Review of A Star Is Born (2018) by Kevin P — 28 Nov 2018

Strengths: For a first time director, Bradley Cooper does a great job with this. He shoots it in a way that feels realistic and thereâ(TM)s a sense of the drunkenness of his character in the way he shot. That felt intentional. Cooper (Jackson Maine) is fantastic from an acting standpoint. He completely nails every mannerism that comes with the role. You truly feel like heâ(TM)s a drunken mess, yet in each scene regarding the relationship feels earnest. Even when drunk, itâ(TM)s clear heâ(TM)s in love. Lady Gaga (Ally Maine) should also be in Best Actress Oscar conversation this year. It ranks among the best work sheâ(TM)s done from a music standpoint and is easily her best acting. There arenâ(TM)t many performances more raw in recent memory. Sam Elliott (Bobby Maine) should be a Best Supporting Actor favorite for his portrayal of Jacksonâ(TM)s brother. The scene where he finds out that Jackson idolized him is touching and he doesnâ(TM)t say a word. The music is tremendous, with the film having the best original songs since The Greatest Showman.

Weaknesses: Thereâ(TM)s only one real issue that I had with this movie, but itâ(TM)s a big enough one to keep it from being the best of the year. Thereâ(TM)s simply not enough conflict. Films are built on conflict and having tense scenes featuring that is crucial. While it is engaging to watch Allyâ(TM)s rise to stardom, she almost never faces a struggle. She goes on stage and kills it instantly. Every problem she could face, whether it be a sleazy manager or something involving her husband, gets wrapped up quickly. The couple has just one fight and one major problem throughout. I needed more.

Overall: With a little more conflict, this couldâ(TM)ve been a truly special film. The music, acting, and direction are all expertly done. It will go down as one of the best films of 2018.