A Star Is Born film review | Entertainment

Oscar-nominated actor Bradley Cooper makes his directorial debut with this remake of the classic 1937 musical, starring alongside Lady Gaga. As alcoholism and age slowly sink his own career, movie star musician Jackson Maine (Cooper) helps a younger actor-singer (Lady Gaga) jump-start her own path to fame.

This is the third remake of William A. Wellman’s Oscar winner, the first being the 1954 Judy Garland version and the second starred Barbra Streisand in Frank Pierson’s 1976 take.

Directed by Bradley Cooper (feature debut)

Starring Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper, Sam Elliott, Dave Chappelle, Anthony Ramos, Bonnie Somerville, Andrew Dice Clay, Michael Harney

Written by Bradley Cooper, Will Fetters, Eric Roth (based on the 1937 film of the same name)

So, what’d we think?

Judy Garland’s version of A Star Is Born has long been a favourite of mine, so I’ll admit that I was a little sceptical when I heard that Hollywood was churning out yet another remake (even though sexy Bradley Cooper was directing and starring). When the teaser trailer came out, I have to say I was completely in awe of the heart and the talent that leaped out of that small clip and became just as excited as everyone else to see this movie.

So did it live up to the hype?

Well, let me just say that if you need anything, I’ll be sitting in a corner listening to the soundtrack on repeat and crying over how perfectly raw and heart-breaking this film is.

Cooper’s directional debut is a revelation that follows two artists as they fall in love, achieve their dreams and deal with the deeply complex parts of being human. It’s 2 hours and 20 minutes of purely intimate entertainment that gives you all the feels and leaves you with an impulse to reacquaint yourself with the talents of Lady Gaga.

The film follows rock star Jackson ‘Jack’ Maine (Cooper), a big shot musician with legendary status who is battling a number of addictions; namely alcohol. Jack meets waitress Ally (Lady Gaga) on a whim at a local drag bar where he is immediately taken by her talent after a flawless rendition of La Vie En Rose. The two head out for a drink where sparks fly and the stereotype of the machismo rock star is flipped on its head after Ally punches a cop. It’s fiery and flirty. The chemistry is palpable and that initial fire is further fuelled when Jack realises that Ally is an exceptional songwriter. Attracted to her beauty and her talent, Jack takes Ally out on tour with him where her light shines brighter than anyone could have expected.

Gaga and Cooper are phenomenal together. This duo, that seems so strangely matched on paper, brilliantly bring to life these two characters that thrive off one another’s energy to a mix of romantic and tragic ends. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, but thanks to some carefully executed human moments, you can’t help but be drawn into their relationship over and over again.

Now, let’s talk music

A musical that doesn’t give you those OTT musical vibes (thankfully), A Star Is Born features one of the best soundtracks I’ve heard as of late.

Featuring songs penned by Gaga, Cooper and a range of talented musos, every song on this album fits seamlessly into the film and feels very raw and emotive on a relatable level.

The entire soundtrack became a Spotify staple before I’d even taken my car out of park and I’m one-day closer to breaking the replay button.

My favourite songs from the soundtrack:

Shallow
Always Remember Us This Way
Maybe It’s Time
I’ll Never Love Again
Heal Me

But, should you see it?

100% yes. This is the movie that you need to see. There is no exception.

A truly gripping and emotional love story, A Star Is Born uses the undeniable chemistry between Cooper and Gaga, a beautiful soundtrack and some painfully honest moments of humanity to string together a near perfect film.

Are you going to be seeing this movie?

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Written by Monique Renee

Usually barefoot and deep in wanderlust mode, Mon loves binging Netflix, cuddling babies and stalking through Instagram looking for boho decor inspo and hotties with man buns. You’ll usually find her on holiday, planning a holiday or thinking about holidays.

Favourite Instagram to follow: @hotdudesreading