A STAR IS BORN

A STAR IS BORN: B+

This film most certainly delivered on performance, even if it lacked a little on its story. It's not easy for me to say anything critical attached to Eric Roth (FORREST GUMP/ THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON) but there was something about the writing that did not transpire or better put live up to the performances of the cast.

Lady Gaga held her own in the presence of Bradley Cooper who was outright phenomenal. Touching, compelling, and above all convincing. I only wish the script could have been as convincing as was his performance. Dave Chappelle was great and when it comes to acting, Sam Elliott is a God.

My problem with the script is that I don't feel it earned its pivotal moments throughout the film. I feel the actors earned those moments all on their own through their impeccable performances without the help of a well written script. Yes, I felt a wave of emotions upon Jackson's death, but that was solely from Cooper's honesty in his performance. The script seemed disingenuous, insincere and dishonest. A contradiction to the elements and rules it had set up. A transition from A to C, without a B, in desperation of a B, only saved by a remarkable actor.

The music in this film should also receive praise. As my best friend Joel Straube put it best, "When she isn't trying to sing pop, Lady Gaga has a beautiful voice." The song "Maybe it's Time" seems a song that speaks to many in many different ways.