Movie Review: A Star is Born

Review Written By Michael J. Ruhland









Michael's Movie Grade: A-

Review: The worst thing I can say about this film is that the 1937, and the 1954 version are better (I don't like the 1976 version, to be honest). That as many of my fellow movie fans know is not even an insult. This is a fantastic movie that proves (just as the '54 version did) that the basic story of A Star is Born is timeless and can be adapted to any time period.

The reason the story holds up so well, even though we have seen it three times before is that everybody working on the film seems to have a complete passion for what they are doing. This is not a phoned in, get a few bucks from an easy audience remake. This is a film made by people who still love the basic story and want to introduce it to a new generation and tell it in their own way. Every emotional scene in this movie is still just as powerful as ever. Even though I knew how the story would end up, because I have seen the previous versions, I still found myself tearing up and feeling uncomfortable (in a good way). Bradley Cooper proves himself a very good director right out of the gate. There is not a shot wasted in this movie and the use of montage is near perfect. Adding to this movie is the great cinematography by Matthew Libatique. The whole movie looks visually great. The performances from our two leads are also fantastic, and I agree with those saying there might be a good acting career ahead for Lady Gaga.


One thing that really stand out in this movie is the music. The songs are absolutely fantastic. Many of them were cowritten by Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga themselves. Honestly I could see myself buying a Bradley Cooper album if he ever decided to put any out. The man has a really good voice and songwriting talent to spare. Not only that but he has a real presence when performing his songs that amazed me. I know it has been said many times, but Lady Gaga's voice is amazing. Her type of music isn't always mine, but her talent can not be denied. She really gets to show how amazing her talent is as these songs show her voice to her best advantage. Backing up Bradley Cooper is Lukas Nelson and Promise of the Real (Lukas is the son of country music legend Willie Nelson for those who don't know). They are a fantastic country-rock band and their energy is perfectly captured here. Lady Gaga suggested to Cooper that the music be preformed and record live. This idea works brilliantly as during the song numbers there is that amazing energy that can be felt when watching a great concert film. These scenes make you feel like you are at a concert and give you the same excitement.


There are a few missteps in this movie. For instance the SNL scene doesn't work at all and the movie can feel a little long towards the end. Still these faults are completely overcome by what is great about this movie.

All in all, this is what a remake should be and a great movie.

-Michael J. Ruhland