Cramming the illustrious career of Elton John into a documentary that spans under two hours in length may seem a fool’s errand, but directors R.J. Cutler and David Furnish are more than up for the task. Leading up to Elton’s final performance in America—where it all started for him at Dodger Stadium—the acclaimed musician reflects on his life’s journey with a level of maturity that only time can bring. Being a Disney+ exclusive, Elton John: Never Too Late does tend to move rather quickly, and oftentimes recall events from only a surface level without digging deeper. Still, for fans of Elton’s music, this documentary may be a godsend. Each tour stop unlocks another part of Elton’s story, helping to form a complete picture of the legend. Forming a wonderful narrative through the words of Elton John himself, vintage concert footage, and colorful animated segments, Never Too Late provides a touching snapshot of a timeless crocodile rock legacy.
Being pulled from conversations that Elton had in preparation of writing his own memoir, Never Too Late manages to feel personal in a way that few documentaries are able to accomplish. The bulk directly lifts his words to form a complete whole. Being a major fan of biopic musical Rocketman, I was mesmerized to hear some of the same events recalled through the eyes of its subject. As such, there are not a whole lot of surprises to be found for those even mildly familiar with the ups and downs of John’s career. The most compelling element lies in John’s approach to this recounting as he inches towards an end of the road. He appears contemplative and reflective, taking careful measure in some of the more tumultuous speed bumps on his journey to fame. Elton’s kind nature means that even his incredibly toxic first boyfriend-turned-manager, John Reid, receives a nicer than expected bit of highlighting.
Cutler and Furnish, the latter of which is Elton’s husband, follow the trajectory of Elton’s life from the beginning, celebrating some of his early inspirations and a difficult upbringing. His abusive parents did him no favors, but Elton still managed to find solace in music, especially the piano. Influenced by rock and roll and inspired by the Beatles, he started performing in pubs as a teenager. Legally changing his name from Reginald Dwight to Elton John helped to carve out a new identity separate from his awful parents. Interestingly enough, Elton never outright shit-talks either of them, instead opting for an honest reflection and a lament that they did not have a stronger relationship. By way of the documentary’s structure, it quickly brushes over the home life to focus almost exclusively on the golden years between 1970-1975. During this time, Elton (somehow) released thirteen albums, no doubt thanks to his inseparable bond with writing partner Bernie Taupin.
On speaking of his relationship with Bernie, there is a clear platonic love for his creative partner, a decades-spanning bond that would transcend any previously held by Elton. The documentary soars when it gets to the biggest moments, and some behind the scenes glimpses into the recording and performing of Elton’s most iconic tunes. Despite initial struggles, Elton’s big break came with a 1970 performance at The Troubadour. The hit “Your Song” propelled him to fame, exploding at just the right time in America. The film highlights Elton’s collaborative spirit; thankfully, it does not forget to mention the extravagant costumes, many designed by Bob Mackie, which became an essential element in his vibrant stage persona.
Eventually, heartbreak led Elton into intense drug use and creative burnout. The manner in which he was introduced to cocaine was probably a similar story that many in the industry also share. Initially disgusted, the cocaine actually helped him become more social, even if it was destructive to his creative process. Elton speaks candidly about struggles with addiction, and the toll fame took on him personally and professionally. Elton’s eventual recovery at age forty-three marks a significant turning point in his life. With a career spanning over fifty years and culminating with his wide-reaching final tour, Elton reflects on mortality and legacy. Touching FaceTime moments with his two sons and an enduring partnership with his husband, David, show a glimpse into the man behind the tunes. As someone who had the honor of seeing Elton on that final tour—at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey—it was incredibly cathartic to hear how deeply appreciate Elton was for his fans and support throughout the many years of his time touring all over the world.
As mentioned before, only fans of Elton John need apply, and ironically those very same fans probably know at least the general facts of his life’s story. The charming animated sequences are only minimally used. Still, die-hards probably have not heard Elton speak fondly about the time he got to perform with John Lennon at Madison Square Garden, or know of his podcast highlighting new artists, or have been given such an intimate glimpse into Elton’s creative process. Rocketman deeply burrows into the darkest corners to nakedly dissect Elton John as a person, and I cannot recommend it enough. Elton John: Never Too Late is the perfect companion piece, a sugary-sweet collection of memories that puts into perspective the worldview of one of the most influential musicians of all time.
Walk down the yellowbrick road of memory lane with Elton John: Never Too Late, coming to Disney+ on Friday, December 13th.
