Based on the real Reginald Dwight/Elton John. While depicting his real rise, struggles with addiction/sexuality, and key relationships, the film uses fantasy sequences and alters chronology for thematic effect.

Bernie Taupin is Elton John's real-life lyricist and close friend. The film's portrayal of their enduring creative partnership and supportive friendship aligns closely with historical accounts.

John Reid was Elton's real manager and lover. The film portrays him negatively, reflecting Elton John's perspective on their difficult relationship; some aspects are dramatized for effect.

Based on Elton's real mother. The portrayal reflects Elton John's documented complicated and often strained relationship with her, though seen through the lens of his recollections.

Based on Elton's real father. The depiction of him as cold and unaccepting aligns with Elton John's descriptions of their difficult father-son relationship.

Ivy was Elton's real maternal grandmother who encouraged his musical pursuits. Her portrayal as a key source of warmth and support in his childhood is consistent with Elton's accounts.

The film depicts Elton John's difficult relationship with his parents, particularly his father. While there's truth to the strained family dynamics, the film takes some dramatic liberties and simplifies certain aspects of his upbringing.

The film accurately portrays Elton John's prodigious musical talent and his formal training at the Royal Academy of Music. His early musical development is a key part of his story and is well-represented.

The film highlights the crucial collaboration between Elton John and Bernie Taupin, his longtime lyricist. Their songwriting partnership is a central element of the story and is portrayed accurately.

The film depicts Elton John's early performances and his rapid rise to fame, but it takes some creative liberties with the timeline and specific events.

The film accurately portrays Elton John's flamboyant stage persona and his extravagant costumes, which became a hallmark of his performances. This aspect of his career is a key part of his identity and is well-represented in the film.

The film honestly depicts Elton John's struggles with substance abuse, including drugs and alcohol. This is a significant part of his life story.

The film portrays Elton John's complex relationship with his manager and lover, John Reid. While the film captures some aspects of their dynamic, it simplifies their relationship and takes some dramatic liberties.

The film explores Elton John's journey of self-discovery and his acceptance of his sexuality. This is a personal and important part of his life story.

The film includes his band members, but their roles are often secondary to the focus on Elton John. Their individual contributions and dynamics within the band are not fully explored.

The film does a good job of recreating Elton John's energetic and captivating concert performances, capturing his stage presence and connection with the audience. The concert scenes are a highlight of the film.

The film explores the challenges and pressures that come with fame and success in the music industry, including the toll it can take on personal relationships and mental health.

The film portrays Elton John's eventual journey to sobriety and recovery from addiction. This is a crucial turning point in his life. The specifics of his recovery are condensed, but the overall theme is accurate.

The film suggests some of Elton John's early musical influences, but it simplifies the complex range of artists and genres that shaped his musical development. His influences are more diverse than the film explicitly states.