Rating of
3/4
A Star is Born - Review
Matthew Brady - wrote on 02/25/19
"Maybe it's time to let the old ways die."
'A Star Is Born' is a depressing look on love, drugs and rock n roll, but will occasionally stumble into some cliche moments with the main message shooting itself in the foot. I mean, the whole "if you’re talented, but don’t have anything to say", which is just this movie. Nothing new is said at all. However, as soon as the credits rolled, I was left speechless. A mishmash of emotions that left me drained.
Bradley Cooper is absolutely excellent as the talented, yet deeply troubled Jack. Every time Cooper is on screen, I really bought him as the alcoholic rock star. The way he carries himself throughout with his mumble speech was totally believable. I don't know what’s more impressive: This is Cooper’s directorial debut or his singing voice...maybe both.
Lady Gaga is also really great and finally shows off her acting chops, something that her previous roles failed to do. While some of her line delivery was a bit unnatural, but I thought she’s terrific during the dramatic aspects. And of course her singing voice is dynamic.
Sam Elliott, on the other hand, absolutely broke me and his screen time is very slim. Without spoiling anything, there’s a scene involving him reversing his car and we get a close up shot on Elliott’s face, with no dialogue and music, just his reaction. It’s some of the best acting.
The sound design is incredibly detailed, especially during the concert scenes. The songs itself are really good and you can understand why within this story it made them stars. Although the editing is a bit clunky at times and the directing isn't anything too special. The movie can get a little bit predictable, because it almost follows the Oscar bait formula, but didn’t distract my emotional investment .
Overall rating: Out of all the movies nominated this year at the Oscars that I thought are either bland or straight up bad - this is probably my third favorite with the others being 'The Favorite' and 'Roma'.
*me to Bradley Cooper* "I just wanted to take another look at you."
