Bradley Cooper's bravest work

Rating: 8/10 (19 August 2019)

A Star Is Born is more than your simple musical romance: it is a nuanced, real and truly heartfelt piece of cinema, one that Bradley Cooper obviously invested some serious time into (having directed and led the cast). Following country star Jack's (Cooper) chance meeting with Ally (Lady Gaga) and their succeeding relationship, the abusive powers of drugs, alcohol and fame are all laid bare. There are more than a few personal touches to each scene. Cooper's addictive personality, something he's battled with in his own life, has a haunting reality to it - something only possible from someone who has suffered such hell themselves.
Further to this, Lady Gaga is a revelation; a lifetime in show-business has helped her develop both an appreciation and a contempt for the public, but it's more her awareness of Jack's struggles that make Ally such a believable character. Sam Elliott (the original Stranger from the Big Lebowski) is also a transformed man, showing more emotion than he is usually allowed to display. The authenticity of this film is furthered by the devotion to the image of country music. Filming at venues such as Coachella (where Gaga had headlined that year) gave authentic atmospheres to scenes, and smaller gigs towards the beginning of the film look believable.
Gaga convinced Cooper that singing live would be preferable for the film's image, so neither lip-synced, and both comfortably hold their own on stage. The most powerful scene (an argument between Ally and Jack in the bathroom) felt beyond genuine, making a serious case for my favourite scene this year. Hopefully Cooper gives directing some attention - more work like this could make him a serious cinema powerhouse in the near future.