Vertigo

Vertigo
Vertigo

Monday, October 22, 2018

Cooper’s Impressive A STAR IS BORN


Actor Bradley Cooper makes a strong directorial debut with his remake of the classic Hollywood story, A Star Is Born. Not only does he star and co-write the screenplay, but proves an adept singer/songwriter.   


Jackson Maine (Cooper), a superstar singer, discovers Ally (Lady Gaga), a talented singer/writer who languishes in obscurity under superficial makeup until Jack looks deep in her soul.  When the recording industry takes notice and grooms her for stardom, Jack’s personal, family demons catch up to him and drag him to an alcoholic spiral much to Ally’s embarrassment as she celebrates success and accolades.  Through their struggles and pain, all that remains is their bond of love.

Early on, you can tell this film is directed with a sure hand, and it actually elevates to another level in the second half.  Ironically it was slated for director Clint Eastwood, whose collaboration on American Sniper may have benefitted Cooper. Nothing feels phony or forced here, and the sharp screenplay depicts the price of fame and the anguish of addiction and rehab.   


The performances are authentic; Gaga convincingly embodies a yearning artist with vulnerability and strength, and her musical moments particularly in the finale are standouts.  Cooper, a pretty good singer in his own right (who knew?), gives one of his best displays of acting. Sam Elliott has his best role in years as Jack’s older brother.


Major Oscar nominations are likely (especially director Cooper and actress Gaga), and the question is not if it will win Best Song, but rather how many songs will get nominated. With actors Ben Affleck and John Krasinski becoming legitimate directors, Cooper joins their ranks with this labor of love, a bona fide hit.

***1/2 of **** stars (add ½ * for Cooper and Gaga fans)

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