While Song Sung Blue Was Slammed By Mike Sardina’s Son, Neil Diamond Had A Different Reaction

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This awards season, the movie Song Sung Blue has become a popular choice among music fans. It tells the true story of musicians Mike and Claire Sardina, who create a tribute band to Neil Diamond called Lightning & Thunder. Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson star as Mike and Claire, portraying their lives and family challenges. Critics generally love the film, praising its heartwarming story. However, Mike Sardina’s son has publicly expressed his concerns about how the movie depicts their family, while Neil Diamond himself seems to enjoy it.

Craig Brewer, the writer and director of Song Sung Blue, recently discussed how involved Neil Diamond was with the project, including getting permission to use Diamond’s music. Although Brewer wasn’t beside Diamond when the singer finally watched the film, Brewer planned ahead to get Diamond’s feedback. He shared with Entertainment Weekly:

I wasn’t there with Neil myself, but I had a couple of people keeping me in the loop. I’d been warned beforehand that he’s not the type to gush over films. Apparently, he’s more of an analytical viewer – he watches and really studies what he’s seeing, rather than just getting swept away by it.

Diamond wasn’t easily convinced, and initially refused to allow his music to be used in the documentary Song Sung Blue. However, after watching the film, he changed his mind and gave the producers permission. This means the singer already knew something about the Sardinas’ story beforehand. He was happy to let Brewer and the filmmakers use his music, and even became a fan of Song Sung Blue once he saw it. As Brewer explained:

People who were with him said they were amazed by how much he enjoyed the film – he was tapping his foot, applauding after each song, and even cried. Afterwards, he immediately asked the person running the screening when he could watch it again, eager for another viewing.

It’s wonderful to receive such positive feedback! The movie is clearly resonating with viewers, especially Neil Diamond himself. The use of his music likely deepened his connection to the film. Ultimately, Brewer’s movie highlights how much of an impact Diamond’s songs have had on people’s lives. It’s a truly special film, and this kind of recognition means a lot. Here’s what Brewer had to say about his reaction:

I was really pleased with how he reacted. I don’t want him to seek validation, but I hope he understands just how important his songwriting is. He’s known as a performer, and that’s great, but he’s also a fantastic writer. These songs came from his own thoughts and feelings, and he truly poured his heart into creating them.

Despite Diamond finding emotional resonance in the film, Mike Sardina Jr., Mike Sardina’s son with Diane Annunziata, strongly disputes its accuracy, calling it full of “lies.” He wasn’t included in the movie, which he sees as one of many inaccuracies. However, director Craig Brewer suggests this frustration stems from Sardina Jr.’s own decision not to participate in the project.

The film Song Sung Blue is definitely stirring strong feelings in viewers, whether positive or negative. It’s common for adaptations of real-life stories to be controversial, particularly for those directly involved. However, the movie successfully showcases the power of Neil Diamond’s music, resonating with audiences through his beautiful songs and classic songwriting. Making a good music-based film is challenging, but Neil Diamond himself seems pleased with how this one turned out.

The new movie Song Sung Blue is now playing in theaters everywhere. Kate Hudson’s performance has been nominated for a Golden Globe in 2026, so don’t miss seeing it on the big screen!

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2026-01-03 20:41