A sweeping chronicle of the rise of Freddie Mercury & Queen.

Rating: Null/10 (8 December 2018)

I've been excited for this film before the first trailer was shown and it didn't disappoint me. Much like Queen's discography, it plays all the big hits from their history. But since all of them were such big hits it leaves little time for the linear notes. And while they do gloss over certain things in Mercury's life and stray a bit from the historical truth at times, this film ultimately gives an entertaining portrayal of the dynamic history of Queen. The performances are where this film really shines. Rami Malek is electric as Freddie Mercury, with the most precision in replicating his mannerisms and presence. But I'm just as impressed by the rest of the cast, especially the other band members & Freddie's family. Seeing the interactions between the band mates while performing or while working in the studio were my favorite parts. To watch them work and fight with each other to create the songs that we all love is a lot of fun and I hope is close to how those decisions were actually made. The opening sequence shows us exactly where our story is headed and there isn't a better place for us to stop than with Queen back on top.