A Star Is Born has given birth to two incredibly multi-talented stars.

Rating: 8/10 (8 October 2018)

A universal story that transcends time, so much so that this is the third remake since the 1937 original (excluding Bollywood's 'Aashiqui 2'). Comparisons could be made between each iteration, however having not seen any of the previous remakes I can only judge the story solely based on this interpretation. To say I'm stunned is an understatement. A story so clearly personable to both of the lead stars, that one can instantly feel the passion in the acting, music and directing. Astonishing. A server stuck in a demoralising job happens to sing in front of a famous musician, who instantly takes a liking to her. Guiding her under his wing, she swiftly turns into a star where his jealousy soon gets the better of him. A directorial debut for Cooper who also acts and sings alongside Gaga. A near-perfect direction for a story that could've easily succumbed to melodrama. His focus and attentiveness on the flourishing romance and the music was astutely resonating. He never once deterred from them. However what elevates his style even further is just how stripped back it really is. The method in which he approaches Gaga, whose character believes she does not have the attractive qualities to be a successful musician, was close and personal. Almost caressing her with every movement that she makes, propelling her extraordinary voice and converting it into beauty. It's because of his delicate directing style that both the relationship and the characters feel real. Raw, emotive and visceral. Whether they express rage, passion or sadness, you feel every moment. Clinging onto the screenplay as if each word is a lyric to a meaningful ballad. The exploration of the music industry, identity and family is thorough and slightly underdeveloped, but applause must be given to the sheer focus and intent on the romance. It's an emotional rollercoaster of a drama. One moment you'll be singing and smiling, the next you'll be crying and depressed. This plethora of feelings reflect the relationship that is portrayed, making you feel just as involved as the actors.
Much talk has been given to Gaga recently, with even the possibility of awards. For a global superstar to transition into a leading actor for a drama filled with musicality and emotional depth, she did a dazzling job. The solo performances, particularly 'Shallow' and 'I'll Never Love Again', were sensational. We're talking shivers down my spine and goosebumps on my arms. Fortunately, she is just able to balance the marvellous singing with some decent acting. However, there were times where she struggled to convey emotion. Her facial acting was lacklustre, unable to present conviction in any emotional response. It was if she was trying too hard, and unfortunately it showed. It seems Gaga had stolen Cooper's thunder, which is a shame considering his performance was irrefutably exceptional. A truly transformative performance that showcased the destructive force of envy. A damaged individual who has succumbed to drinking and drug misuse. Constantly captivating. The music itself also shares an adequate amount of screentime, with performances embedded within the narrative. This does diminish the pacing somewhat, as dialogue that proceeded these were typically monotonous and cold, acting as cool downs from the energetic musicality. However despite the shortcomings that prevent this from being outstanding, Cooper has outdone himself. No longer do we question "can Gaga act?" or "can Cooper sing?". The amalgamation and chemistry of these two talents was seamless in this engrossing drama. Merging two art forms into one spellbinding film.