PIC of the Week – A Star Is Born
Article series by Ray Schillaci
Warner Brothers gives us a fourth go-around on what has proved to be a tried-and-true beloved story. The question; tired retread or a total reinvention that sweeps audiences off their feet? Well, A Star is Born proves to be quite the latter, a damn good show enhanced by bravura performances by Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, Sam Elliott, and a dynamic writing/directing debut by producer Cooper, becoming not only a triple threat, but a quintuple threat with his musical prowess that he only acquired within a six month time frame.
The original story was conceived in 1937 with two stars at the top of their game, Janet Gaynor and Fredric March. An effective weepy drama about a young ingenue seeking fame in Hollywood, and being discovered by an alcoholic star on his last leg of his own legend. With each iteration the studio succeeded in bringing on talent that wowed audiences; 1954, Judy Garland and James Mason, and in 1976 the story shifted more towards the music scene with Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson.
Bradley Cooper kept the country western persona and jettisoned Lady Gaga’s appeal to all new heights with this latest tale of new found fame and the rapid decline of a musical superstar. But, Cooper manages to make this story wonderfully relevant for today’s audience keeping it far from its predecessors. From the opening scene of the title, writer/director Cooper delivers chills. There is an excitement to his directing style, and one cannot help wonder why he was not nominated by The Academy.
In the beginning of the film, I couldn’t help but notice the deep guttural inflection that Cooper displays that reminded me of another famous voice…Sam Elliott. Elliott plays Cooper’s older brother and caretaker. It all makes sense once you seem them together and Cooper does a magnificent job of creating a once tight relationship that is tearing apart at the threads. Then, there is the chemistry of Cooper and Gaga. This has to be one of the most realistic and down-to-earth love affairs we’ve seen in a long time. But, for those familiar with the previous movies, you know theirs will not head in a good direction.
The 4K presentation is downright beautiful from the large scale concert footage to the intimate moments between Cooper and Gaga. This presentation is an upscaled 2160p/Dolby Vision UHD and definitely improves upon the Blu-ray which is no slouch visually. There is a clarity and sharpness on this 4K that is a great demonstration as to what a home theater can offer with the right system. Once again, giving home theater enthusiasts another reason to upgrade from Blu.
And, if that doesn’t work for tru-Blu fans, the Dolby ATMOS sound is a factor easily decided upon once heard off this 4K presentation. This is another reference quality film that you will want to crank up especially in the concert footage. For those who tend to have problem with hearing dialogue, this disc provides a near crystal clear version preserving just about every word. Once again, intimate scenes are handled just as meticulous as concert footage. the sound team should be commended for such a fine presentation.
Supplements are a mixed bag with Musical Moments shared with the Dolby Vision disc as well as the Blu. But, the rest of the bonus features remain on the Blu…
• The Road to Stardom (HD): Documentary on of the production, from casting and performances to plot and music. Cast & crew interviews. Cooper’s dedication to the role of director and singer.
• Jam Sessions and Rarities (HD): Trio of rehearsals with Cooper and Gaga.
1.”Baby What You Want Me to Do”
2.”Midnight Special”
3.”Is That Alright”
• Music Videos (HD): Four performances with Lady Gaga, including one with Cooper.
4.”Shallow”
5.”Always Remember Us This Way”
6.”Look What I Found”
7.”I’ll Never Love Again”
• Musical Moments (HD): Viewers can jump to specific songs from the movie.
This is an easy choice for repeated viewing for those who appreciate Lady Gaga. But, it’s also a surprise musical debut of Bradley Cooper that is thoroughly enjoyable, and makes this film an easy purchase without question. Once again, there is a significant difference between the 4K and the Blu, and for those who have not made the leap, you may be hedging towards it after seeing this film.
Lowest price: $29.95 – Target, Best Buy, Amazon
But, hears a hint for those looking for a better deal…it’s been known to sell “brand new, unopened” for as low as $17 at swap meets. Not sure how that works, but I thought it’s worth a mention.
