Here’s a bold statement: Song Sung Blue, the highly anticipated Oscar contender starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, didn’t exactly set the box office on fire during its Christmas Day opening weekend. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is a slow start always a sign of failure, or could this be the beginning of a sleeper hit? Let’s dive in.
The film, directed by Craig Brewer, follows the real-life story of Milwaukee’s Neil Diamond tribute act, Lightning & Thunder, played by Jackman and Hudson. Despite grossing a modest $12 million across the four-day holiday weekend, according to Variety, the movie landed in eighth place at the North American box office. It trailed behind heavy hitters like Avatar: Fire and Ash (first place), Zootopia 2 (second), and even the comedy reboot Anaconda (fifth), starring Jack Black and Paul Rudd. Another Oscar hopeful, Marty Supreme with Timothée Chalamet, secured third place.
And this is the part most people miss: While the numbers may seem underwhelming, Song Sung Blue has several factors working in its favor. First, audiences are raving about it, awarding the film an impressive 'A' CinemaScore and a 97% on Rotten Tomatoes' 'Popcorn Meter.' Critics are also on board, with a 75% approval rating. Plus, the film’s $30 million budget is significantly lower than competitors like Anaconda and Marty Supreme, making a return on investment more attainable.
Here’s an interesting twist: 53% of Song Sung Blue’s ticket buyers were over 55, a demographic known for taking their time to visit theaters. As David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research pointed out, this could mean the film has staying power, fueled by strong word of mouth. Sound familiar? Hugh Jackman’s The Greatest Showman followed a similar trajectory in 2017, starting with just $8.8 million in its opening weekend before skyrocketing to $174 million domestically and nearly $435 million worldwide.
Based on Greg Kohs’ 2008 documentary of the same name, the film chronicles the highs and lows of married musicians Mike and Claire Sardina, from their rise as a local sensation (including a performance with Pearl Jam) to their struggles with health challenges. The cast includes Michael Imperioli, Jim Belushi, and Fisher Stevens, who portray real-life relatives and friends of the Sardinas.
Milwaukee has been buzzing with excitement for the film, thanks to an intense publicity campaign featuring Jackman and Brewer. Highlights included a premiere at the Oriental Theatre, Jackman’s visits to Kopp’s Frozen Custard and the Milwaukee High School of the Arts, and even a scheduled performance by Claire Sardina at Paulie’s Pub & Eatery on December 30. But here’s the question: Can Song Sung Blue replicate the long-term success of The Greatest Showman, or will it fade into obscurity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate worth having!
