Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson are captivating audiences with their portrayal of true love, resilience, and the power of music in the upcoming film, "Song Sung Blue". The movie, set to release in theaters on December 25th, 2025, tells the story of Mike and Claire Sardina, a real-life Milwaukee-area couple who formed the Neil Diamond tribute band Lightning & Thunder.

Directed and written by Craig Brewer, "Song Sung Blue" is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name by Greg Kohs. The film follows Mike, played by Jackman, and Claire, played by Hudson, as they yearn for something more out of life. Claire dreams of a life beyond her job as a hairdresser, while Mike craves a "something big, something new". Their shared desire leads them to create Lightning & Thunder, a tribute to the iconic "Sweet Caroline" singer, Neil Diamond.

The trailer for "Song Sung Blue" showcases the development of Mike and Claire's relationship and their electrifying performances. Snippets of Jackman and Hudson performing Diamond's classics like "Cherry, Cherry" and "Sweet Caroline" have already generated significant buzz. Hudson's portrayal of Claire is already generating Oscar buzz, however, she remains grounded, stating that she is just enjoying the positive reception of the film.

Jackman and Hudson surprised fans at a New York City bar on December 1st, following the 2025 Gotham Awards, with an impromptu performance of Neil Diamond hits. The duo sang "Forever in Blue Jeans," "Crunchy Granola Suite," and "Sweet Caroline," much to the delight of the bar patrons. Earlier in the night, they received the inaugural Gotham Musical Tribute award for their roles in "Song Sung Blue," recognizing their outstanding musical performances that capture the essence of Diamond's music.

Adding to the authenticity of the film, Hudson revealed that she and Jackman finished filming and recording songs for the movie in December of the previous year. The cast also includes Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, musician King Princess in her big screen debut, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi.

In October, Hudson joined Jackman at Radio City Music Hall to perform Neil Diamond songs live on stage, further fueling anticipation for the film's release. Their performance included "Cherry, Cherry" and "Sweet Caroline," showcasing their on-screen chemistry and musical talent.

"Song Sung Blue" not only celebrates the music of Neil Diamond but also explores themes of love, dreams, and the courage to pursue a different path. As Hudson's character, Claire, aptly puts it, "You don't want to be a Neil Diamond impersonator. You want to be a Neil Diamond interpreter". The movie promises to be a heartwarming and entertaining tribute to Diamond's timeless music and the enduring power of love and resilience.