diamond tribute band — a partnership rooted not only in music, but in shared purpose, in great visions and huge dreams.

A True Story at Its Heart

Mike and Claire are based on real people. I strongly recommend not researching their story before watching the film. Let the narrative unfold naturally. Perhaps the reason Song Sung Blue resonates so deeply is because it is grounded in reality — in love, ambition, compromise, and perseverance.

The film does not promise perfection. Instead, it shows that belief in one another, patience, and unconditional support can lead not only to success, but to genuine great happiness. And even when life does not end in a conventional happy ending, there is dignity in what has been built together.

Performances and Music

Hugh Jackman is one of the most charming and grounded stars of our time, both on and off screen. Long beyond Wolverine, he has repeatedly proven his musical brilliance — from Les Misérables (2012) to The Greatest Showman (2017). In Song Sung Blue, he fully merges with Neil Diamond’s musical world, effortlessly moving audiences from laughter to tears.

Kate Hudson delivers a performance that surprises and captivates. Claire is vibrant, emotional, and magnetic. She doesn’t merely accompany Jackman musically — she elevates every scene with her presence and energy. The soundtrack lingers for days. Interestingly, it is not Sweet Caroline or even the title song that dominates emotionally, but the lesser-known Soolaimon — an inspired and powerful choice.

The Berlin Premiere — A Personal Note

For me personally, the Berlin premiere of Song Sung Blue was the most beautiful premiere experience I have had so far. Because of a wonderful film. Because of extraordinary music. And because of a remarkable woman by my side — someone who not only understood the film but felt it deeply.

Song Sung Blue speaks of sadness. At the time, I did not yet know that our own story would echo that sentiment, taking turns that were painful and unexpected. In a world shaped by constant influences and pressures, not all shared visions last. Sometimes paths separate, even when intentions were sincere.

Life is made of gains and losses, hope and disappointment, light and shadow. And perhaps that is exactly why I love Song Sung Blue even more. Because it offers hope. It reminds us that when we allow our feelings and dreams to breathe — when we give them wings (sorry Red Bull for using your slogan) — we keep our faith alive, no matter what comes.

If this film teaches us anything, it is that challenges are not meant to be avoided but faced. And that through them, we may grow — individually, and sometimes together.

For its moving story, remarkable performances, unforgettable music, and one truly special moment at its premiere, Song Sung Blue earns 10 out of 10 from me.

I love this film. And I will always carry this premiere, this moment, and one extraordinary person in my heart.

Thank you to Hollywood for still making films like this — films that create space for real emotion. And thank you Sarah for this unique evening. It’s a pity that real life sometimes writes different stories. But love and friendship find a way, always.