Taron Egerton's Emotional Performance, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

It’s like being in a big, fancy cage.

Therapist
Therapist

Can you tell me more about that?

Elton John
Elton John

The world sees this glamorous façade, but inside, I’m screaming.

Therapist
Therapist

What do you feel when you’re on stage?

Elton John
Elton John

Alive. But offstage, it’s a different story.

Therapist
Therapist

What do you fear the most?

Elton John
Elton John

That I’ll be alone. That nobody will love me.

Therapist
Therapist

You’re never alone, Elton.

Elton John
Elton John

But I feel like I am.

First Encounter with Bernie Taupin, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I hear you write lyrics. Can I see some?

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Sure, but I’m not sure you’ll like them.

Elton John
Elton John

Try me.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Alright... 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road'.

Elton John
Elton John

That’s brilliant! I can hear the melody.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Really? What do you hear?

Elton John
Elton John

Something magical.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Maybe we could write something together?

Facing Criticism and Self-Reflection, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

They hate me. Everything I've worked for…

Manager
Manager

You can’t please everyone, Elton.

Elton John
Elton John

But what if this is the end?

Manager
Manager

It’s just one bad night.

Elton John
Elton John

But it feels like so much more.

Manager
Manager

You’re a legend. One review won't change that.

Elton's Struggles with Identity, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

Why can’t you just accept me for who I am?

Mother
Mother

I can’t support this lifestyle, Elton.

Elton John
Elton John

This is my life! I’m not a phase!

Father
Father

We just want what’s best for you.

Elton John
Elton John

This is best for me!

Mother
Mother

We don’t understand this choice.

Elton John
Elton John

It’s not a choice; it’s who I am!

A Moment of Clarity, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

Do you ever think of what could have been?

First Love
First Love

Every day, but life moves on.

Elton John
Elton John

I wish I could turn back time.

First Love
First Love

You’ve made something great of your life.

Elton John
Elton John

But at what cost?

First Love
First Love

We all pay a price for our dreams.

The Struggle with Fame, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I can’t keep this up forever!

Manager
Manager

It’s part of the game, Elton.

Elton John
Elton John

It shouldn’t feel like a game.

Manager
Manager

That’s how the industry works.

Elton John
Elton John

I’m more than just a performer!

Manager
Manager

And that’s why we need to keep going.

Reunion with Bernie, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I’ve missed you.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Same here, mate.

Elton John
Elton John

Do you think we can still write together?

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Always. It’s in our blood.

Elton John
Elton John

I need you like never before.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Let’s make magic again.

Overcoming Addiction, Reelive

Rehab Therapist
Rehab Therapist

What do you want, Elton?

Elton John
Elton John

I want to be free.

Rehab Therapist
Rehab Therapist

Free from what?

Elton John
Elton John

From myself. From this pain.

Rehab Therapist
Rehab Therapist

Then you have to fight for it.

Elton John
Elton John

I’m ready.

The Power of Acceptance, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I just want to be loved for who I am.

Friend
Friend

You are loved, Elton.

Elton John
Elton John

But it doesn’t feel that way.

Friend
Friend

That’s because you’re not loving yourself.

Elton John
Elton John

How do I do that?

Friend
Friend

Start by forgiving yourself.

The Disconnect of Love, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I feel like I’m losing you.

Partner
Partner

You’re too consumed by your career.

Elton John
Elton John

Can’t you see I’m trying?

Partner
Partner

Trying isn’t the same as being present.

Elton John
Elton John

What more do you want from me?

Partner
Partner

All I’ve ever wanted is you.

Music as Hope, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

Music saves me. It always has.

Friend
Friend

Is it your escape?

Elton John
Elton John

More than that. It’s my voice.

Friend
Friend

A voice that matters.

Elton John
Elton John

I hope so. I hope it reaches someone.

Confronting Fame, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

Do you even know me?

Reporter
Reporter

I know the story you sell.

Elton John
Elton John

But that’s not the whole truth!

Reporter
Reporter

Truth is subjective.

Elton John
Elton John

I’m tired of spinning the narrative.

Reporter
Reporter

What would you change?

Elton John
Elton John

Everything.

The Price of Success, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

Is it worth it, do you think?

Manager
Manager

What do you mean?

Elton John
Elton John

The fame, the money, the accolades?

Manager
Manager

That depends on what you value.

Elton John
Elton John

I just want to feel happy.

Manager
Manager

Happiness isn’t a guarantee.

The Bond Between Elton and Bernie, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

You’re the only one who gets me.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

That’s what makes us work.

Elton John
Elton John

I don’t want to lose that.

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

You won’t. We’re in this together.

Elton John
Elton John

Promise?

Bernie Taupin
Bernie Taupin

Always.

Elton's Redemption, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I’m sorry for everything.

Family Member
Family Member

We’re just glad you’re back.

Elton John
Elton John

I’ve learned from my mistakes.

Family Member
Family Member

Everyone deserves a second chance.

Elton John
Elton John

Then let’s start anew.

Embracing Vulnerability, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I often feel like I'm not enough.

Partner
Partner

You’re more than enough for me.

Elton John
Elton John

What if I fail?

Partner
Partner

Then we deal with it together.

Elton John
Elton John

You always know what to say.

Partner
Partner

Because I believe in you.

The Impact of Music, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

Music can change the world.

Young Artist
Young Artist

Really? How?

Elton John
Elton John

It brings people together, it heals.

Young Artist
Young Artist

I want to be part of that.

Elton John
Elton John

Then don’t hold back on your creativity.

The Journey to Authenticity, Reelive

Elton John
Elton John

I want to be true to myself.

Inner Voice
Inner Voice

Then why hide?

Elton John
Elton John

Because I’m scared.

Inner Voice
Inner Voice

Scared of what?

Elton John
Elton John

Of losing everything I built.

Inner Voice
Inner Voice

But what if it leads to more?

Elton John

I’m not going to pretend to be someone I’m not. I’ve got to let the real me out.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I just want to sing, and I want to be loved.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I’m not a monster. I’m just a flawed human being.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

There’s more to life than just fame and fortune.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

You’ve got to kill the monster before it kills you.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I’m just a kid from Pinner. I didn’t choose this life. It chose me.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

Music is my therapy.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I’ve spent decades trying to find myself. Now I’m free.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I want love, but I don’t want to lose myself.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

There’s a thrill in being who you are.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

Fame is just an illusion.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

You can be loved and lost, but you cannot be unloved.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

We all want to be seen, to be heard, to matter.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I’m a rock star, not a role model.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

Life is too short to be anything but yourself.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I’ve lost everything, but I’ve found myself.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

Love me for who I am, not for who you want me to be.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

I’ll take the pain with the joy. That’s what life is.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

You can’t change the past, but you can shape your future.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

It’s never too late to be who you might have been.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

Every night, I open my eyes and see a world I can’t control.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

When you hit rock bottom, the only way is up.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive
Elton John

Sometimes you have to walk away to find your way back.

Elton John

Rocketman, Reelive

Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)

Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time) by Elton John, Elton's performance at the Dodger Stadium

Tiny Dancer

Tiny Dancer by Elton John, The road trip scene with Elton and his friends

Crocodile Rock

Crocodile Rock by Elton John, Celebration scene with friends and family

Your Song

Your Song by Elton John, Elton's intimate performance to his first love

I'm Still Standing

I'm Still Standing by Elton John, Final performance, showcasing resilience


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The Opening Breakdown

The film opens with Elton John walking into a group therapy session dressed in a flamboyant outfit. As he sits down, he begins to recount his life story. This moment sets the stage for the entire film, establishing the struggles he faces with addiction, fame, and his identity.

Context: This scene highlights Elton's vulnerability and foreshadows the emotional journey of acceptance and self-discovery that unfolds throughout the movie.

Elton's First Performance

Elton takes the stage at a small venue in Los Angeles. Despite his nerves, as the music begins, he transforms into the superstar the world knows. This moment marks the beginning of his rise to fame, showcasing his talent and passion.

Context: This performance is pivotal as it captures Elton's love for music and sets off a series of events that lead to his complicated relationship with fame.

Meeting Bernie Taupin

Elton meets Bernie Taupin for the first time, and the chemistry between them is palpable. They bond over music and quickly become collaborators. Their partnership lays the foundation for Elton's songwriting success.

Context: Bernie represents a crucial turning point in Elton’s life, becoming both a friend and a creative partner, marking the start of a lifelong collaboration.

The Success and Isolation

As Elton's fame grows, he finds himself in a lavish party filled with celebrities. However, amidst the glitz, he feels utterly alone. The camera captures his disconnected expressions, contrasting the celebration around him.

Context: This moment emphasizes the loneliness that often accompanies fame, opening a dialogue about mental health and the price of success.

The Emotional Breakdown

During a particularly low moment, Elton sits in his home surrounded by empty bottles, screaming in despair. This explosive scene powerfully conveys his struggle with addiction and internal demons.

Context: The scene delves deep into Elton's pain, serving as a wake-up call in the narrative about the dangers of substance abuse.

Reconnecting with Family

Elton is reunited with his estranged parents and, during a heartfelt conversation, he yearns for their acceptance. Their coldness and rejection hit him hard, leading to an emotional outburst.

Context: This moment highlights the complex dynamics within his family, showing how their lack of support fuels Elton's feelings of inadequacy.

Writing 'Your Song'

In a quiet, intimate moment, Bernie writes the lyrics for 'Your Song' while Elton creates the melody. Their synergy shines as they craft a heartfelt song that captures their bond and mutual understanding.

Context: This scene emphasizes the creative freedom and joy that music brings to Elton, and it becomes a defining moment for both characters.

The Vegas Performance

Elton performs in Las Vegas clad in a dazzling costume, radiating confidence. The audience is enamored, yet as he looks out, a hint of sadness crosses his face, revealing his inner conflict.

Context: This scene juxtaposes external success with inner turmoil, cementing the film's exploration of the challenges that come with fame.

The Drug Overdose

Elton collapses at a party after taking an overdose. His friends panic, and the scene becomes chaotic as they try to revive him. This shocking moment underscores the severity of his addiction.

Context: The overdose serves as a turning point in Elton's life, forcing him to confront the reality of his choices and their impact on his health.

The Apology to Bernie

Elton reflects on his past behavior and seeks forgiveness from Bernie for pushing him away during his darkest times. The emotional exchange is raw and heartfelt, highlighting their enduring friendship.

Context: This reconciliation is vital as it reestablishes their bond and reminds viewers of the importance of understanding and forgiveness.

Coming Out to the World

In a beautiful, symbolic moment, Elton decides to embrace his identity and come out publicly. His performance during this time is filled with passion, reflecting his liberation.

Context: This scene is significant for its representation of self-acceptance and courage, aligning with broader themes of identity and love.

The Grammy Win

Elton wins a Grammy and as he stands on stage accepting his award, he delivers an emotional speech that expresses gratitude for his journey and the people who have supported him.

Context: This scene symbolizes the culmination of Elton's hard work, resilience, and growth, capturing a moment of celebration and recognition in his life.

The Final Performance

Elton steps onto the stage for his farewell tour. He reflects on his life and legacy while performing a powerful song that resonates deeply with him. The audience is moved.

Context: The farewell performance serves as a closure for both Elton and the audience, showcasing the evolution of his character throughout the film.

Healing with Family

Elton sits with his family, sharing heartfelt moments that illustrate the healing process in their relationships. The dialogue is sincere, filled with open conversations about love and acceptance.

Context: This scene shows growth and reconciliation in Elton's personal life, reinforcing the film's themes of familial love and acceptance.

The Transformation Scene

Through stunning visual storytelling, Elton’s transition from a young boy in a conservative household to a glamorous international star is depicted. Each stage of his life is highlighted with a relevant song.

Context: This montage powerfully captures the essence of Elton’s journey, showcasing the contrast between his past struggles and present achievements.

The Moment of Clarity

In a vulnerable moment, Elton looks in the mirror and finally confronts who he truly is without the facade of fame. This moment is both liberating and heartbreaking.

Context: This scene marks a significant turning point in Elton’s journey towards self-acceptance and authenticity.

The Reunion with the Past

Elton visits his childhood home and interacts with memories of his past, both good and bad. This poignant moment provides a window into his earlier life and the struggles he faced.

Context: This visit to the past emphasizes the importance of confronting one’s history to move forward in life.

The Song 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road'

During a reflective moment, Elton sings 'Goodbye Yellow Brick Road'. The lyrics take on deeper meaning as he contemplates leaving behind the glitz and pressures of fame.

Context: This scene encapsulates the theme of searching for one’s true self beyond the fame and glamour, becoming a poignant farewell to his past.

The Relationship with David Furnish

Elton shares a deep conversation with David Furnish, expressing his fears and insecurities. Their exchange showcases a healthy partnership built on love and support.

Context: This relationship highlights the positive aspects of love, bringing light and hope to Elton’s life amidst the darkness.

The Reflection on Loss

Elton reflects on the loss of friends and loved ones during a somber moment, highlighting the impact of his past experiences on his present state.

Context: This emotional reflection adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing themes of grief and the fragility of life.

Finding His Voice

In a transformative scene, Elton stands before a mirror, practicing his performance while confronting his fears. This moment demonstrates his growth as both an artist and an individual.

Context: This scene reaffirms themes of self-discovery and resilience, showcasing the journey to finding one’s voice within.

The Reveal of the Real Elton

In a climactic moment, Elton removes his flamboyant glasses and reveals his true self to the audience. The impact of this act resonates deeply, showcasing vulnerability and honesty.

Context: This pivotal moment symbolizes his acceptance of self and marks a turning point in his journey towards authenticity.

The Music Brings Healing

In a montage of scenes, different people find solace in Elton's music. This emphasizes the universal power of music to heal and connect people across different walks of life.

Context: This completion of the emotional arc reinforces the film's message about the ability of art to impact lives positively.

The Legacy of Elton John

In the closing scene, Elton walks away from the spotlight, leaving the audience with a sense of peace and fulfillment. The final shot of him smiling is incredibly moving.

Context: This moment encapsulates his journey, celebrating both his achievements and the battles he's faced, echoing the film's themes of redemption and self-acceptance.


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Casting of Taron Egerton as Elton John

Initially, the filmmakers were interested in casting well-known actors for the role of Elton John, but Taron Egerton's audition, which included singing as well as acting, won over the creators.

Why it matters: Egerton's raw talent and ability to embody the character's essence set the tone for the film, making his performance both authentic and emotionally resonant.

Use of Actual Elton John's Costumes

The film includes several of Elton John's actual stage costumes from his career, lending an air of authenticity in portraying his flamboyant style.

Why it matters: This choice not only enhanced the visual storytelling but also paid homage to Elton's legacy, allowing fans to connect more deeply with his real-life experiences.

Musical Performance Rehearsals

Taron Egerton spent months rehearsing both the singing and piano playing to ensure his performance felt genuine, leading to him performing many of the songs live on set.

Why it matters: This dedication brought a level of authenticity to the musical sequences that differentiated 'Rocketman' from standard biopics, enhancing the emotional depth and impact of the musical performances.

Unique Approach to Musical Numbers

The filmmakers decided to approach musical numbers as literally integral to the narrative, allowing actors to break into song in the midst of dramatic scenes.

Why it matters: By blurring the lines between reality and musical fantasy, the film captures the tumultuous emotional journey of Elton John, making it memorable and engaging.

Elton John's Involvement

Elton John was heavily involved in the film’s production, serving as a producer and giving insights into his life that shaped the narrative.

Why it matters: His personal touch ensured that the film accurately reflected his experiences and emotional struggles, making the biopic relatable and heartfelt.

Visual Aesthetic Choices

Director Dexter Fletcher utilized vibrant colors and surreal visuals during musical sequences to reflect Elton John's extraordinary persona.

Why it matters: This artistic choice elevated the film’s mood and captivated audiences, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that matched Elton’s vibrant music and personality.

Casting Engine Charlie Rowe as Elton's Early Friend

Charlie Rowe, who played Bernie Taupin’s childhood friend, was originally cast as a small role but eventually showcased a strong chemistry with Egerton, leading to expanded scenes.

Why it matters: This relationship was vital in highlighting the support network around Elton, deepening the narrative while adding nuance to the friendship themes in the film.

Filming Location for Iconic Scenes

Key scenes were filmed at the historic Elstree Studios in England, which hosted many famous productions over the years.

Why it matters: This setting lent cinematic credibility to 'Rocketman', while also tying the film to British pop culture and the roots of Elton John's journey.

Acting Preparation

Taron Egerton took vocal coaching and piano lessons as part of his preparation, working closely with music professionals to master the songs.

Why it matters: This extensive preparation allowed for a seamless integration between actor and character, bolstering the emotional weight of live performances within the film.

Filming Signature Dance Moves

The group choreography during musical numbers was developed collaboratively by Egerton and a choreographer, bringing spontaneity and flair to the film's performances.

Why it matters: This collaborative process added realism and allowed for creative moments in both performances and interactions during the songs, enriching the narrative flow.

The 'I'm Still Standing' Scene

The energy of the 'I'm Still Standing' scene was heightened with extensive use of cranes and drones to capture dynamic aerial shots.

Why it matters: These innovative filming techniques emphasized the celebratory nature of the music and Elton John's resilience, creating an unforgettable visual impact.

Transformation of Egerton

To embody the character, Taron Egerton dramatically changed his appearance, including a physical transformation with wigs and makeup to reflect Elton's style.

Why it matters: This transformation allowed audiences to see Egerton as Elton rather than just an actor, adding credibility to his portrayal and enhancing emotional engagement.

Directorial Style

Dexter Fletcher's direction drew on blending real-life events with a fantasy approach, diverging from traditional biopic expectations.

Why it matters: This stylistic choice provided audiences with a fresh perspective on Elton John's story, making the film a unique experience among biographical films.

Strategic Use of Flashbacks

The narrative structure employed flashbacks to depict key moments effectively, matching the flow of the emotional storytelling.

Why it matters: This technique helped to build character depth and highlight the contrasts within Elton's life, shaping audience perceptions and emotional responses.

Collaboration with Bernie Taupin

Bernie Taupin, Elton's long-time collaborator, was consulted to ensure the lyrics integrated into the film matched the emotional journey.

Why it matters: Taupin's contributions enriched the authenticity of the musical numbers, fostering a deeper connection between the audience and the characters.

The 'Tiny Dancer' Scene

A poignant moment is set to 'Tiny Dancer', filmed spontaneously to capture the raw emotions of the characters.

Why it matters: This scene became one of the film's most memorable, representing the emotional highs and lows of Elton's journey, resonating strongly with viewers.

Diverse Musical Genres

The film showcases varying musical styles from different eras of Elton's career, challenging audiences' expectations.

Why it matters: This richness in style highlighted Elton's versatility as an artist, inviting audience appreciation across a broader emotional spectrum.

Safety Issues on Set

During filming, safety protocols were rigorously followed due to the elaborate stage sets, which included fire effects and heavy costumes.

Why it matters: The attention to safety ensured the well-being of cast and crew, allowing for elaborate sequences to be filmed without incident, thus preserving the film's artistic vision.

Focus on Elton's Vulnerability

The creative team made a deliberate effort to portray Elton John's struggles, balancing his flamboyant persona with moments of vulnerability.

Why it matters: This contrast made the character relatable, enhancing viewer empathy and understanding toward Elton's personal battles.

Real-life Inspirations

Many scenes are based on Elton's actual life experiences, with several events directly drawn from his autobiography.

Why it matters: This authenticity added credibility to the narrative, making it easier for audiences to connect with John as a person rather than a mere celebrity.

Emotional Reactions on Set

Emotional scenes frequently led to visceral reactions from the cast, particularly during moments exploring Elton's relationships with family.

Why it matters: These genuine responses resulted in heartfelt performances that resonate with audiences, grounding the film in real emotion.

Production Challenges

Shooting schedules faced challenges due to tight timelines and the demands of synchronization between music and camera work.

Why it matters: Despite these challenges, the production team's adaptability contributed significantly to the video's energy and the film's final dynamism.

Dance Choreography Rivaling Broadway

The film's dance sequences were inspired by both musical theater and pop performance, often rivaling Broadway productions.

Why it matters: This elevated choreography added an extra level of entertainment to the film, drawing parallels with theatrical productions and enriching the overall viewing experience.


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