Rocket Pictures CEO Steve Hamilton Shaw explains the selection, "Michael has an innovative, imaginative and compelling vision for the film. We want to create an experience that surprises and moves audiences and knew immediately that he was the perfect director to take them on this journey."

Gracey adds "Everyone knows and loves Elton John's music, but the true story of his life is so incredible that it can only be described as a fantasy.

"His journey from impossible dreamer to stardom and uncontrollable excess is something only a musical film can capture, and I'm so excited to be the one to tell his story."