“Elton John: Never Too Late” is an affectionate tribute to a musical legend who has been a defining voice in pop culture for over five decades, and it is a slam dunk for fans of the extravagant piano man. While much of Sir Elton John’s life story is already familiar to his ardent devotees, from his rise to fame, his battles with addiction, to his eventual sobriety and personal happiness as a family man, this documentary still manages to feel like a fresh, intimate look at a man whose music has touched millions. It’s a puff piece with substance, and I loved every minute.
Directed by R.J. Cutler and Elton’s husband, David Furnish, the film weaves together rare archival footage, hand-written journals, and never-before-seen concert clips that encompass Elton’s decades-spanning career. The documentary begins at one of the most iconic moments of his life: his 1975 Dodger Stadium concerts where he performed for over 100,000 fans. But instead of focusing solely on this high point, the film balances the glittering highs with the inner turmoil Elton was facing. It’s a glimpse that offers deeper insights into the human being behind the larger-than-life persona.
While the documentary doesn’t introduce a lot of groundbreaking new information, it’s the vivid visual storytelling and personal reflections that make it a joy to watch. Elton, in his current reflective stage of life, candidly discusses the struggles and demons that haunted him during his early years of fame. There’s a rawness and sincerity in these interviews that make them particularly impactful, as Elton contemplates not just his legacy as an artist, but as a husband, father, and advocate.
The documentary also takes fans along for Elton’s grand finale, the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, which feels especially poignant as he approaches the end of his live performance career. I was fortunate enough to see a show on this tour and while his voice may not be as strong as it once was, the passion and energy he brings to the stage remain unparalleled. All of this is a beautiful reminder of just how much his music, from “Tiny Dancer” and “Rocket Man” to “Your Song” and “I’m Still Standing,” has shaped modern pop music.
The heart of the film isn’t in Elton’s professional triumphs but in his personal victories. It’s the story of a man who has faced unimaginable highs and lows, from loneliness and addiction to finding enduring love and family with Furnish and their children. This part of the story, told with tenderness and vulnerability, makes the film more than just a celebration of his music: it’s a reflection on resilience and the joy of finding peace after the storm.
For fans, “Elton John: Never Too Late” is an absolute treat. The documentary serve as both a nostalgic trip through Elton’s greatest hits and a celebration of his lasting impact on music and culture. For those less familiar with his work, it’s an engaging introduction to a man who has lived a life as colorful as the costumes he wears on stage. Whether you’ve followed Elton’s career from the beginning or are just discovering his magic, this documentary is a reminder that it’s never too late to reflect, to reinvent, and to celebrate the journey.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 