One of the best films of 2018 was Bohemian Rhapsody which has already earned itself two Golden Globe’s for ‘Best Motion Picture’ and ‘Best Actor’ and is nominated in five different categories at the 2019 Academy Awards including ‘Best Picture’ and ‘Best Actor’.
In this epic biographical film, Rami Malek plays Freddie Mercury, the charismatic lead singer of Queen, arguably one of the greatest pop-rock bands of the 20th Century.
Freddie Mercury sang with the band from 1970 until his untimely death in 1991, the film also deals with his struggles with his personal life and sexuality.
The story begins in 1970 when Farrokh “Freddie” Bulsara, an Indian-British Parsi, art student and baggage handler at Heathrow Airport, attends a gig by a college band called Smile. Outside, he meets drummer, Roger Taylor, and guitarist Brian May after their performance.
Learning that the lead singer has just quit, Freddie offers himself as a replacement and demonstrates his vocal ability and Queen are born! The story continues through their music careers and personal relationship, which was often tested by Freddie’s dominant and flamboyant personality.
In 1975, Queen record the album, ‘A Night at the Opera’, with of course the classic song, “Bohemian Rhapsody”, which grew to became one of the greatest records ever made, despite doubts from their record company.
For me, the defying moment of this film came in 1985 at Wembley Stadium in London when Freddie, (having been diagnosed with the then deadly HIV/AIDS disease), takes to the stage with the band at the charity concert, Live Aid, and performs “Radio Ga Ga”, but don’t worry folks no spoilers!
With the film nominated in five categories at this year’s Oscars, particularly in the category for ‘Best Actor’ for Rami Malek, it is sure to win take home the Oscar!