Movie Review by Fr. Tom Condon, O.P.

A Star Is Born may be the most iconic of all Hollywood stories. The current movie is the fourth version of the film. The movie was previously filmed in the 1930’s, 1950’s (with Judy Garland), and the 1970’s (with Barbra Streisand). Basically, this is the story of an established Hollywood celebrity (actors in the first two versions, rock musicians in the second two), who meet and fall in love with younger, talented women who aspire to show business. The older man mentors and eventually marries the younger woman. As her career takes off, his career begins to fade. It’s a great story about fame and celebrity, as well as the effects of ego and jealousy, mixed with alcohol and (in the later versions) drugs.

Surprisingly, the story still works 80 years after the first movie. And the new movie, despite being a little long, with a few slow patches, works very well. Bradley Cooper was responsible for bringing this version of Star back to the screen. Not only does he play Jack, the male lead, but he also produced, directed, and co-wrote the screenplay and some of the songs. As Ally, the female lead, pop singer Lady Gaga makes a great screen debut. Both give great performances, and even sing together. Who knew that Cooper could sing?
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