I think I’ve discussed on this blog before that movies are not really my thing, but every now and again I see a trailer for something that instantly grabs my attention. The latest movie to grab my attention? The 2018 Bradley Cooper directed musical romantic drama, A Star Is Born, from Warner Bros. Pictures.

The movie tells the story of famous country singer, Jackson Maine(played by Cooper), who, while secretly battling a dependency on alcohol and drugs, meets a drag club singer by the name of Ally Campana (played by Lady Gaga) in a nightclub after a show and is immediately struck by her talent. The rest of the movie follows the lives of the two musicians as they fall in love and start a relationship, at the same time that Ally’s career begins to take off. The acting on show across the cast is of an incredibly high standard with support for our protagonists coming in the form of respected actors like Dave Chappelle, Sam Elliott, Anthony Ramos, and others.

As well as the well constructed plot and incredible acting performances, the movie has also received widespread praise for the musical soundtrack and performances. And for good reason. Cooper and Gaga put in performances that will definitely see them in the shake for Oscars next year, with Gaga demonstrating why she is considered one of the most talented and interesting artists at the moment. Even if you are not usually a fan of her music, there is no denying that this is one of the best musical performances that you are likely to see on a movie screen for sometime.

The standout track from the movie’s soundtrack is undeniably Shallow, a powerful and beautifully written song, performed by Cooper and Gaga. The song has been a massive commercial success away from the movie, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries across the globe. The song plays a crucial role to the progression of the story of the movie as it signifies the moment that Jackson and Ally decide to take their relationship to the next level. An uplifting composition about being brave in love.

Another song from the soundtrack that stands out is Always Remember Us This Way. Performed by Lady Gaga, it is another beautifully written piano ballad that showcases the incredible voice of Gaga. 

Long story short, A Star Is Born is a wonderful piece of cinema. Make sure you get out to it.

MK