Elton John: Never Too Late” Documentary Chronicles a Storied Career

A new documentary titled Elton John: Never Too Late is generating buzz for its vivid portrayal of the legendary singer’s career. Set to premiere on Disney+ on December 13, 2024, the film is crammed with compelling vintage footage of Elton John during his 1970s heyday, when he dazzled audiences worldwide with his flamboyant performances and prolific musical output.

The documentary highlights an iconic moment from 1975, showcasing John in a glittery baseball outfit, performing at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles for over 100,000 fans. The concert footage, paired with enthusiastic musical soundscapes, paints a dynamic picture of his early career zenith. However, despite the jubilant atmosphere captured in the archival footage, the documentary interweaves a reflective narrative voiced by the musician at 77. Elton John is heard saying, “There was an emptiness within me. My soul had gone dark … It was like I was dead,” injecting a somber tone into what appears to be a career celebration.

The film, co-directed by R.J. Cutler and John’s husband David Furnish, aims to encapsulate Elton’s explosive rise to fame within a backdrop of personal struggles. The documentary uses a modern storytelling approach, employing a mix of vintage media, animation, and historical photographs to capture anecdotes from John’s life, such as his first cocaine binge and a whimsical depiction of a drug-fueled episode involving John Lennon and Andy Warhol.

While Elton John: Never Too Late revisits familiar territory already chronicled in the singer’s autobiography Me and the biopic Rocketman, this documentary adds a layer of emotional depth uncommon in earlier portrayals. It juxtaposes the lively concerts with John’s candid discussions about his lingering unhappiness despite his monumental success.

John’s relationship with Furnish is also a focal point. Speaking with PEOPLE, Furnish revealed his surprise at John’s initial reluctance towards parenthood, a decision that was later reversed. “I was shocked to hear [John] say in 1976 that he wanted to have children. When I met him in 1993, he didn’t think it was appropriate for him,” Furnish said. However, their mutual commitment changed John’s perspective, leading to their family life with sons Elijah and Zachary.

Co-director Cutler highlighted the enriching collaboration with Furnish, noting that their partnership helped shape the documentary’s focus. “We each brought a central concept of what the movie became,” Cutler stated, acknowledging the blend of touring narratives and career retrospectives.

Elton John: Never Too Late is set for a limited theatrical release in the U.S. and U.K. on November 15, preceding its Disney+ debut. The film promises an intimate look at John’s career, from humble beginnings to global icon, enriched by unseen footage and personal reflections that offer fans a deeper connection to the music legend.