Queen are being tipped to top the Christmas music charts by bookies, on the back of the renewed interest in the band expected to be created by the recent release of the new movie “Bohemian Rhapsody”. The British rock music legends have been installed in pole position to become the UK’s festive favourite yet again by Ladbrokes this week.
As ever there will be plenty of challengers for the prestigious crown, with stiff competition likely to come from the likes of Ed Sheeran, American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift and top crooner Michael Buble. Not to mention the expected annual challenge from the winner of this year’s “X-Factor”, which should benefit from the involvement of Robbie Williams on the show this time around.
Timely release of new biopic
With musicals and films such as the Oscar-tipped “A Star Is Born” proving popular with theatre and cinema-goers in recent times, the release of “Bohemian Rhapsody” seems timely. Unsurprisingly though, Rami Malek (“Mr. Robot”) has admitted some trepidation in portraying the role of Freddie Mercury in the biographical drama, given the icon status bestowed on the late, great lead singer with the supergroup.
“Night at the Museum” success
Malek is not short of his own admirers though, having previously bagged a Golden Globe Award for “Mr. Robot” and avid cinema-goers may also remember his supporting role as the Pharaoh Ahkmenrah in the hugely popular “Night at the Museum” comedy Film series, alongside Ben Stiller and the late Robin Williams.
Star billing at “Live Aid”
“Bohemian Rhapsody” focusses on the colourful life of frontman Mercury in the run up to Queen’s “Live Aid” performance in 1985 at Wembley Stadium. It was able to tap into the knowledge and insight of band members Roger Taylor and Brian May, who acted as creative consultants on the film. Viewers can expect to hear many of their Queen favourites crammed into 134 minutes of musical nostalgia and memories.
Troubled production
Despite a troubled history during the making of the Queen film, with disputes and walk-outs plaguing its production, the final version has Bryan Singer credited as sole director. Dexter Fletcher stepped in to ultimately complete the film after Singer clashed with the cast and crew and was fired, but Directors Guild of America guidelines dictate that Singer’s involvement is reflected in the credits.
Impressive supporting cast
Malek’s portrayal seems to have generally been well-received by critics and he is backed up by an impressive supporting cast including Tom Hardy as the band’s drummer Taylor, Joseph Mazzello as bass player John Deacon and Gwilym Lee as May, their lead guitarist. Other notable cast members include Tom Hollander, the evergreen Mike Myers and Lucy Boynton as Mary Austin, Mercury’s former girlfriend and lifelong friend.
