Netflix Quietly Adds Oscar-Nominated Musical Drama Based on a Beloved Neil Diamond Tribute Act

Following a short stint on Peacock, the Oscar-nominated Song Sung Blue (2025) will be singing and dancing its way over to Netflix U.S. next month.

Per its official logline, Song Sung Blue, "Based on an incredible true story, Mike (Hugh Jackman) and Claire (Kate Hudson) are two down-on-their-luck musicians who prove that it's never too late to find love and follow your dreams. They form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning and Thunder, rising from a humble garage to dive bar gigs to unexpected hometown stardom. When tragedy strikes, their love for each other and passion for music give them the strength to overcome hardships, rediscover hope, and inspire everyone around them."

The biographical film is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name, following the life and love of Mike and Claire Sardina, two local performers who, through a shared admiration for Neil Diamond, formed a musical sensation that became renowned across the country, performing for major musical acts such as Pearl Jam and performing at Summerfest.

Kate Hudson was nominated for the Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Golden Globe, and SAG Actor Award for Best Actress for her role as Claire Sardina in the '90s period drama. The film's glittering ensemble cast also includes Michael Imperioli (The Sopranos, Goodfellas), Ella Anderson (Henry Danger, The Boss), King Princess (Bottoms, Crush), Mustafa Shakir (Luke Cage, Cowboy Bebop), Hudson Hensley (The Wildman of Shaggy Creek), Fisher Stevens (Succession, Friends), and Jim Belushi (Saturday Night Live, Trading Places).

Song Sung Blue also features some shining examples of Neil Diamond's vast discography in its soundtrack, from the biggest hits to hidden gems, such as "Forever in Blue Jeans," "Crunchy Granola Suite," "I've Been This Way Before," "Cherry, Cherry," "Song Sung Blue," and of course, "Sweet Caroline."

Song Sung Blue arrives on Netflix on June 13.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published May 19, 2026 at 5:03 PM.