K.T Simpson
Let me preface this review with a brief statement that not everyone is going to agree with me – but that generally covers most reviews, if not all. Sometimes my opinions breed conflict, but I’d prefer they breed discussion of opinions, so let’s all play nice kids.
I read a Freddie Mercury biography not that long ago, and decided that I was likely the reincarnation of the iconic rockstar. Okay – so without the talent bit. Freddie was a complex character, one that oozed confidence and had an on-stage presence that few could compare with. Behind closed doors, however, he was lonely, struggling to find himself in a world where he saw himself as an outcast, and found solace with a number of cats and the one love of his life – Mary Austin – despite being a gay man. Freddie was born Farrokh Bulsara, and despite having a conservative family from Zanzibar, always knew he was a performer: both on stage and in personality.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is much more than just the story of Freddie Mercury, but also the rise of Queen – from their days as “Smile”, playing in small university clubs, to the eventuate climax of the film (and their career) – playing to 100,000 people at Wembley stadium and a billion behind TV screens for the 1985 Live Aid concert, organized by Bob Geldof. But the film does mostly focus on the lead singer, and explores the trials and tribulations of his incredibly interesting life.
Rami Malek plays the iconic performer, and let’s face it – deserves an Oscar for his performance. You’d be forgiven for at times forgetting that you’re not actually watching Freddie Mercury on screen, but rather the “Mr. Robot” actor – who really should be more famous. Gwilym Lee (Brian May), Ben Hardy (Roger Taylor) and Joseph Mazzello (John Deacon) round out the remaining Queen members, and all have incredible presence within the film, despite them ultimately being overshadowed by the name on everybody’s lips: Freddie Mercury.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” sees the formation of the title song, and how a record exec (played by Mike Myers) made a big mistake in passing on releasing it to radio – and ultimately losing Queen. There’s a clever nod to “Wayne’s World” in this scene too – I won’t spoil it but do keep an ear out.
Despite controversy, Bryan Singer remains the sole director’s credit on “Bohemian Rhapsody”, with replacement Dexter Fletcher receiving an Executive Producer credit. Whoever did what, did it really well. There are some fantastic and powerful shots, and despite a little bit of questionable CGI in the Live Aid sequence, the film captures the band in an incredible fashion.
For those who were concerned that the AIDS crisis wouldn’t get addressed – despite it being important and also the reason Freddie ultimately left this world – it does, and in a very respectful manner.
Do you have to be a fan of Queen to enjoy “Bohemian Rhapsody”? No, but really – who isn’t?! Show yourselves! Obviously the reason you go and see a movie about Queen is for the music – and “Bohemian Rhapsody” certainly delivers the goods. If you’re a fan of music, in any sense of the world – do yourself a favour and see this movie.
This is undoubtedly the movie of the year for me. Queen consistently pushed the boundaries of music, and Freddie Mercury pushed the boundaries of a then-largely-conservative world: being true to himself in a culture of being told to reign it in. His story is both poetic and tragic, but his name is one that history will never forget. The film manages to capture all these elements, wrapping it up neatly in one hell of a career defining performance – for not only Queen at Live Aid, but also Malek as Freddie. Bravo, “Bohemian Rhapsody”.
