MOVIE: A Star is Born (Film Review)

“For every star to be born, one has to flame out.”

A third remake of “A Star is Born” hit off gulf cinemas last weekend, and while everyone fell in love with Bradley Cooper charm and acting, a fanatic heart of mine deeply fell for Lady Gaga. Yep, you read it right, fangirling here on Stefani Germanotta.

Ally works as waitress who at the same time performs in Drag Bar, was discovered by Jackson “Jack” Maine, country singer who has personal battle with drug addiction and alcohol. Mesmerized by her voice, Jack approached Ally, and spent the night together talking their dreams and some personal matters, including Ally’s  dream of becoming professional singer.

On one of his tours, he invited her to perform, and despite the reluctance, she was persuaded, belting the burning ballad “shallow” which made her an overnight celebrity. Along the way, they begin to form a romantic relationship. [Stop right there, spoiler not allowed]. 

Okay, let’s start with the good side of the film. First, everything is good. Everything is placed where they should be. I’ve seen Bradley Cooper in Hangover, Limitless, American Hustle, and it’s given, he really is an actor ever since. But lady Gaga? She is a total revelation. Though I’ve seen here from the miniseries American horror Story, But in this film, she is like a new person. Lady gaga is so confident to play the role of Ally’s lack of confidence character. She nailed every scene, every line, every song, without overshadowing Copper’s performance. Copper and Gaga complement each other. And after I saw the whole movie, I cannot think of anyone who can perform Ally’s character other than Gaga.

Of course, let’s not forget the supporting characters which completed the story. Noodles’ appearance as Jacks’ childhood friend maybe short, but it served as the turning point of their relationship to another level. Words of wisdom from people you trust really makes a difference. And Bobby the big brother? Yeah Yeah, just the look in his face and you will feel his love and support for Jack. How about the Ally’s father and BFF who are there all through out? Or the performers from the Drag Bar? Or Rez ? All of them made a tremendous impact on the plot serving their purpose. Not just putting those characters in the movie and place them in front of the camera.

How about the bad side?... Usually, I always try to weigh the bad with good, or vice versa. But in this one, Nothing. This is Bradley's another feather in his hat. Directing your own film, scrutinizing your own acting is a quite a job, but Cooper delivered it well in the screen. Spark. Chemistry, harmony, the selection of songs, the places, the direction, the scenes, Charlie the scene stealer, everything is there. Everything fits perfectly. And the last scene singing “together”, is so heart piercing.

I sometimes have a distorted definition on romance. Romantic and drama films always go last on my genre. But “A Star is Born” is an exception. And although Julia Roberts is another bet for Oscars Best Actress for her upcoming film Ben is Back, which I'd love to see as well, but this time, I will definitely place my bet on Lady Gaga’s perfectly natural performance.

Special thanks to @NovoCinemasQatar and @QatarLiving for the overflowing kindness. Another opportunity to SEE it first. #AGreatTimeOut