Reporter: Jacob A. Laybolt
Author Rating: 8/10
It appears as though Hollywood is not yet willing to change its current habits as the trend of remakes and reboots continues. 2018’s A Star Is Born marks the fourth attempt at telling the story of a talented but flawed star who falls for a younger protégé. The romantic musical began planning as far back as 2011 with recasting cycles between the script’s trades between various directors (including Clint Eastwood who has previously worked with Cooper) before finally landing on Bradley Cooper who assumed command in 2015, enlisting Lady Gaga soon after to co-star with him. Conveniently enough for the movie, the chemistry between the A-listers seemed all too genuine, as tabloids speculated the bizarrely functional relationship. Cooper, partners with Russian supermodel Irina Shayk since 2015, was surprisingly capable of musical performance through a character that was unique from past roles in a sense of genuity.
Without indulging any major spoilers, the film features the relationship of musicians Ally (Lady Gaga) and Jackson Maine (Bradley Cooper) as they stand the test of love and fame in the music industry which seeks to process them. With the well-trained direction of Cooper supplanted by Gaga’s impeccable vocal abilities, the soundtrack itself is a high-quality production when isolated from the film. While some may expect Cooper to lead the thespian aspects Gaga’s acting capability also makes an astonishing impact on the audience through the film. Interviews with Gaga indicate a high level of emotional dedication to the role which almost makes it seem less like an act, given the post-release heartbreak she has expressed, going so far as to keep multiple props from the set.
Additional cameos and appearances highlight the film via Dave Chapelle, Andrew Dice Clay, Alec Baldwin, and Lukas Nelson. These are only noteworthy when compared to the portrayal of Jackson’s protective older brother, Bobby, portrayed by Sam Elliott who serves as a secondary character with an adequate level of depth and emotion which Elliot exceeds at demonstrating.
The end product is a feature film which only has one major disappointment found in its morally obscure ending, which leaves the audience with a complete story with no real takeaway considering the context of the climactic events.While this film may dispel would be moviegoers due to its romantic and musical focus, the cultural value and quality should not be disregarded, making the film a must for anyone looking to take a trip to the theatres this month(especially considering the alternatives currently showing at venues). Aside from the main performance, the financial performance is perhaps more impressive, provided its box office returns of nearly $330 million, a solid return from its $40 million funding.