Fourth rendition of the famous story of the rise and fall of fame. Famous musician played by Bradley Cooper falls for starving artist played by Lady Gaga. He pulls her into the spotlight and her rise begins as he falls.

Year 2018

Directed by Bradley Cooper

Stars Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, and Sam Elliot

How can you tell when a movie is done well? Ask yourself, do you believe the story in front of you. Do you see characters and not actors? Are you enthralled to find out what happens next? As for my opinion, this movie was done well. Bradley Cooper struck gold for his directorial and writing debut. I am bias, in the fact that I have not seen the past versions of this story. I am told though that this version holds its own.

Things that impressed me: This movie was full of live performances. Nothing to my knowledge was lip synced. That is a difficult thing to do for a film production. It takes a lot to herd a live audience as well, which they have to do for several scenes. Another thing is Gaga’s ability to act like a plain old girl who has talent and not a phenomenon. Sure, every time she opens her mouth I get goosebumps, but her acting ability made me believe in her character. She is deserving of this role in every aspect. She played it well. Cooper was right on the money too. He practiced everyday training his voice to be “Sam Elliot quality”. I don’t see the kid who played in The Hangover or even in Silver Linings Playbook. He was showing his very best here. I heard that he followed bands and artists like Eddie Vedder to get a feel for the life. That is dedication.

Beyond all I felt when I watched it, before I was prepped for greatness. This usually sets me up for failure, as all the buzz just gets me way too hyped. This one did that  but did not leave me hanging. I was impressed from start to finish. I also normally would never really want to watch a tragedy over again, but this one, I will make an exception for. It will sit right up there with the 90’s Romeo and Juliet to play again and again. I’m also calling Oscar nominations if not awards now.

What did you think? This is was too blown up or not enough or just right? Let me know!