Hollywood star Hugh Jackman visits Milwaukee for 'Song Sung Blue' movie premiere
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Fans braved the cold for hours, lining up outside the Oriental Theatre, just to get a glimpse of the action for the big hometown "Song Sung Blue" movie premiere in Milwaukee Tuesday.
"I couldn’t have a better day, standing in this negative weather, just seeing a beautiful face walk past," said Hugh Jackman fan Scarlett Bamrungratana. "I mean, it doesn’t get any better than this."
Fans from across the state filled the street outside the Oriental Theatre, holding pictures and signs, eager to meet Hollywood superstar and the lead of the film, Hugh Jackman.
"I grew up watching basically everything he's ever done -- Les Mis, the Greatest Showman, so we are really excited to see him," said fan Anna Strange.
Rolling out the blue carpet for the movie premiere in Milwaukee, "Song Sung Blue" tells the story of the Milwaukee-based Neil Diamond cover band 'Lightning and Thunder', who performed in the 90s.
"It's about Milwaukee, the surrounding areas, Wisconsin, Southeastern Wisconsin," said Claire Sardina, singer from Lightning and Thunder. "Let's do Wisconsin proud with this movie."
Claire Sardina, who's portrayed by Kate Hudson in the movie, had family at Tuesday's premiere at the oriental including her big brother.
Jim Stingl, a retired columnist for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says his sister got most of the musical talent in their family and even now, years after the Lightning and Thunder days, Stingl says she has a flair for performing.
A-lister Hugh Jackman spent the day in the Milwaukee area, enjoying all it has to offer.
"It's been thrilling for us to be here," said Jackman. "We've had a great time, and I've eaten more cheese than I ever have in my life."
Jackman says the film captures the heart of the city and showcases the passion and fight of an underdog duo.
"The heart of this city is at the heart of this story," said Jackman. "It's real, everyday people who battle, who struggle, and still have the resilience to dream big, no matter what setbacks they are going through," said Jackman. "I think a lot of people today can relate to that."
The film will be released in theaters this Christmas.