‘A Star is Born’ is a tale of music and heartbreak

Posted on October 12, 2018

By MARK VIOLA

To be completely honest, “A Star is Born” is probably not a film I would have gone to see if I didn’t review movies. It looked great, but based on the trailers, I felt it was going to include some serious heartbreak in addition to its music. And, I was right, but I’m glad I went to see the movie, because it is an exceptional debut directing effort from Bradley Cooper (“American Sniper”) and boasts a wonderful performance from Lady Gaga (“American Horror Story”).

This is the fourth time Hollywood has told this story. The original version debuted in 1937 with Janet Gaynor and Fredrick Marsh, followed by remakes in 1954 starring Judy Garland and James Mason, as well as 1976 starring Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson.

The story follows an alcoholic musician (Cooper), who meets a young singer (Lady Gaga) and helps her find fame just as his own career is beginning to sink.

First off, let me say that Cooper can sing much better than I ever expected, and Lady Gaga can act even better. Cooper has played broken characters before for award-winning directors David O. Russell in “Silver Linings Playbook” and Clint Eastwood in “American Sniper.” He was nominated for both performances, but his work in “A Star is Born” may be his best yet. I could see him and Lady Gaga earning nods this awards season, as well as the film itself.

In addition to the performances, the music is also quite good, and I’m considering buying the soundtrack — not something I was expecting going in.

There is definitely heartbreak along this journey, but the story, the characters and the music make it worth taking the trip.

The film is rated R for language throughout, some sexuality/nudity and substance abuse.

Subscribe to our e-Edition and read the rest of the story. Already a subscriber? Click here to sign in.