Hugh Jackman has praised teen actress Ella Anderson as one of the top five acting talents he has ever seen, highlighting her powerful audition for the Neil Diamond tribute film Song Sung Blue. The movie, starring Jackman and Kate Hudson as members of the tribute band Thunder & Lightning, explores the challenges facing their family and is now available for digital purchase or rental, with a Blu-ray release set for February 17.
Hugh Jackman’s High Praise for Ella Anderson’s Audition
During a special bonus clip from Song Sung Blue, Jackman expressed deep admiration for Anderson’s performance, who plays Hudson’s character’s daughter. He placed her audition among the best he has witnessed, comparing her talent to renowned actors. Jackman said,
“Ella, I saw her audition. I was like, ‘I think this may be top five acting exhibitions I’ve ever seen,”
and added,
“This is Daniel Day-Lewis, Mery Streep. This is extraordinary. That’s a teenager with roiling emotions, then she somehow becomes the adult in the room.”
Insights into the Film’s Bonus Material
The Song Sung Blue special features include several extended performances such as “Crunchy Granola Suite” and “Sweet Caroline.” There are also behind-the-scenes looks like “One Plus One Equals Three,” where Jackman and Hudson reflect on their characters’ complex relationship and chemistry. Other features explore the making of the film, with writer and director Craig Brewer sharing his vision in “Lightning in the Bottle,” while costume designer Ernesto Martinez discusses how costumes contribute to storytelling in “Eye for Style.” Additionally, there is a commentary track featuring Brewer.
Film Background and Cast Details
The film was written and directed by Craig Brewer, who co-produced alongside John Davis and John Fox. Song Sung Blue is adapted from Greg Kohs’ 2008 documentary of the same name. The ensemble cast includes Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess as Jackman’s character’s daughter, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi. The movie’s executive producers are Erika Hampson and Greg Kohs.
The Impact and Future of Song Sung Blue
Jackman’s commendation of Anderson’s talent brings attention to the film’s emphasis on strong performances amid its portrayal of a struggling family in the music world. With its release on multiple platforms, Song Sung Blue offers audiences both a dramatic narrative and a tribute to Neil Diamond’s legacy. The bonus features enrich the viewing experience by providing deeper context around the characters’ relationships and the film’s creation, setting expectations for a lasting impression on fans of music-driven stories.
