There are so many “firsts” on this episode, we’re honestly not sure what to do with ourselves.

Let’s start by telling you (in case you skipped the headline) that we’re reviewing Song Sung Blue, the based-on-a-true-story of real-life Milwaukee couple Mike and Claire Sardina, also known as Lightning & Thunder. Their Neil Diamond tribute act — with occasional departures into ABBA, Patsy Cline and others — played stages around the area for nearly 20 years, eventually catching the attention of writer/director Craig Brewer.

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson came on board his project to play the lead roles, with Jackman in particular embracing it in a huge way. That brings us to our first “first,” which saw the Oriental Theatre host a premiere for Song Sung Blue (reportedly at Jackman’s request) and give us a chance to attend our very first Hollywood-ish event.

In addition to Dori, Radio Milwaukee social media strategist Zoey Knox elbowed her way to the edge of the red carpet, which was appropriately blue for the occasion. So of course we invited Zoey for her first Cinebuds appearance to share her thoughts on the movie, as well as what it was like for her and Dori to interview (sort of) the one and only Hugh Jackman!!!

You’ll hear that admittedly brief but still wonderful chat in the full episode, which also includes our hosts’ reaction to this very Milwaukee tale. Some quick highlights: Hudson really nails her portrayal of Claire Sardina, she and Jackman clearly have legit singing chops, and the general uplifting-ness of the story make this a perfect release for the holiday season.

Get all of the details in this episode, and make sure you check in with us after the holiday break for another perspective on Song Sung Blue from filmmaker Jimmy Sammarco, whose 2008 documentary of the same name was instrumental to the biopic hitting theaters this Christmas.

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Cinebuds is sponsored by Joe Wilde Garage Door Company.