A musical, engaging, and very intimate movie. Amidst the occasional set up scenes, groups of friends and family, etc, most of this film is shot close up to mid and often off tripod. As a result, viewers feel drawn right onto the stage and into the chemistry between these two alluring stars. Interestingly enough, even though the film bond between these two singers (and yes both sang, and often live - so I've read) feels absolutely authentic, I can't say as much for the sensual or love connection. Oddly it didn't bother me, because these characters link on another level -- bonded by music.

Out of the box, Bradley Cooper toys with a new sound to his voice. He's known for doing great impressions, so as the film played I was quietly trying to decipher the famous vocal personality he was cloning. Jeff Bridges was my first guess, but then I settled in on Sam Elliott. Hence, when Sam Elliott appears as his older brother, and even says "You stole my voice" – I'm sure I wasn't the only one to enjoy a chuckle. All of these performances are marvelous. Even Andrew Dice Clay knocks it out of the park (quietly) as Ally's human, but loving father.

I usually don't enjoy films where a major character is intoxicated most of the time, but Bradley plays it just right … talented, faulted, but redeemable, his ego doesn't get away from him too many times. Lady Gaga approaches the part barefaced and open for anything. She's raw, easy to root for and radiant without the makeup. You'll tap your foot, you'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll feel like you too, somehow, participated in the relationship.

-- Books by Author/Illustrator Ross Anthony --