This year has been the year for musical movies such as A Star Is Born, Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again, and The Greatest Showman. If you think you’ve had your fill, Bohemian Rhapsody comes in; the musical movie you never thought you needed.
Named after the iconic single of the band Queen, the movie tells about the story of baggage handler Farrokh Bulsara’s rise to stardom and metamorphosis to renowned singer Freddie Mercury. With him in his journey is astrophysicist Brian May, almost-dentist Roger Taylor, and replacement bassist John Deacon. It portrays the group’s early struggles as a band, to the rocky peak of their popularity, and to the greatest performance of their lives, Live Aid 1985. I won’t be putting spoilers here because I’m sure you know how it ends.
The movie’s visuals literally make you put on nostalgia goggles with period-appropriate sets, costumes, and props. They even got it down to the placement of Pepsi cups on the Live Aid piano! If you want a comparison, you should watch the whole Live Aid performance here.
Now, let’s talk about the acting. I’ve no words for it but stellar. Rami Malek seems like he lived and breathed as Freddie in the movie, even after all the post-movie media appearances he attended. The supports in the film also did a good job with providing the bolster in order for the main to shine, such as Ben Hardy, Gwilym Lee, and Joseph Mazzello did a great job as well, owing to their real-life counterparts actually guiding them during filming. The supports in the film also did a good job with providing the bolster in order for the main to shine, such as Lucy Boynton as Mary Austin, Tom Hollander as Jim Beach, Aaron McCusker as Jim Hutton, and Allen Leech as Paul Prenter to name a few.
Do we really need to discuss about the soundtrack of this film? Whether you grew up listening to Queen, or know their songs through revivals and even memes, you will not help but stomp-stomp-clap-rest and sing along if the opportunity arises. This is actually a good opportunity and example for generations to share a common ground through their music.
The only gripe I have, however, is the veracity of some events in the movie versus what really happened in real life. Rolling Stone listed them here, and I shall let you see for yourself. I’ve read that had Sacha Bar[Publication] listed them here, and I shall let you see for yourself. I’ve read that had Sacha Baron-Cohen pushed through with his version, it would not be for all audiences. The movie angle was May and Taylor’s idea, and we have them to thank, as it would stay with us positively.
Honestly, I am expecting this movie to sweep awards by the time next year’s awards season rolls, and contrary to what movie critics say. Bohemian Rhapsody is a movie that inspires younger audiences of follow their aspirations, cheers on the dreamers to keep working on their dreams, and reminds those at the top to never forget where they were from.