Bradley Cooper has become the latest A-lister to make the gigantic, scary leap from acting to directing.
Many fail and only a small handful succeed (while even fewer continue to succeed after their first effort).
Cooper’s retelling of A Star is Born, the third cinematic remake, sees rough and tumble country-rock star Jackson Maine (Cooper) entertain crowds whilst privately battling a drug and alcohol addiction.
Maine’s thirst for booze draws him to a drag bar in California, leading to a chance encounter between himself and struggling performer Ally (Lady Gaga).
Her rendition of La Vie en Rose has him hooked, and – before Ally can fully fathom the situation – they begin a whirlwind romance.
As Ally becomes a household name, Maine’s issues steadily get worse.
Cooper’s first directorial feature balances old and new, creating a pitch-perfect blend of old Hollywood romance and modern, sombre drama.
From the live music sequences to the intimate recording sessions, Cooper displays an affection for, and an understanding of, music few people possess.
Cooper doesn’t just shine onscreen, but also delivers a sterling effort behind the camera worthy of a Best Director nomination.
Stepping out of the shadow created by the likes of Judy Garland and Barbara Streisand before her, Gaga comes off like a seasoned professional in her first feature film leading role.
Drawing from her own experiences, Gaga hits all the right notes and put herself in pole position prior to awards season.
Cooper and Gaga sizzle, with the pair bouncing off one another with the energy of a thousand suns.
Supporting performances from Sam Elliott, Andrew Dice Clay, and Dave Chappelle are powerful but never overwhelming.
A Star is Born isn’t just one of 2018’s best movies so far, it’s a showcase of Cooper’s confidence and Gaga’s extraordinary talents.
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