Queen is one of the greatest rock and roll bands in modern music history and Freddie Mercury is without a doubt one of the top five vocalists that music fans have ever heard.
The new film, Bohemian Rhapsody, follows the rise of and near fall of the band and their charismatic front man, Freddie Mercury (Rami Malek). As they climb to the heights of success with their iconic and revolutionary songs, there are troubles behind the scenes. Freddie is gay, but is unable to accept that part of who he is, at least for part of the film. Though he loves Mary Austin (Lucy Boynton), they both come to accept that their relationship will never be a traditional relationship. While this is happening, Freddie is falling to the dark side, led by Paul Prenter (Allen Leech). The band nearly breaks up, until they join the lineup for Live Aid, forever cementing Queen as one of the respected rock bands in history.
Someone who saw the film before I did said that it is best viewed as a concert film and not as a traditional biopic. I agree with that perspective. Though it could be viewed as a traditional biopic, some biopics are rather boring and predictable. This film is neither. Much of the kudos goes to the film’s leading man. While another actor might have simply played the role, Rami Malek inhabits Freddie’s skin. It’s as if Freddie is still alive, instead of being alive in our collective memories.
I absolutely recommend it.
Bohemian Rhapsody is presently in theaters.
Writergurlny 