Rocketman behind-the-scenes video reveals why it was a dream project
The film follows Elton John's life
It's only been in cinemas for a few weeks, but Rocketman, the biopic film about the music icon Elton John has been an instant hit with fans and cinema-goers alike. Now, the studio behind the film's release have dropped a behind-the-scenes video and although short, it gives an insight into what it was like working on such a big film.
Speaking in the video, Elton John, who was the executive producer describes how he wanted the film to be, with his husband David Furnish, who was a producer, saying, "What differentiates Rocketman from traditional biopics is the fantasy element."
In the behind-the-scenes video viewers get a chance to see how some of the 'floating' concert shots are filmed, where Elton, played by Taron Egerton is suspended in the air as he plays the piano.
The film's choreographer, Adam Murray, also explains how Rocketman was a dream project to work on, as there were sequences with 150-200 dancers, explaining that because they step out of the realms of reality the opportunities are "endless".
Rocketman actor Taron Egerton also reveals how he really pushed to sing the performance pieces live, something which he has later showcased for fans when he performed at the Cannes Film Festival in France, and at Elton's own gig on his 'Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour', in Hove.
Elton and Taron performed 'Your Song' in front of a packed Sussex Cricket Club last weekend, with Elton later tweeting a photo of Taron kissing him on the cheek.
Rocketman is now in cinemas and has become very popular with fans, the film is a musical fantasy about Elton John's breakthrough years as he transforms from a shy piano prodigy Reginald Dwight, into international superstar Elton John.
Now take a look at who is in the cast of Rocketman:
Taron Egerton as Elton John
Welsh actor Taron Egerton played Elton John in the film about his life. Luckily, Taron is already an accomplished singer, so didn't need a lot of coaching on that aspect of taking on the role.
He's best known for his role as Gary "Eggsy" Unwin in both Kingsman and its sequel, The Golden Circle. He also had a role in Legend opposite Tom Hardy, and played the titular character in Eddie the Eagle opposite Hugh Jackman.
Jamie Bell as Bernie Taupin
Jamie Bell stars in the film as Bernie Taupin, Elton's songwriting partner. After meeting in 1967, the pair have now worked together on more than 30 albums.
Of course, film fans will recognise Jamie as the titular role in Billy Elliot, a film he starred in at the age of just 13. He also starred in 2005's King Kong, The Adventures of Tintin and Fantastic Four.
Richard Madden as John Reid
Richard Madden portrays Elton's long-time music manager and former lover, John Reid. Not only did he manage Elton for over 20 years, but he also spent three years looking after Queen in their early days.
Richard is known for his role as Sgt David Budd in Bodyguard, but rose to prominence after starring as Robb Stark in internationally-acclaimed TV series, Game Of Thrones. He has also had a career in theatre.
Bryce Dallas Howard as Sheila Eileen
Bryce Dallas Howard plays the role of Elton's mum, Sheila Eileen. Although she and Elton did not get on for a long time, they reconciled towards the end of her life, and she was a big part of his Christmas advert for M&S in 2018.
Bryce herself has the film industry in her blood, as she's the daughter of prolific film director Ron Howard. Although she's had many roles, she's known for playing Claire Dearing in the new Jurassic World reboot film series opposite Chris Pratt.
Stephen Graham as Dick James
Stephen Graham portrays Dick James in the film, a British music publisher who signed Elton to his label and encouraged him to use a stage name.
Fans of This Is England will recognise Stephen as Andrew "Combo" Gascoigne, but many others may know him as Tommy from 2000 film Snatch. He also joined the cast of Line Of Duty for the fifth series.
Gemma Jones as Ivy
Gemma Jones plays Ivy in the film, Elton's grandmother. In fact, it was Ivy's piano that Elton first learned to play on at the age of three. He was partly raised by her along with his mother as his father was away with the RAF.
Gemma has had a long and successful career in acting, and after playing Mrs Dashwood in Sense and Sensibility opposite Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet, starred as Bridget's mum Pam in the film series. She also played nurse Madame Pomfrey in the Harry Potter film franchise.
Tate Donovan as Doug Weston
Tate Donovan plays Doug Weston in Rocketman, the owner of nightclub The Troubadour in Los Angeles, California, which played an important role in making Elton's career a success.
Tate is a rather well-known actor, but younger audiences will recognise him as the voice of Hercules in the 1997 Disney film. Alternatively, Tate was memorable as Rachel Green's boyfriend Joshua in TV series, Friends. He also had a main role in Argo, starring and directed by Ben Affleck.
Despite Elton announcing his retirement from touring last year, he still has another couple of years because his farewell tour finishes.
You can hear songs by Elton John on Greatest Hits Radio.
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