A Star Is Born: You’ll Go “Gaga” For It!

There have been two prior "A Star Is Born" movies, but Bradley Cooper thought the world needed a third, and I think he's right!  Cooper co-wrote, directs, and stars in this new version, which doesn't disappoint. Jackson Maine (Cooper) is a big-time country rock star, but he's past his peak.  He can still fill large venues, but he's taking drugs and drinking too much.  While popping into a drag club for a drink, he hears Ally (Lady Gaga) sing a terrific version of "La Vie en Rose."  He recognizes top-notch talent when he hears it and meets Ally after the show. While spending time together that night, Ally sings him one of the songs she has just written, and Jackson realizes that Ally is GREAT!  They immediately fall hard for each other, and Maine asks Ally to join him on his concert tour.  Although, at first, Ally refuses, she soon changes her mind.  A duet they do at Jackson's concert goes viral and Ally is suddenly a star! Fame, however, has its price.  Maine's alcohol and drug problems seriously threaten their relationship.  Ally signs up with a manager (Rafi Gavron) to launch her own career, apart from Maine.  The manager wants her to make dance music that sells, rather than perform songs from the heart, which alienates Maine. Both leads are terrific, and I wouldn't be surprised if both receive AA nominations for Best Actor.  The wonderful chemistry between them is what makes the picture special.  Most of the musical numbers (written primarily by Lady Gaga, but some by Cooper) are very good, and a couple are even great.  Cooper even sings his own songs too!  I'm sure this film will also get an AA nomination for Best Picture, although I doubt it will win. If you're in the mood for a love story/musical, this one is hard to "beat!"