In Wisconsin, Mike ‘Lightning’ Sardina (Hugh Jackman) introduces himself as a musician impersonator at an AA meeting. Later, Mike goes to a State Fair where he meets Patsy Cline impersonator Claire (Kate Hudson). Soon, Mike proposes joining forces as Lightning and Thunder, a Neil Diamond experience band.

Hugh Jackman delves back into his The Greatest Showman bag of tricks to deliver a rousing, inspirational and joyous turn as a Neil Diamond impersonator. Based on a true story, Hugh embodies the desire to follow one’s heart in the creative arts. Down on his luck, Mike comes alive when performing for others and meets his counterpart in Claire. As musical partners, the two share a love of music which leads organically, and quickly, to a romance. The duo is at their best when they, and their bandmates, throw themselves joyously into a creative flow, revitalising their nostalgic favourites. Setbacks seem crushing when compared to the thrilling highs the two share, and their world seems colder the further they are from pursuing their love of performing music.

Like The Greatest Showman, the musical numbers are rousing and uplifting, expressing the duo’s love of playing together, of each other and the music of Neil Diamond. Diamond’s music is reinterpreted by the duo who wish to share Diamond’s lesser-known back catalogue in an authentic, sincere and non-cheesy way.

While Hugh and Kate bring the goods, their supporting cast is solid, particularly their characters’ long-suffering children.

Verdict: A beautiful, joyous experience, showcasing the importance of chasing one’s passions. 5 stars. 

Luke McWilliams, themovieclub.net. Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.