A Star Is Born - Four Movies And Counting

although it may be the fourth version in 81 years of classic rags to riches tale A Star is Born the latest incarnation has become a cinematic blockbuster unlikely, directed by and starring Bradley Cooper with none other than modern pop icon Lady GaGa giving a flawless courageous performance. Beyonce dropped out, Selena Gomez was in the mix, GaGa has acted before with poise, this is a major step up. In some kind of variation the premise has been explored in hundreds of movies just not called A Star is Born, concentrating on the previous instalments is well worth exploring for musical fans alongside film aficionados, each the unique views aspirations and relevance to classic movie history.

1937; silent film beauty Janet Gaynor extending her talents to ‘talkies’. Power, love, fickleness upscales and downfalls of fame is all explored. In brilliant early Technicolour the film looks outstandingly old school while being equally irresistible within a story of two performers with careers moving in opposite directions. Fredric March as the falling actor is brilliant with great chemistry. Timeless tale of Hollywood was at the time not as it is now, the studio system was new, depression era in full swing so coming to Hollywood was the place for people with stars in their eyes to escape small town syndrome. Must see before all others, the best version of them all winner of three Oscars.

1954; showcasing the triumphant all singing all dancing simmering acting techniques of Judy Garland semi-musical remake of 1937 version digs deep into the darkness of doomed Hollywood star couple living the complicated dream in and out of silver lining success. Prestigious James Mason expands the incisive downfall of stardom opening the way for his dedicated true love, his acting is supreme opposite the great Garland who grew up and stayed in the limelight her entire real life. Beware of various cut down versions, restored 167 min completely restored presentation is the one to seek out.

1976; stimulated changes into the rock star scene has underrated actor Kris Kristofferson banging out some incredible moments opposite equally iconic Barbara Streisand through vibrant musical numbers through all important emotional scenes. Time appropriate changes of an era on the point of looking at the modern fame expectations to the ego to the subtle logic of love to positions they are put in are corrupted by expectations. When viewing pump up the volume.

2018; not much more can be said regarding this global film and record chart bonanza, just see it. In a renaissance of movie musicals with La La Land, Greatest Showman, Mamma Mia, Bohemian Rhapsody; not to mention the reimagining of Disney sing a such as Beauty & the Beast and upcoming Mary Poppins Returns, it’s all happening. Lady GaGa a catalyst here, singing her heart out it’s her movie. No special effects, communicating her emotions naturally in a stellar awardworthy tone. An abrupt ending has divided some viewers but all that came before it is one hell of the experience.