SHINE ON YOU CRAZY TRIBUTE

Craig Brewer's heartrending drama of triumph against adversity is "based on a true love story" as chronicled in Greg Kohs’ 2008 documentary of the same title.

- With DAMON SMITH

SONG SUNG BLUE CERT 12A, IN CINEMAS NOW ✰✰✰

Without that declaration during the opening credits, it would be easy to dismiss Song Sung Blue as outlandish and manipulative fiction.

In the late 1980s, singer Mike Sardina (Hugh Jackman) meets fellow performer Claire Stengl (Kate Hudson) at the Wisconsin State Fair where she entertains the crowd by impersonating Patsy Cline. At Claire’s suggestion, Mike considers forming a Neil Diamond tribute act and he works with her on the repertoire, anchored by singalong favourite Sweet Caroline.

The couple form double-act Lightning And Thunder and secure gigs with the help of Mike's manager, dentist Dr Dave Watson (Fisher Stevens). Mike and Claire's relationship blossoms and he works hard to impress her daughter Rachel (Ella Anderson) and son Dayna (Hudson Hensley) while he repairs the relationship with his daughter Angelina (King Princess). But a shocking accident outside Claire's home tears their lives apart and they face a long, gruelling battle to reclaim the spotlight.