Long Live Queen!

Rating: 9/10 (11 November 2018)

This film made me wonder about a few things, first - if Sasha Baron Cohen aka Ali G got the role would the story be much different from the version that it is now with Rami Malek, second- if Freddie Mercury was diagnosed at a later phase would he have survive to live today as is the case with Magic Johnson? , third - if the second case was true would Freddie approve of the " sanitized " version of his biopic. This film will make both Queen fans and non fans cry. Yes, I cry for the reason that there is no music like that today anymore, let alone no one can perform like Freddie and sounds brilliant as Freddie. As an impressionable student during the 80s, I have vivid memories of the Live Aid broadcast and the shock I had as a very gaunt Freddie performed with Queen onstage. I also vividly recall the scandals, gossips from former lovers, partners. Most of all , I am one of those millions who cried when Freddie passed on. Fast forward to twenty plus years later, now a middle aged person, I saw the remaining Queen members two years ago with Adam Lambert. There is a genuine longing for Freddie as there is only a legendary Freddie. This film will remind die hard fans how fast time flies. Rami Malek is stellar in his performance considering for a young actor he also acquired the nuances and movements. Solid internalization for someone who might have vague recollections of the band. Well written story for the big screen albeit cut short in some parts. Must see for 70s, 80s and real rock music lovers.