A Star Is Born (2018) - Review

Promotional Image for A Star Is Born featuring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga.

A Triumphant Outing. A star is truly born for cinema. 

A Star is Born starring Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga was initially met with apprehension upon its announcement, but upon its release, acclaim by viewers and critics alike has been overwhelming. Cooper's directorial debut was a real and refreshing addition for Hollywood film.

Gaga has already shown her acting capabilities in American Horror Story: Hotel in which she received a Golden Globe for her role as The Countess. Her impressive acting ability continued into her role as Ally in A Star Is Born. Gaga delivered a very pure and raw performance that encompassed the harsh realities of the music industry and their toll on wannabe performers. Not only was she a delight to watch, her musical ability proved why she is one of the biggest stars in the World. I know Gaga is an advocate for singing live and never relying on lip-syncing so it was to no surprise that she apparently performed each song live for the film. The cinema is perfect for watching a film of this genre as it allows the sound to touch you in a way it never cold outside of those four walls. This made for an epic and emotional movie that leaves you flustered and tearful each time a song plays.

Although Gaga was beyond wonderful, Cooper's very real and poignant performance also astounded. Cooper gave a very authentic story to his character who dealt with drink/drug addiction throughout. It's such a common issue in today's society that a big-screen representation of this issue was long-awaited. If Cooper fails to win awards for his directing, his acting should also be commemorated.

Two terrific performances made for a very realistic and genuine relationship that felt so natural so any problems they faced hit the audience where it hurt. From the get-go, we are routing for these two and that is what carries the film.

Gaga and Cooper filming an early scene in A Star Is Born.

Cooper made his debut as a director and it was a very impressive start. He doesn't rely on impressive shots and camera trickery to make a nice visual, he just lets the camera roll and performs. A brilliant moment of acting can leave a director just moving around them and it will work, and this film does that perfectly. The on-stage shots build a tension and beauty as if you're experiencing it as well as those in the film which is what cinema should do - put the audience in the production. Cooper deserves recognition for this masterpiece.

For a musical, the music doesn't appear to be the focal point. The music is just a much-needed break from intense drama in order to allow a new load of sensations. The balance is incredible as it does not rely on music to carry the film which is a very easy trap to fall into. Obviously, tears are shed and the music does really force them out, but 'Shallow' will more than likely be remembered for years to come.

All in all, A Star Is Born lives up to its acclaim. If you are viewing with your expectations set at any more than an intense romance, it may not hit the spot, but it will always be an impressive feature regardless.

SCORE - 10/10