Kate Hudson marked the world premiere of Song Sung Blue in Los Angeles with a tribute to Neil Diamond, taking a FaceTime call from the singer as she and co-star Hugh Jackman greeted fans and posed with director Craig Brewer. The film closed AFI Fest on October 26 and is set for a theatrical release on December 25. Brewer’s drama is inspired by a real Wisconsin couple who built a career performing Diamond’s songs as the tribute act Lightning & Thunder, with Hudson and Jackman portraying the duo’s on- and off-stage partnership.
On the carpet, Hudson praised Jackman’s performance and chemistry, telling reporters “it’s hard not to fall in love with him,” while social posts from the event captured the Diamond call that added a personal benediction to the night. The studio framed the rollout as an event launch for a music-driven crowd-pleaser, emphasizing a Christmas Day exclusive theatrical window. Early reactions from the screening highlighted Brewer’s blend of romance and showmanship and singled out Hudson’s turn as a potential awards play, even as opinions varied on the film’s sentimentality.
Song Sung Blue reunites Brewer with cinematographer Amy Vincent and composer Scott Bomar, with Focus Features handling U.S. distribution. The story, drawn from a 2008 documentary, follows the couple’s highs and setbacks as they chase steady work and a second chance at family and fulfillment. Marketing has leaned on Jackman and Hudson’s live vocals; ahead of release, Jackman performed with musician King Princess, who also appears in the film, during his New York concert dates, while the trailer showcases staples like “Cherry, Cherry” and “Sweet Caroline.” AFI positioned the premiere as a celebratory closer, noting the film’s message about perseverance through music.
