Plot: What’s it about?
I’ll be the first to admit that I’d never heard of “Lightning and Thunder”, a Milwaukee-based Neil Diamond tribute band, but that doesn’t mean that great stories have to be well-known. My wife and I were “stuck” at my parents’ house one weekend and my Mom had wanted to watch this. I’d only heard of the movie in passing, but knew that Hudson had just received an Oscar nomination for her role. And I’m always a fan of Jackman. Add to that it was written and directed by Craig Brewer, who have us Hustle & Flow back in 2005 – I was in. Looking at the performances was one thing, but I’ve always had a soft spot for Neil Diamond songs. There’s something about him and his songs that a lot of folks can relate to and I suppose that’s why he’s had a career that’s spanned over six decades. The stage is set, literally, so let’s get started.
We meet Mike Sardina (Hugh Jackman), a recovering alcoholic and Vietnam War Veteran who’s a celebrity impersonator forced to play “less than desirable” roles). He meets a Patsy Cline impersonator with Claire (Kate Hudson). The two hit it off, fall in love and get married all the while forming a band, “Lightning and Thunder” as a Neil Diamond tribute band. There are some ups and downs to their relationship, but things change when they’re given a golden opportunity to open for Pearl Jam by the band’s frontman – Eddie Vedder (John Beckwith). Things are going well, but an unforeseen tragedy strikes (I won’t say what) that changes both their personal and professional dynamic. Things go from bad to worse to better to, well…if you know the story then you know how it goes.
There are some truly great moments in the film, but I have a few complaints: first and foremost – it’s too long. At 132 minutes, I felt it ran on a bit too much and a few of the songs became repetitive. I mean, really, how many times can you hear Diamonds’ obscure “Soolaimon?” The second is that it’s not a very uplifting movie. Bad things happen quite frequently. I was reminded of another film, though not at all similar, with Monster’s Ball in which every scene seemed to outdo the other with tragedy. That aside, both Jackman and Hudson deliver outstanding performances. And, I will say, that the film doesn’t get too dark – it avoids some obvious pratfalls that could have been taken. If you’re a fan of the work of Neil Diamond, this one’s for you.
Video: How’s it look?
Universal’s 1.85:1 AVC HD encode leaves little to the imagination with this stunning and, dare I say it, perfect transfer. The whole gamut is run with extreme close-ups (the opening scene) to concert venues with stage lighting and interior shots. Detail is spot on, colors are a bit on the muted side for the majority of the film, but somehow they “come alive” during the musical performances. I can imagine that had I seen this in the theater, during some performances I’d feel as if I was at a concert! It’s a great-looking transfer and a reminder to me that even though it’s not 4K doesn’t mean it can’t look amazing.
Audio: How’s it sound?
I’ve become somewhat spoiled by Dolby Atmos tracks and, I have to admit, this would be the perfect film for such a track but we’re treated to the next best thing with a Dolby TrueHD 7.1 mix. Hudson and Jackman did all their own singing (and, yes, they can carry a tune) and some of the songs do sound downright amazing. Then again how many times can one hear “Sweet Caroline” in two hours? There’s great channel separation, the surrounds provide just the right amount of ambiance and the LFE even have a few moments to shine. This is what this kind of track is made for.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Audio Commentary – Writer and Director Craig Brewer gives a very informative and thorough commentary that covers all the bases from casting to singing and, of course, Neil Dimond. Like the movie itself, I found it a bit lagging in places, but by and large it’s a decent track and one that fans will enjoy.
- Extended Performances – Two total with “Crunchy Granola Suite” and the obligatory “Sweet Caroline” included.
- One Plus One Equals Three – There is no Lightning without Thunder. Watch as Hugh and Kate reminisce on their characters’ love story, co-dependency, and their undeniable electricity.
- Lightning in a Bottle – A love letter to the small-time performers, go behind the scenes with Writer/Director Craig Brewer to see how he brought the film to life.
- Eye for Style – Costume Designer Ernesto Martinez reveals the art of storytelling through stitch and style.
The Bottom Line
This was a fun movie to watch, though it wasn’t the most uplifting. Both Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson turn in great performances and, yes, they can really sing. Universal’s disc offers reference-quality audio and visuals and there’s a smattering of extras that might sway someone for a purchase if they were so inclined.
