By guest writer reelrealities.
Since the first time I heard Lady Gaga singing SHALLOW in the first trailer for this film, I was looking forward to it. This is the fourth take on this film in Hollywood, but there are many firsts that make this film what it is.
I have always found Bradley Cooper to be a good actor without being great, but he gives his best performance in this for sure. But more than his acting, I was surprised by his singing, which is the heart of this film, and it is no mean feat to maintain that intensity with Lady Gaga by his side.
Speaking of which, Lady Gaga gives a wonderful performance and is a far cry from the over-the-top persona she has portrayed in her videos and on the small screen. Her voice is exceptional, but her acting is no less. Agreed, the role was tailored for her, but I am sure we will see much more of her in coming days as an actor.
The story is the same with some minor tweaks, but the thing which catches the eye is the chemistry between the leads, which is raw and grounded. The songs are exceptional and they are already creating waves in the charts and I am sure they will do the same in awards season.
My only gripe with the film is the pacing and editing where it feels that things happen too quick, and it can affect the character development at times. But this is understandable since this is the first directoral venture by Bradley Cooper and I am sure he will evolve. Lastly, it will be unfair if Sam Elliott’s performance as Cooper’s elder brother is not mentioned. He has given perhaps the most emotional performance of the film, stealing every scene he is in.
At the end of the day, this is like ordering the chocolate lava cake from your usual bakery. You know what you will get, but that doesn’t matter: what you get is what you like.
Reelrealities reviews and recommends movies, find more on instagram or reelrealities007.blogspot.com.