Where to Watch Elton John: Never Too Late: The 2024 Farewell Tour Documentary

Elton John: Never Too Late is a 2024 documentary co-directed by R.J. Cutler and David Furnish, and it takes viewers on an intimate journey through the life of music legend Elton John. With exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour and rare archival clips, the film offers fans a chance to witness Elton’s reflections on his monumental career and his final tour stops. Produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Rocket Entertainment, Never Too Late captures the highs and lows of his incredible journey, merging the public and personal sides of one of music's most beloved icons.

Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024, the documentary has since captivated audiences with its limited theatrical release in the U.S. and U.K. and will soon be available for streaming on Disney+ from December 13, 2024.

An Intimate, Unfiltered Look at Elton's Legacy

The documentary opens with Elton John's 1975 performance at Dodger Stadium, a landmark moment in rock history, and revisits this iconic venue nearly 50 years later for his final North American show in 2022. Through new interviews, archival concert footage, and candid conversations, directors Cutler and Furnish—who is also Elton's husband—aim to reveal not just the public persona but the man behind the music. The film draws on Elton’s personal journals, family moments, and the close connections he shares with his band and collaborators.

Elton John: Never Too Late explores everything from his early musical inspirations to his challenging relationships and his hard-won battles with addiction and self-acceptance. Elton's reflections on mortality, love, and legacy provide poignant insights that add depth to the film, making it more than just a concert documentary; it’s a personal journey of self-reflection.

Production and Vision

The project, originally titled Goodbye Yellow Brick Road: The Final Elton John Performances and the Years That Made His Legend, was announced in 2022 when Disney acquired its rights for a reported $30 million. Cutler, known for his work on The September Issue and Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry, brings his expertise in capturing cultural icons, while Furnish offers unique insights into Elton’s personal life.

Shot across various locations on Elton’s tour, the film juxtaposes historical footage with modern-day moments, blending 1970s glam-rock scenes with 2022 performances. These sequences are woven together to illustrate the profound changes in both Elton’s life and his musical journey, as he reconciles his past with his present.

Reception and Critical Response

Elton John: Never Too Late received a warm reception at TIFF, where audiences and critics praised its heartfelt exploration of the singer's life. However, reviews have been somewhat mixed. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 71% rating, and Metacritic scores it at 60, indicating a “mixed or average” reception. Some critics feel the documentary is too controlled, with select scenes that paint only Elton’s positive moments, while others appreciate the glimpse into his family life and personal reflections.

Despite some reservations, the film resonates deeply with longtime fans, showcasing touching interactions with his children, archival footage of his early days at the Troubadour, and the iconic 1975 Dodger Stadium performance.

Release and Where to Watch

Following its world premiere at TIFF, Never Too Late had a limited theatrical release on November 15, 2024, in the U.S. and U.K. The documentary will be available for streaming on Disney+ starting December 13, 2024, making it accessible to a global audience eager to delve deeper into Elton’s final chapter on stage.

An Ode to a Music Legend

While Elton John: Never Too Late may not unveil brand-new revelations, it remains a fitting tribute to a beloved artist who has touched millions. By blending Elton’s music, history, and personal reflections, the film captures the essence of a performer who has spent over 50 years enchanting audiences. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone exploring his story for the first time, this documentary provides an engaging, heartfelt look at a man who’s truly “still standing.”

As Elton bids farewell to the stage, this film celebrates his legacy, reminding us that, even as he steps away from the spotlight, his impact on music and culture endures.

1. Where can I stream Elton John: Never Too Late?
   Starting December 13, 2024, Elton John: Never Too Late will be available to stream on Disney+ after its limited theatrical release.
2. Is Elton John: Never Too Late on Netflix or Amazon Prime?
   No, the documentary will be exclusively available on Disney+ for streaming.
3. What is Elton John: Never Too Late about?
   The documentary follows Elton John's Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, blending live performances with archival footage and personal reflections, offering an intimate glimpse into his life and career.
4. When did Elton John: Never Too Late premiere?
   The film premiered on September 6, 2024, at the Toronto International Film Festival, and received positive responses for its heartfelt storytelling.
5. Who directed Elton John: Never Too Late?
   The documentary was directed by R.J. Cutler, known for Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry, and David Furnish, Elton John's husband and frequent collaborator.
6. Does Elton John: Never Too Late include rare footage?
   Yes, the film features rare archival footage, excerpts from Elton’s personal journals, and glimpses into his family life, adding a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective.
7. Is the documentary a full biography of Elton John?
   While it covers much of Elton's life, Never Too Late primarily focuses on his final tour, reflecting on his career’s highlights, challenges, and growth.
8. How long is Elton John: Never Too Late?
   The documentary runs approximately 120 minutes, covering both concert footage and personal insights.
9. Does the film include interviews with other musicians?
   While Never Too Late is centered on Elton, it includes reflections from key collaborators and archival insights from people in his life.
10. Is Elton John: Never Too Late family-friendly?
    Yes, the film is suitable for general audiences, making it a great watch for Elton John fans of all ages.
11. Will Elton John: Never Too Late cover his entire career?
    While it touches on career milestones, the film largely centers on his final tour, offering glimpses into his past rather than a full biography.
12. What songs are featured in Elton John: Never Too Late?
    The documentary includes iconic songs like "Rocket Man," "Your Song," and "I'm Still Standing," with some partial performances from his Dodger Stadium concert.