ScreenFish

where faith and film are intertwined

Taron Egerton

5.20 Launching the ROCKETMAN

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Taron Egerton in Rocketman from Paramount Pictures.

The current rock-hero biopic trend continues with ROCKETMAN, an intimate and honest fantasy about the life of Elton John. Starring Taron Egerton as the musical icon, the film frames itself in the context of a therapy session, allowing John to explore his past and how it has driven him to superstardom, demons and all. This week, Jolie Featherstone of @TOFilmFiles and Screenfish’r Julie Levac join us to tackle the film’s examination of mental health, the complexities of censorship and what it means to be ‘loved properly’.

You can also stream the episode above on podomatic, Alexa (via Stitcher), Spotify or Soundcloud! Or, you can download the ep on Apple Podcasts or Google Play!

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

5.20 RocketmanDownload

Eddie the Eagle: Everyone Dreams

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eddietheeagleEddie Edwards (Taron Egerton) dreams of the Olympics as a ten-year-old. Unfortunately, he’s terrible at everything. His mother is incredibly supportive; his father is… not. But when Eddie discovers ski jumping, he realizes that he could be the first British Olympian in the sport (since 1929). Against all odds, he pursues his dream.

Hugh Jackman and Christopher Walken show up as one-time Olympian Bronson Peary and his former mentor Warren Sharp. These two have their own issues, but they are ultimately pulled into the vortex that is Eddie’s undying enthusiasm to be an Olympian. From the narrative perspective, Edwards’ unwillingness to give up and his powerful joy stand up in amazing ways.

eddietheeagle2Behind the story, Egerton’s transformation from Eggsy in Kingsman to Edwards is nothing short of amazing. If I hadn’t previously read about Egerton’s involvement, I never would have believed this was the same guy. His delivery and mannerisms are so remarkably different that they match the changes (prosthetics) made to Egerton’s appearance as well.

While the film is about Edwards pursuing his dream, it’s also about reconciliation. Can Peary and Sharp get over their old wounds? Will Edwards ever receive the approval of his father that he longs for? What will it take to get the people in Edwards’ life to see what they have and appreciate it, rather than constantly beating on each other’s dreams?

So many figures from the Old and New Testament receive messages from God in their dreams; of course, Edwards’ dream is different but no less powerful. In the end, he recognizes who he is and what he’s called to do, regardless of the odds. It’s uplifting, powerful, and family-oriented in a way that rises to just the perfect height.