A Star Is Born (2018) Movie Review: a (movie) star is born in a crushing and amazing portrayal of what fame, drugs, and love can do to people

Cooper has hit a home run in his first time at bat. This is his directorial debut and best performance to date. The way the film gracefully and effectively portrays a crushingly realistic depiction of addiction and fame is really amazing to behold. It shows a level of sophistication and nuance that is incredible and rare in a first-time director. Although this movie is brutal to watch at times, it maintains a watchable and accessible tone that shows the hope and happiness that is all-too-often overlooked. The love story feels genuine and sweet throughout.

This kind of story could easily come across as corny or creepy, but Cooper and Gaga do an exceptional job selling their relationship. Lady Gaga’s dramatic acting debut is the reason that many people are as excited as they are for the movie, as well as the biggest question mark going in for me. She does not disappoint. Despite her character’s flaws and the mistakes she makes, she remains endlessly likeable. I really believe that this movie will make her a movie star. I think Bradley Cooper gives the better performance, but he kinda gave himself the best role possible.

The music is also a big win. Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper are given a wide variety of songs, and they nail them all. The many stage performances are also very well shot and choreographed. The movie is overall very well shot, come to think of it. It doesn’t feel pretentious or film-schooly, there are plenty of really effective shots that don’t overdo it.

I don’t have that complicated of thoughts about this movie, but this isn’t a very complicated movie. It sets out to tell a story that is timely and effective, and Cooper definitely delivers. I didn’t know much at all about the plot of this movie going in, and I recommend that you do the same. If you are at all interested in fame and it’s effect on people, you can not miss this.

I give A Star Is Born an A+.