Kate Hudson, Hugh Jackman and ‘Song Sung Blue’ Director Craig Brewer Salute Neil Diamond (and Call Him on FaceTime) at AFI Fest Premiere: ‘It’s a Dream Come True’

The Hollywood premiere of "Song Sung Blue" at the TCL Chinese Theatre featured a unique virtual appearance. Music legend Neil Diamond, 84, joined the festivities remotely via a FaceTime call facilitated by his wife, Katie Diamond, on the red carpet. There, he connected with the film's stars, Kate Hudson and Hugh Jackman, and director Craig Brewer before the Sunday screening. The movie, which served as the closing night presentation for AFI Fest, tells the true story of Mike and Claire Sardina, a Milwaukee couple whose shared passion for Diamond's music inspired them to form the 1990s tribute band Lightning and Thunder.

Director Craig Brewer had already received the ultimate seal of approval, revealing that Neil Diamond himself had seen and loved the film. "Hearing that Neil was watching the movie, I realized he's truly the only audience I care about," Brewer stated, calling the moment a dream realized. This endorsement from the "Sweet Caroline" singer—whose storied six-decade career includes over 130 million albums sold worldwide—provided profound validation for a project deeply rooted in his legacy. Meanwhile, Kate Hudson expressed her own optimism, telling Variety she had a strong feeling audiences would connect with the film's emotional tone.

Cast members shared personal reflections on Diamond's influence. Jim Belushi, drawing from his extensive background with The Blues Brothers, praised the songwriter's ability to communicate directly. "I've always valued Neil Diamond for his linguistic simplicity and how swiftly he reaches the emotional core," Belushi noted. Fisher Stevens recounted a case of mistaken identity, as he shares a name with an Australian Neil Diamond impersonator, which once led to confused booking agents. He added that the film's power stems from the Sardinas' unwavering dedication to their vision. "It's incredibly moving to see people protect their dream from negativity," Stevens observed. "These two individuals are truly one-of-a-kind."

Acclaim for the lead performances was unanimous. Jim Belushi hailed Kate Hudson as a "lioness of an actress" and emphasized the film's role in showcasing her dynamic range, crediting Brewer's direction. He also pointed to Hugh Jackman's multifaceted talent as ideal for the part. Ella Anderson, recently named one of Variety's 10 Actors to Watch, admired how Jackman and Hudson fully immersed themselves in their roles, creating a motivating environment on set. This shared commitment was essential for portraying the movie's central theme: the power of music and common dreams to bring people together.

The event concluded with Hugh Jackman sharing a poignant final exchange from his conversation with Neil Diamond. After Jackman asked if the icon had a message for the audience, he relayed to the crowd, "He said, 'Tell everyone I love them, and to keep singing.'" That sincere, uplifting sentiment perfectly encapsulated the spirit of "Song Sung Blue"—a celebration of artistic passion and the enduring bonds it forges, proving that a legend's words can resonate powerfully, even from afar.