Stardust (1974)

In this satisfying sequel to That’ll Be the Day (1973), David Essex’s character is now a rock star on a steep rise to fame. Initially he’s in a band (played by actors including Keith Moon, Dave Edmunds and Paul Nicholas), but he later becomes a solo star on a path to self-destruction.

It’s highly entertaining. The story is the classic “rise and fall of a rock star”, but it’s handled well. Adam Faith is excellent as Jim MacLaine’s friend and manager, while Larry “J.R.” Hagman is suitably pushy and ruthless as an American manager and businessman. 

David Essex maintains a magnetic presence throughout, whether performing, smiling or – as his fortunes take a downturn – looking increasingly lost. 

The section in which he performs a ludicrous rock opera celebrating womanhood is suitably ponderous and overwrought.