A Star Is Born is a classic movie that has been remade several times over the years. Each version of the movie has its own unique qualities, making it difficult to determine which one is the best. Let’s take a closer look at each version and try to determine which one stands out as the best.
The 1937 Version
The first version of A Star Is Born was released in 1937 and starred Janet Gaynor and Fredric March. This black and white film tells the story of a young woman who dreams of becoming a Hollywood star, but her dreams are put on hold when she falls in love with an aging actor whose career is on the decline.
The 1937 version of A Star Is Born was groundbreaking for its time, but it lacks the emotional depth and complexity of the later versions. The acting is somewhat melodramatic, and the film feels dated compared to modern movies.
The 1954 Version
The second version of A Star Is Born was released in 1954 and starred Judy Garland and James Mason. This technicolor film follows a similar storyline as the original, but with updated music and performances that elevate it to new heights.
Judy Garland’s performance in this movie is nothing short of breathtaking. She brings a vulnerability to her character that makes her journey all the more compelling. James Mason also delivers an outstanding performance as her troubled love interest.
The 1976 Version
The third version of A Star Is Born was released in 1976 and starred Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson. This version moves away from Hollywood and instead focuses on the music industry, with Kristofferson playing an established rock star who takes Streisand’s character under his wing.
This movie features some great musical performances, including Streisand’s iconic rendition of “Evergreen.” However, it suffers from a lack of chemistry between the leads and a somewhat convoluted plot.
The 2018 Version
The most recent version of A Star Is Born was released in 2018 and starred Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. This version updates the story once again, with Cooper playing an aging country musician who discovers Gaga’s character and helps her become a star.
This movie is a triumph on all levels. The performances by Gaga and Cooper are outstanding, and the music is some of the best ever featured in a movie. The film also deals with important issues such as addiction and mental health in a sensitive and nuanced way.
Conclusion
While each version of A Star Is Born has its own unique qualities, it is clear that the 2018 version stands out as the best. Lady Gaga’s performance alone is worth the price of admission, but when combined with Bradley Cooper’s directing and acting skills, it becomes something truly special.
