Comparing Every Version of A Star Is Born

I took a look at each version of A Star Is Born and what they say about our cultural and cinematic history.
Check out my channel for more.
Also I highly recommend Ron Haver's book if you're into production history: www.amazon.com...
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[@ZoraTheberge]

It’s funny how every version’s Esther/Ally is a reflection of the actress playing her.

[@alalalala57]

@Yeet W Actually no.

[@itsybitsy999]

@Sharon Jensen So did Bradley Cooper, he's sober now after struggling with alcohol addiction.

[@naywalker9182]

Makes it work

[@nanic8848]

@Yeet W giggvivvvivvigv

[@nanic8848]

@Yeet W giggvivvvivvigvg

[@bunkertons]

Poor Judy! She was clearly talking about herself in that confession scene.

[@collinsje5]

It was too raw and powerful not to be real. Thank you, Judy Garland and George Cukor.

[@glennlaroche1524]

You're totally right--many biographies have said that it was based not only on her career, but also her troubled/failing marriage to Sid Luft.

[@haintedhouse3052]

it was hard to buy the storyline in Judys version, just because of her history.

[@haintedhouse3052]

@laura Silveria ease up laura. all I said was Judy had a lot of problems with abuse. in the storyline Norman is the one with the abuse problem, therefore it was hard for me to separate the film from reality.

[@cassieearle9196]

@@haintedhouse3052 well it was probably hard because it was originally 3 hours and they cut a lot her stuff out.

[@captngorton7306]

I'm obsessed with Lady Gaga but Judy is PERFECT for this role. She truly knew the darkness of Hollywood and fame.

[@carterhopkins1057]

I think they all did in their own way.

[@PandaPanda-eq3fr]

Carter Hopkins-Croak you should watch the movie Judy. It is all about Judy Garland. You will understand the comment much more.

[@carterhopkins1057]

Panda Panda I’ve seen it! I’m just saying the point is that they all have gone through hardships while becoming stars

[@rosemma34]

@@carterhopkins1057 not like Judy -- she was exceptional in every way in the talent and intelligence departments

[@carterhopkins1057]

Emma Nation I didn’t say she wasn’t lol they all are lmaoo

[@jiananlee5482]

It’s funny how Barbara won her Oscar when the film is so poorly received, and Judy was so robbed

[@MadelaineAshton]

Barbra only won the Oscar for the song, not the acting

[@Zombievoodooqueen]

Lady gaga was robbed too! She should have won.

[@seraby7151]

@@Zombievoodooqueen she won best song! That's still good! Plus lady gaga is a better singer/songwriter than actress anyway.

[@songbirdinnc]

Kristofferson gave such an honest, vulnerable performance, it won him a Golden Globe for Best Actor. His character was so burned out and exhausted. The telling line was when his driver said, “Where to?” His response? “Back about ten years.” Kris has said that seeing the ending had such a profound effect on him, he stopped drinking.

[@katokamakazie5549]

Y is people saying Gaga shuda won for acting? Seriously??? Her music undeniably superb yes.. Bt her acting.... Seriously for which scene, where there was no music included are u setting ur argument on coz i missed tht when wtching the film like 50 times... My opinion she ddnt act as well as she sang in the movie and should never be compared to Ms Garland. Ever!

[@collinsje5]

FUN FACTS: The 1954 version could have easily been lost. During the video restoration, they managed to save everything except about 10 minutes of video (audio for that part survived). Decades ago, nobody thought of movies as art works to be preserved. They would just put film master prints into containers and store them in vaults. The film would sometimes disintegrate. We no longer think that way, of course. Another film that was in danger of being lost was 1964's My Fair Lady. The restoration, however, was a complete success.

[@christinahorton7320]

I had no idea.. Very cool to know!

[@scarefest2268]

Cool

[@withfootnotes]

I also heard that it was too long for the box office audience so they cut 30 minutes which left holes in the plot.

[@boltguy]

The 1954 version of 'A Star Is Born' was shown in test screenings in a196 minute version. Despite the fact that audiences were wildly enthusiastic at the screenings, director George Cukor cut the film to 182 minutes for its New York premiere. The film received rave reviews in the press, but the studio was concerned that the running time would mean fewer screenings per day and against the wishes of Cukor, they trimmed the film to 154 minutes, losing two major musical numbers and some key dramatic scenes. This was the version that went into general release and was the only version seen for almost thirty years until the 1983 restoration by Ron Haver, which restored the film to a 176 minute running time. a few years ago it was rumored that film restorer and friend of Liza Minnelli, Michael Arick had a complete print of the film, but nothing has been heard of that since. . The 'My Fair Lady' restoration was a different kettle of fish entirely. The existing 154 min standard release print of 'A Star Is Born' was not in danger of being lost as the original elements of that print had been well preserved. The restoration was primarily involved with restoring previously cut footage. The 'My Fair Lady' restoration was in order to renew and preserve deteriorating elements for the entire film and nothing to do with salvaging previously cut or lost footage.

[@withfootnotes]

boltguy Very informative! Never knew that. Thanks. Any idea where the partially restored version can be watched, if at all?

[@alexkmz]

I like to think that Ally's arc in the movie mirrors Gaga herself. Starting small then getting huge really fast, becoming a pop-icon with sexualized music, and now that she's become who she wants to be as an artist she can do whatever the hell she wants and be honest with herself. She still does pop stuff, but they come from more honest and real places and combine with her more country/folk music of recent albums.

[@rodrigomonsaraz2043]

I think the movie mirrors in no way Gaga's ascension. Just to be clear: nothing for or against that, it's just what I think. Gaga was not discovered by a lover. She was not told to change her hair color. She changed it herself. Sure, initially because she did not want to be confused with Amy Winehouse. But then she created a whole persona for her. More than a pseudonym even. In personal terms, I think I read that one of the things that contributed the most for her breakup with her fiancee was her focus on her career (again, no judgement whatsoever, if that was indeed true: whatever makes each person more fulfilled in life should be fine). However, in no way, she seems to be an "Ally" in that regard. And good for her. Beacuse as much as I appreciate Jackson's struggle and Ally's sweetness, a story of a woman who just "grabs" her own chance and future (like Barbra's version, like Gaga herself) is so much more compelling to me than a stroy of what feeld like a sidekick that grew bigger than the actual star.

[@alexkmz]

Rodrigo Monsaraz I...never said that it was exactly the same I said it was similar. I even laid out the basics on how I believed they were similar making no mention of her romantic relationships. You are arguing against a statement I didn’t make.

[@jayandrews3509]

you like to think but that's not the truth

[@kaiatherton]

this is why act 2 lost me. once Ally became a "Pop Star" which didn't make sense really for that to be her musical direction out of choice, unless it was pressure from her manager, Alley became to much like Gaga and we lost ally. se saw the actress, not the character.. Now Lady Gaga was WAYYYYYy better then i ever expected, but she is a new actress in terms of this level, and that nuance was more then she could handle to keep Ally forefront. and not show Gaga.

[@stefanig4834]

alexkmz no no Gaga said it herself, Ally is nothing like Gaga. Ally is someone who gave up on herself. Gaga was the fame monster.

[@BlakeGildaphish76]

"Ms. Streisand's clothes from.. . Her closet." i LOVE that!! LoL

[@carollipton4584]

That's probably THE most Streisand comment of all time!

[@Allegra11]

Miss Malibu California wow! I think you need to lie down in a darkened room for a while. Taking a remark out of context and blowing it up into something else isn’t healthy. I doubt very much ms Streisand is a paedophile or indeed supports them in any way.

[@iamcasihart]

@@Allegra11 Michael was not a pedophile. He was not.

[@Allegra11]

iamcasihart okaaaaay.....🤐

[@kerrychristensen7204]

@@Allegra11 *Clearly* I missed an interesting conversation! O.O

[@jhunz23]

Did all actress all mention about “there could be 99 people in the room who don’t believe in you, & it takes 1 person to believe in you” during their all promotion?

[@g0i2023]

That is exactly what Terry Crews said on the stage of America's Got Talent 2019 season before he hit the golden buzzer for The Detroit Youth Choir.

[@puppylovegourmetbarkery2043]

Gold

[@edum.6353]

Lady Gaga has been using this motto ever since she started (I'm a fan, can confirm).

[@elleofhearts8471]

sounds like confirmation bias to me

[@thecinematicmind]

I find it fascinating how each of the 4 films represent each era of cinema.

[@IvanKNIGHTFROGSROCK]

eyyyy danny! what a coincidence running into you here!

[@matthewmcalister2165]

True. I also find it fascinating that there’s more difference in time between the first and third than between the third and fourth

[@MaxEverywhereSystem]

its really interesting viewing them as one whole tetralogy imo - theres always people just like esther and norman no matter the time period, whos stories might be slightly different yet all end with them being chewed up and spit out by the industry in the same way

[@peacelovesmile6619]

I would like to add at the end of the 2018 film, we see Ally identify herself as Jackson's wife, yes, but also her hair is back to her natural color, and her voice changes during the finale, to her more original sound. I think this shows how that she is now taking control going forward in a world nowadays where the 'star machine' is real again. Also, Gaga has mentioned that Ally only truly becomes a star in the final frame of the movie. I think this is true. Great video, thank you.

[@glamourpussx4797]

Not only that, but Jackson mocks her pop songs and criticises her for not digging deep enough. It takes him dying to give her something to dig deep for.

[@desr278]

She looks and sounds just like when Jackson fell in love with her in the first place.

[@Daisy-jh9sc]

Isn’t it interesting how much that parallels with Gaga’s own career? The years of crazy costumes and stilts stopped once she had really reached stardom, I wonder what event in her life contributed to the change...

[@emiyoung4486]

desr278 yeah. She sings Edith piaf's 'la vie en rose' when Jackson first sees her, and if you remember the final scene of Ally singing with that close up and her looking into the light, it's so comparable with the final scene of the film 'la vie en rose', when Edith is singing 'je regrette rien' after her partner's death! Look! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWnbpZ1vnKt4b5I

[@halfbkdt8rsalad]

@@Daisy-jh9sc possibly her fibromyalgia diagnosis?

[@Mia_M]

I do think Gaga will win an Oscar, not from her role, but from the music she wrote. The music has such depth and you feel the emotions in Bradley's and Gaga's performances, especially in I'll Never Love Again.

[@julz3tt3]

I think Bradley deserves an Oscar for his portrayal too.

[@Jevezy]

She did a good job, but the Oscar belongs to Rami Malek.

[@gisellf6693]

I heard Bradley wrote all the songs ?

[@yoyo-ji6vm]

@@Jevezy LOL Rami didn't do great even critics hate him

[@HMMAwards]

Gaga did a great service to her acting role. Writer credit of the song go to Gaga, Mark Ronson , Anthony Rossomando and Andrew Wyatt. This song won BEST ORIGINAL SONG - FEATURE FILM at the 2018 Hollywood Music In Media Awards held on 11/14/18 Here's a performance of the song at the HMMA: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pamQf4mie69leKc

[@clairefreeman6273]

Interesting that Judy Garland did not win the Oscar for this yet Renee Zellweger won for playing Judy.

[@suzywilliams244]

Yeah, Krazy!!

[@everythingisawesome2903]

The meme turns into reality.

[@jlasf]

Judy was robbed. Grace Kelly in "The Country Girl" is forgotten. Judy Garland in "A Star is Born" is eternal.

[@Michelle-rb2mz]

Yes the Hollywood machine at work Judy did the film with her own studio that's a no no back then

[@Mrsjennaferg]

Your voice is made for voice overs, podcasts, or audiobooks. I love it. So soothing.

[@whisperinggirly]

No it drives me mad. So much vocal fry. But it is typical of videos about 'top 5 things that Miley did this year' or suchlike.

[@beckigreen]

whisperinggirly Agree! It’s annoying.

[@CateJackson]

Ditto! I couldn't make it through a third of the video!

[@alihaider5190]

i love her voice.. whats her name

[@CityStick]

whisperinggirly Agreed! That drives me nuts. Like fingernails on a blackboard.

[@philyra2]

I definitely think Gaga was channeling Judy Garland for this one. She was so much more vulnerable and unsure of herself than Barbra's version. I especially loved her little nod to Judy when she sang a bit of "Over the Rainbow" at the beginning of the film.

[@robertsampson4561]

Except without the conspicuous consumption of all the scenery maybe.....

[@diankilborn1029]

Amy, do you think that the "nose" gesture when he tells her that he wants to take another look at her is homage to Streisand whom I understand from an interview with Lady Gaga, invited her into her home to discuss the film?

[@CigaraStCistar]

Nose commentary from Gaga was to Streisand. ... ☆ ♡

[@LazyDaisyDay88]

I've seen all 3 versions. But what stays with me is when Judy Garland says "this is MRS Norman Maine" I think it is SO powerful...it reduces me to tears. He'd given her so much, taken so much and she STILL loved him. Its about love.

[@stanmarcusgtv]

you are correct, the reviewer doesn't understand

[@sjw5797]

Even in this day and age, I would have expressed it the same way.

[@Zeverinsen]

@@stanmarcusgtv She *just* explained how it's an important difference within the context of how and when the movies were made.

[@Fran-px1oh]

I, cry every time, fool that I am.

[@devontehuntley6274]

There's four versions, unless you count those Indian remakes. You made this comment three years ago when the 2018 version was already out so which "three versions" did you see if you did mean to say three?

[@PeaceFan1]

Judy's Version OF COURSE was THE BEST!!!! Judy SHOULD HAVE WON that Oscar!!! THE GREATEST BLUNDER in Oscar HISTORY!!!!

[@waynej2608]

Exactly! I wasn't even born yet, and that still pisses me off!

[@m.syauqiabdurahman2798]

The Only Time She Won Is For A Juvenile Award In Oscar For Her Perfomancr In "The Wizard Of Oz" And "Babes In Arm" .

[@Dr.SyedSaifAbbasNaqvi]

The academy was so ashamed they gave Judy the Oscar the following year. What a shame.

[@shannonmercier2809]

Yes. To me, Judy for A Star is Born.... Bette for The Rose

[@xaviotesharris891]

@@Dr.SyedSaifAbbasNaqvi No they didn't. What are you talking about? The academy did not give her an award the following year.

[@estherpollock3746]

yeah who names someone Esther in 2018 yknow what i mean

[@TheMissoverthetop]

honestly I thought that "Norman" was a far more outdated name! Norman sounds like an old man lol, but I think "Ally" would have suited the name Esther because its more unique

[@Wensleydale96]

I know, right?! Lol!

[@amaribrown3752]

Well she wasn't born in 2018 so

[@zucchinigreen]

A Golden Girls fan. 😉

[@JMCNYC79]

Esther Pollock Wow. For a toddler your use of the internet is pretty fantastic! You know, since you were born in 2018!

[@MissLilRedRooster]

Garland's interpretation was, in my opinion, the best, because audiences knew her personal experiences; they knew her childhood, they knew her professional struggles, and they knew how her life paralleled that plot in so many ways. She had a voice that was singular, unique, and identifiable, and in many ways, that movie was her swan song. She was raw, emotional, and connected, and was totally robbed of the Oscar for that performance.

[@nannybells]

yes!

[@user-ql4sn9rc2j]

Yes. The scene where she is getting critiqued and has nose plugs put in, that really happened to her. And her movie debut was really her; her singing about being a baby at vaudeville, that really was her. This film was her magnum opus, her heart poured out for millions to see. The fact that she didn’t get the Oscar, as Groucho marks said, was the biggest robbery in history

[@alicekotowicz5727]

I don't know though, because I think that the exact same thing could be said of Gaga's performance

[@user-ql4sn9rc2j]

gagas Esther was a secondary character. that version is more about Anderson Cooper. can't compare to the complexity garland brought @@alicekotowicz5727

[@katokamakazie5549]

@@alicekotowicz5727 plse do not compare Gaga to Lady Garland... EVER! Her singing was 👌 bt her acting NO NO No!

[@luckyylol]

The jump from the third to the fourth movie in camera quality is absolutely crazy to me

[@CrisPS3HD]

Lucy Meade film to digital :0

[@kaberus7565]

I think it's just the copy used. Original film copies are often higher quality than digital.

[@davids9520]

Less than 20 years between 1 & 2. Just over 20 years between 2 & 3. 40 years between 3 & 4 ! A lot of time for technological improvement.

[@totheworkshed7915]

The 1976 Star is Born was shot on 35 mm film, but the definition shown here (in what's at most a 1080p digital scan) is just not reflective of that filmstock's true 4K+ quality. If it was remastered and scanned in 4k they'd probably look pretty close in terms of quality. Filmstock actually has a higher threshold of definition than digital, it just depends if the studio has done a proper digital scan of the negatives. 2018's Star is Born was shot in Codex ARRIRAW (2.8K) (3.4K) so because the format was shot on digital it already has a nice digital rendition here. Regardless digital films will always look "cleaner" because they don't have the variances of film stock, but most digital actually looks cheap because of this appearance, so often in post-production, they will add filters to make the digital appearance look more like "real" filmstock. Probably way too geeky info but someone might appreciate it haha.

[@The22on]

@@totheworkshed7915 As an engineer I appreciate your comment. It’s the old digital vs analogue debate. I always prefer analog - sound or video. Analog is WISIWYG. Digital always needs sweetening to make it look or sound good to the eyes and ears.

[@lizziewalker9374]

I think all four actresses did a wonderful job in their era, but by leaps and bounds, Judy’s version is my favorite. She is both Norman and Esther. Just that one scene with her bought me to tears. She was without a shadow of a doubt a spectacular actress.

[@eamonndeane587]

And one that deserved so much better in Life...

[@lizziewalker9374]

@@eamonndeane587 I agree. No one can deny she was the hardest working actress in Hollywood.

[@taylordowning2533]

The Judy Garland version is my favorite one. I liked the recent version as well, but imho, the 1954 version is great and it has Judy Garland....one of the best entertainers in the world. Her voice alone makes me cry, it was absolutely beautiful.

[@joshuanance]

Judy’s version is by far the best

[@erinpilla]

I agree that the 2018 Grammy scene was less about a power struggle but more of substance abuse at its peak destructiveness. I disagree though that it was more about Jackson than Ally. I felt they were equally given room in the film.

[@ricardocantoral7672]

There stories were twined together but there is a greater emphasis on Jackson's addiction and backstory.

[@als9633]

Definietly feels like it was leaning more towards Jackson, which only makes sense because he was the one struggling throughout the entire movie. It also relates so much on whats going on today and before today. Substance abuse, mental illness.

[@JW-oc5ck]

I left the film disappointed there was not more about Ally and thinking it was totally all Cooper. I understand why they used the vehicle they did (barely anything is written originally and well anymore), but really it should have been called anything but ASIB.

[@allysonmessina1785]

erinpilla Agreed.

[@veronicaschwarz22]

@@atbattson 👏👏👏

[@collinsje5]

Judy Garland's dressing room scene with Charles Bickford is one of the great moments in cinematic history.

[@srtopo24]

It sends chills up my spine every time I see it!

[@waynej2608]

None of the other three, as talented as they may be, come close to what Garland does here.

[@lillietuck6682]

i havent ever seen that scene until watching this video, and the small amount that they showed i was so immersed!! amazing moment!

[@xaviotesharris891]

As is her Man That Got Away among the very top musical performances ever captured on film.

[@estherm3133]

I'm 21 and bitter about the name change

[@Rechard1107]

Last of the Esthers lol

[@littlemonster5871]

😂😂😂😂

[@happyeaster5769]

SAME

[@mikeylmt]

I dated an Esther and I love the name. Besides, old fashioned names are trendy right now! If they aren't where you live, yet, just wait.

[@firsttimecallerlongtimelis836]

There is a character named Esther in the show Barry

[@robertholtz]

I'm truly impressed at how thoughtfully and methodically you took on this analysis. Taking on any one of these films is a major challenge in and of itself. Taking them ALL on at once, without getting lost in the weeds and pulling focus from your key narrative, is not so easy. It affirms your standout prowess as a storyteller. Moreover, as impressed as I am with what you put into this video, I'm still more impressed by what you chose to leave out. That restraint gives you the authority of a clear confident point of view, well-reasoned and worthy of intelligent discourse. Subscribed!

[@arethareereec61]

Agreed!!

[@Patricksargentmusic]

Well said

[@LisaIsabelle]

Don't get me wrong, I loved Streisand while growing up and I love Gaga as an adult ..... but Judy Garland is Judy Garland and no one comes close to her.

[@eviejynx4550]

Nah

[@delishme2]

I literally can't decide. I truly love the last three equally.

[@thetrainwreck1469]

I've seen the 1954 version. To me, it was way (way) overacted and the musical score was so outdated. I love Judy Garland, but I just couldn't get into it.

[@popland1977]

The thing, there was a different acting style in film at that point, it wasn't necessarily in the vain of realism. As for the score, we are talking about a film that is over 60 years old. The Man That Got Away is still an incredible number

[@nickzegarac429]

You better believe it! Viva la Garland!

[@thewalrusaurus]

I like the new one a lot, but Judy's version is still untouchable

[@morley364]

I have mixed feelings on the new one, but they're completely for personal reasons rather than a quality judgement. I've been in an abusive relationship, and there were moments when Bradley Cooper's character would say something that hit way too close to home and was too similar to things my abuser said. By the time the ending came, I was desperate to have him off the screen. I do think I would have liked the movie otherwise, but that element made it impossible for me to like Cooper or feel any investment in them being together.

[@lollmylifex3]

Morley i also have mixed feelings about the new one. Though I have not been in an abusive relationship, I could imagine Jackson’s character could make a lot of people in the audience uncomfortable. Apart from what you mentioned, I specifically took issue with his first encounters with Ally. He, a complete stranger other than the fact he’s famous, goes to her dressing room, barely says anything while trying to feel her up and “get things going” when he is completely drunk and she’s sober. Then the next time when they’re in the parking lot or wherever, he laughs at her and calls her ugly??? Says her nose is huge??? Not to mention this movie was released not too long after the whole Harvey Weinstein news. To me, it was timely bc of the opioid crisis and addressed the struggles of substance abuse/addiction. While at the same time, was untimely because of the Weinstein thing.

[@chiedu90069]

@@morley364 Yeah, these aren't popular opinions, but Bradley Cooper's character made me very uncomfortable. Even the way he dragged her onto that stage. How many times are we told something is for our own good? If I'm adult, it's my choice. ******SPOILER****** And his suicide was unspeakably cruel. Letting her find him. It was all too much. James Mason's Norman is the most sympathetic for me. The Kris Kristoferson.

[@chiedu90069]

@Michael Freed LOL Save the mansplaining for someone who can't think for himself. Characters are CREATIONS. Jackson's character is boorish one imo and he doesn't have to be. Is MY opinion hard to deal with?

[@chiedu90069]

@Michael Freed Actually, you're overcompensating for not having a point of view. Lotta words. Nothing there.

[@vengestac.5663]

I’m obsessed with the transatlantic accents in the first one

[@panterloart9180]

My favourite part of the 2018 version was how realistic the relationship felt. It wasn't all romance and roses (like any other romance movie) it felt real and complex.

[@kinmanthebrave]

It felt abusive and gross. Real, yes. But gross.

[@filmgirlLisa]

Yeah. I believed he fell in love with her the moment he met her. 1954 I believed it too, but after they kept trying to convince me.

[@Sweetthang9]

Judy's performance of The Man that Got Away is the single best scene in any of the films. The end.

[@xaviotesharris891]

Boom. Done. Yes, hands down. The only performance on film I know of that can be compared to this scene at all is Streisand's My Man at the end of Funny Girl.

[@MontagZoso]

Yep. 100 percent.

[@suzywilliams244]

Hello!!! YES!!!

[@ladyd712]

Disagree. Barbra singing With One More Look At You and Watch Closely now is by far the best of all the movies.

[@michaelgreisinger5255]

For me it's the Born In A Trunk sequence. Then I'd put The Man That Got Away.

[@michaelsmith3943]

Everyone is saying that Judy Garland's was the best. I completely agree.

[@suzywilliams244]

100%!

[@bluebeazley1390]

My favourite will always be the 1976 Barbra /Kris version. The music and the song at the end of the film are sublime and otherworldly. Underrated, Barbra being misunderstood by most people, it touches the heart in a way that the others do not. How dare you subtitle it Still born!! I'm sure most young people, if they didn't know much about pop culture now, upon first listening and watching would prefer the 1976 version - ethereal and timeless.

[@TheRealMrSnickers]

You should be very proud of yourself, they were fantastic reviews of all the films. I nominate you for the KZbin Academy Award! Great job, seriously!!

[@theninjacat7200]

Silver ByTheOz yes, fantastic video essay. loved it!

[@diankilborn1029]

I agree Silver ByTheOz. It is serendipity in action that I stumbled upon it in my travels. I was planning to acquire each version and compare it and now, when I do...I can compare my thoughts with the lucid, concise and educational observations made in this video. Good stuff, indeed!

[@JeannetteAndreaJackson]

Totally agree Silver ByThe Oz - fantastic reviews.. loved it..Be Kind Rewind !

[@endtyme1345]

There's two BEST version of this remake: the one from Judy Garland & Lady Gaga. Both showed two different generations, exhuberant personalities, musical skills and impeccable perfomances.

[@shoutinghorse]

Garland's performance in the '54 film is outstanding, James Mason was also superb. Out of the three (I have yet to see this latest one) theirs are the best acted although I think Kristofferson and Streisand did good jobs they were never going to out act G & M. This latest movie should have been made nearly a decade ago and Clint Eastwood was to direct it, Beyonce had agreed to play the female lead but Eastwood took ages trying to decide who he wanted to play the male lead. The project was put on hold, Beyonce eventually pulled out and Eastwood lost interest and made a deal with Cooper to take over the movie. The plot was to be a modern twist on the Garland/Mason roles but Cooper re wrote the script. (just a bit of trivia there for you)

[@EmoBearRights]

When Judi lost at the Oscars Groucho Marx said it was the biggest robbery since a noitrious bank heist of the time.

[@johnrobinson1132]

@@EmoBearRights "....since Brinks!"

[@EmoBearRights]

Thank you BTW there's a great video series on Best Actress winners from Be Kind Rewind that dissects why Judy was robbed. I've been binging them to the annoyance of my family.

[@christopherbrown2706]

I wonder if this would've given Beyoncé the film career she wanted

[@waynej2608]

@@EmoBearRights Groucho was absolutely right! It was robbery, plain and simple. She made millions of dollars for the studio (s), and they show their appreciation by stabbing her in the back. People like Mayer. Bastards.

[@MikaelleCartright]

Great job Lady. You really unpacked 4 films and gave me a desire to actually watch all of them. Thank you for your analysis...

[@Price_of_Fame]

The "So Far" at 11:18 made me cackle a bit. Great video!

[@Kristine_202]

Yes!!!!

[@littlemonster9689]

Same😂

[@telefan2638]

I love this kind of stuff... This was an excellent comparison of all versions of the film...!!!

[@dogstar7]

You beat me to the punch "So far" indeed Wish wish...what's that I hear? Is somebody sweeping?

[@Mapr30]

Price_of_Fame that was hilarious !!! Gaga did her thing

[@OldWorkingMan]

You missed one. "What Price Hollywood?" is the original 'A Star is Born'. It was made in 1932 and the script for the 1937 version is nearly identical to "What Price Hollywood?"

[@Anjuli50]

And it, too, was directed by George Cukor.

[@PizzaFLIX]

@@Anjuli50 and The Executive Producer was David O. Selznick, who later produced the original '37 version for Selznick International Pictures.

[@projectkj7643]

Thank you for posting this - I watched it this past weekend and loved it! I watched the Streisand version first, years ago, and always thought it was the only one...boy was I wrong. Now, I have seen "What Price Hollywood?" and then the 1937 version and both, I found, superior to Streisand's version. Not that she and Kristofferson were bad (LOVED the music) - just didn't love it. Not in a rush to see Gaga's version...I'm good for now! Oh, crap...Garland did a version. Seriously, how many times is this movie going to be made?!!

[@m.hudson7952]

You ask what we think about the new version? It affected me in the craziest way. I obsessively thought about it for almost a week after I saw it. The moment I heard the first few bars of the song Shallows I would start to cry. I obsessed about writing Bradley Cooper a letter about how incredible it was and how much it related to me.. I felt that I was in the story with them. I felt that i lived all the moments too! It is truly a remarkable movie to get into a persons head like that. I am an average woman who loves and appreciates film making but this blew my mind. It was very hard to get over the Ronald McDonald hair color on Ally but I was glad it was brown in the final scene. The Grammy scene and following scene at rehab gutted me.... I just can’t get over it. I watched the rental at home and lived it all over again. Only it was about 3 days of crying when I heard the first few bars of SHALLOWS😿😿😿 instead of a full week. Loved it...

[@kimb.5149]

I feel you lol ive watched this movie 10 times in 2 weeks and it gets me everytime

[@PeachWNK]

I thought I was alone. lol. I don’t know what about this movie got “under my skin,” but it’s one of the few movies I have purchased in a long time, and I’m considering buying the encore one. It has jumped onto my favorite movie list. I just don’t know why. Lol I have watched the 1937 one and Judy’s... I have no desire to watch Babs. It seemed self-serving, and I like her.

[@pamnielsen2630]

M. Hudson I felt the same. Even now I still feel it. My Family thinks I am crazy. I love Bradley Cooper and have seen most of his movies. I really think he should have won the Academy Award. I did like Bohemian Rhapsody but how easy to copy a existing character. Nice to see I am not the only person who feels this way. My observation was everyone thought it was only a “remake” and didn’t understand the depth of characters in this version.

[@glenngordon8940]

I love it, too. How did L Gaga so perfectly portray a shy, self-deprecating nobody? How did Cooper become a mega rock star for a movie ? How could he direct the film AND act the part? I bought and viewed it on my 8-inch Kindle and I couldn't take my eyes off the screen.

[@carogermanotta]

Same for me. I just can’t listen to Shallow without crying

[@lyndachabane1931]

The Kris and Barbara version of A Star is Born, is in my eyes the best ever. A phenomenal performance from both. I spent 2 weeks driving around Ireland in my soft top Midget playing it over and over again. It holds so many special memories for me, a true classic.

[@TheAngWel]

I agree 💯%. I cried like a baby at the end- you know the death of John Norman. Kris Kristofferson did fantastic playing the character

[@harushouse]

I think Judy Garland's will always be my favourite. It always breaks my heart and especially since she was so similar to the Norman character

[@niekklaver3030]

I never really watched something from Judy Garland, but that breakout scene was so emotional and truely hit the feels. What an amazing woman

[@scarr5666]

Niek Klaver You should check out Judy's version. A true classic.

[@julz3tt3]

Yes Judy was an icon so playing that role was perfect for her and she acted so well.

[@redbeard36]

I saw the restored and remastered version of the Judy Garland version which included dialogue that had been lost. It was great. What makes this movie really tragic is that Garland basically followed the Norman Mane trajectory in her real life; though the rising stars were her daughters.

[@lizzibean1]

wow I haven't come across a woman doing these types of film video essays on youtube in forever! I'm so happy I did! I really liked how in depth you were and how you cited sources well- plus the descriptions of the time periods were super helpful. Good job, keep It up!

[@JW-oc5ck]

Well said, I agree!

[@gadamis]

I suggest taking a look at Contrapoints' channel.

[@thejohnlennonsongbook4700]

Yes, THIS. Agreed.

[@linaaviles430]

check out Screenprism

[@badquestion4785]

Lindsey Ellis

[@MrPhilip2468]

There’s a movie from 1932 called “What Price Hollywood?” In a lot of ways it’s the original a star is born, it’s basically the same plot structure as the new versions, I’d definitely recommend watching it if you can find it!

[@DonKrouskop-qy8hb]

Indeed, George Cukor directed it, and thus declined when he was offered the 1937 STAR because he felt it was too similar.

[@lauriestonehaskell1687]

I thought I would be more greatly compelled by Lady Gaga's singing and acting but interestingly enough I was much more drawn in by Bradley Cooper. He was really quite amazing.

[@fliontakis7838]

Agree..I thought Cooper was amazing...

[@emilyaleece]

I thought the same thing! Gaga was no doubt absolutely amazing and really showcased her talent, but I was truly captivated by Bradley. He was so raw in it

[@sillywabbit5842]

That's because gaga is entirely boring.

[@MinimumWageREI]

I was really taken by their chemistry when they were on together. Gaga was a bit empty in the scenes without Cooper, but there was a real pull when they were together.

[@missdee4927]

Gaga was good and loved her voice, but I was more compelled by Bradley Cooper too. He was amazing in the 2018 version! HIs blue eyes are so expressive. The way he looks at her in the La Vie en Rose scene. Amazing!

[@christopherjared2541]

The 2018 version was soooo gooood! I'm predicting Gaga will be nominated for best lead actress, Bradley will WIN best lead actor, will also receive a nomination for best director, Sam will be nominated for best supporting actor, and a WIN for the soundtrack

[@kevlow9494]

Agrees with all of this.

[@kevlow9494]

Think this could win Best Picture?

[@jayneuman3457]

not with that red wig they gave her.

[@user-oj7bn5fq4m]

Disagree. Most likely Rami Malek will win lead actor as Freddie Mercury.

[@donnalynn2]

I think you're stretching with Sam Elliott. He was in the movie all of 10 mins. Fantastic movie and awards are due for Cooper and Gaga but not Elliott,

[@loferx]

This Will be a great contender at next year's awards season. For sure Cooper will be tough competition in acting, as I believe Gaga will definetly get some Award for her composing work, and a certain nomination in acting ( I bet she wins)

[@Ltenney1]

Lo Fernandes I’m predicting like Garland & Mason and Streisand & Kristofferson before them, Gaga & Cooper will win Golden Globes for acting!

[@cynthiareynolds3432]

I used to say this or that movie or that actor is going to be nominated or win an award. I don't do that because you can't tell anymore. But there is a reason they pushed this to awards season. Plus the movie will win any fan award, that's for sure.

[@clarkyyy7857]

More please!!! Like in depth

[@fkd1963]

I saw the film. It’s good, not great. Gaga fine. Cooper boring.

[@voozoo1606]

OUCH !!!!!!!!!!@@fkd1963

[@kristalpillay9991]

The 1937 version was always my favorite...by far, but I haven't seen the 2018 one yet. I think they should've of called her Vicky or Victoria in the new one instead of Ally, as a nod to the older movies...without having to use Esther.

[@haintedhouse3052]

i like all 4 versions, but the 1937 version has some comically dated scenes, the most obvious being Vicki Lester being able to take Norman home by just showing up in court "Yes I recognize you Miss Lester." and all is well and Norman gets to go home scott free. yeah that would happen today.

[@barbarak2836]

@@haintedhouse3052 It's "dated" because it was made almost 85 years ago.

[@Viewer92136]

There are still babies named Ester. I know a couple, and looked it up. In 2022, (2023 is not completed) it was the 203 most popular name in the USA for girls.

[@michaelrecycle9838]

For what it's worth, Judy Garland's performance is one of my favourite performances, Oscar or no Oscar

[@LivvinITNick]

Judys version of the film stands out completely in the best way. It always makes me so emotional.

[@chrisserafimov9034]

What a great and informative video! I watched the new "A Star Is Born" two days ago and was blown away by the way it deals with serious topics and by the perfect acting, cinematography and direction! It pays tribute to the previous movies but still manages to be unique on its own.

[@agc2477]

You left out the original, "What Price Hollywood?" 1932 starring Constance Bennett.

[@notgoodatnormal]

Yes, I was thinking this also. Much lesser known, but that was what the '37 version is based on. I loved it, had the book also.

[@kevinbergin9971]

Thanks, remember seeing it on TCM and forgetting the title here.

[@fredatipton5957]

A Star is Born-Barbara and Kris best version. Unlikely couple but worked. When it first came out I went to watch it 8 times in video and I own the DVD.

[@YatesNYC]

Freda Tipton - When I saw the Streisand version I was 12 and I thought it was the best movie I had ever seen ( I was already a huge Streisand fan by that age). After I saw the movie, I played the soundtrack until the vinyl wore out. When I saw he movie again twenty years later, it made me cringe in many different places. The music and the performances of the music is stellar but the rest of it, I am sad to say, is worthy of the ridicule it received from critics. Out of the entire cast, I think the best and most honest acting was from Kris Kristofferson.

[@nicole9volt]

8:48 Jesus... With that short hair she looks JUST LIKE her daughter 😮

[@captngorton7306]

I thought the same

[@gracjackVEVO]

i think if judy wouldn't struggle with health she would look exactly like liza

[@kathleenmckenzie6261]

And I just noticed in this video that Liza inherited her mother's speaking voice as well. Singing, not so much.

[@danekeating5224]

You seem surprised that a child would resemble their own parent. What did you expect... Jesus.

[@KayKay114]

@@danekeating5224 people will be surprised that siblings look alike nevermind lmfao

[@Kimteach2011]

This is a very intelligent analysis of all "A Star Is Born" films. People will argue which one they like best while I appreciate all the films for telling this story for their generation. Gaga better win an Oscar for the music while being nominated for acting and I see Bradley winning for directing or acting.

[@blackpinups]

There's a prequel to A Star is Born franchise. It's called What Price Hollywood (1932). It stars Constance Bennett and Lowell Sherman.

[@Jongen.]

That's not a prequel, and something cannot be a prequel if it's made before the original from 1937. So the What Price Hollywood is a stand alone movie, with other characters, but with mostly the same plot.

[@sjansenak]

I loved the 1954 version but I cried and cried at the end of the 2018 movie. I thought both of the main characters were amazing. Loved this version more.

[@davidmoreno7581]

Funny I liked 2018 even though I thought it was too long and lingered too long so that I didn't feel very emotional by the end of it. But, I did appreciate their performances the best.

[@Kristine_202]

This is great. Thank you! I'm a HUGE Bradley Cooper fan and a HUGE Lady Gaga fan, so I've been waiting for this movie for years. I finally saw it yesterday. I think they both gave Oscar-worthy performances. I cried, and cried, and cried. But one thing I didn't except to hit me so hard is how much I related to Jackson. Everyone is talking about Gaga and how amazing she is, and she is, but Bradley Cooper broke my heart. I appreciate how you pointed out Judy Garland's personal story. Personally, I identified with Jackson much more than Ally. (I'm female, BTW. Sometimes I forget that you can't tell that by my name.) I would like to think that the standards of "traditional beauty" are breaking and anyone with talent can be a "star," but when it comes to addiction....Nothing has changed. It still spreads like wildfire, especially in the entertainment industry, it still takes the best performers way too early. Four different films, four different time periods, but one central theme: The monster that is addiction wins in the end. You can change everything else about the story, but you can't change that.

[@USAjock9]

Bradley Cooper is to obvious and trying to hard to be Kris Kirstropherson ie Bab's version on the long in the tooth "Star is born'" retooled film/story. The chemistry between the two stars is a miss match and poorly executed. A more original retelling would have been with Beyonce as the films leading lady which was a one point moving forward with Clint Eastwood directing the film. That was all set and then Clint went to the republican convention and bad mouthed president Obama in 20l2. That did not sit well with Lady B and she quickly dropped out of the film citing scheduling issues. Those close to her said she was furious with Clint Eastwood and could not put aside her feeling and do the film with him as the director. Lady Ga, Ga fan's are over joyed by her performance but sadly, she is average at best. It is probably enough to get her a Oscar nomination? Thus far this is a weak year for films that being said, Glenn Close is truly fantastic as per usual in "The wife". Miss Close has been nominated 6 times for an Oscar but has NEVER taken home Oscar. This is her year . Sorry Ga, Ga fan's........ Maybe she can try another rock & roll remark with "The Rose". That remake is being financed by Fox.

[@arx754]

George: It's a simple plot, so there's no such thing as a "re-telling" of this movie. Your attempt to weave politics into all of this has just left you with an incoherent mess. You seem to be saying that if Beyonce played the lead female role, a different man played the male lead, Eastwood directed it, and there was an entirely different script, it would be a BETTER movie... lol. Huh? It's a simple plot with universal appeal, so I have no doubt there will be more re-makes of it in the future.

[@sanjamatsuri]

You must be kiddig about Gaga's so called talent and Oscar..OMG...

[@arx754]

Sanya: No, not at all. You don't share my opinion, which is just fine, so why don't you just write that? Why the "snark"?

[@RealLukeWilson]

Wow, I had no idea that continually remaking this film was so relevant. I hadn’t heard of it before until the new one came out, and when I learned that it was the fourth iteration I just rolled my eyes and scoffed, thinking there’s already too many movies with the same conceptual basis (like Begin Again or Music & Lyrics) to justify another straight-up remake. But this video made me actually want to watch at least the Garland and Streisand versions, if not all of them. Thanks for making this!

[@D1300H6A]

There is NO doubt in my mind; Miss Garland "knocked it out of the park". There is no comparison. From the song "The Man that Got Away" to the Born in the Trunk sequence, she soars like an eagle with outstanding artistic success. She should have won the Oscar for this movie; and, the Academy should have given her an Honorary Oscar in the years that followed the release of this picture.

[@telefan2638]

I love this kind of stuff... This was an excellent comparison of all versions of the film...!!!

[@jimmyl324]

Judy should have gotten an Oscar.Her acting was heartfelt throughout.I’m reading the book by Lorna Luft. It was a major disappointment for her family she didn’t win.

[@voozoo1606]

SHE GOT HER OSCAR FOR T W O OZ !! SADLY , IT WAS A TINY TINY TINY OSCAR !!!!!!!!!

[@TheVerbalVolley]

The Garland version is a cinematic masterpiece. Judy should have won an Academy Award for her incredible performance. Her scenes were classic, and you really felt for her. How many people remember Grace Kelly for winning the Academy Award for 1954. I don't even remember the name of the movie she won for! But Garland's "ASIB" is considered one of the best movies ever made, although it was butchered by edits because it was felt that the movie was too long. I think that from 30-45 minutes of the movie were sliced from it during its theatrical run, which created a kind of choppy feel. Most of it has been restored (with the actual film at times being replaced by still photographs with voice overs, because the actual filmed scenes are forever lost to time. Garland was robbed by Hollywood politics. Hers was the best version, followed by the original. I haven't yet seen the Cooper/Gaga version, so I don't know which to place third and fourth...the newest version or the Streisand version.

[@sazzieb1]

The Country Girl

[@TheVerbalVolley]

+ Saskia Bruce - Oh.. such a classic! LOL!. Thanks for providing the information. It just proves that Judy was ROBBED of the Oscar that year. Her performance, as well as the movie, are now considered cinema classics.

[@sazzieb1]

@@TheVerbalVolley Indeed. The man that got away- perfection.

[@eloiserosas7859]

Grace Kelly won for the Country GIrl, and she was fabulous. Coincidentally, she plays the wife of an alcoholic, Bing Crosby.

[@TheVerbalVolley]

Obviously, not as fabulous as Judy Garland. Even now, 60+ years later, many feel that Judy was robbed, and I tend to agree with them. Garland's performance was so powerful and intense. Grace Kelly's movie is forever lost to the memory of time, while "A Star is Born" seems to live on eternally.

[@kcdad2806]

Interesting take on the franchise. The woman's story becomes less because the man's story must get bigger. If not bigger, more detailed, more nuanced, more... excused. No one had to apologize for Norman Maine. He was just a privileged, entitled, over the hill, narcissist. Jackson on the hand...

[@alalalala57]

Because every fictional character is an excused person. We wouldn't tolerate half of these people if we suddenly see them in real life. Unless, like fictional characters, we get to know them and they become a part of us. An "excused" person. And heck, after 4 different iterations focusing on the double-edged stardom of a female artist, taking that same focus and giving it to the male character isn't bad.

[@kinmanthebrave]

Jackson is the worst. The new film is an excellent depiction of an abusive relationship. I just wish it had been billed that way.

[@joshuaschoenman8212]

@@kinmanthebrave how so. Seems more of just an unfortunate relationship to me

[@kinmanthebrave]

@@joshuaschoenman8212 Well, she gets treated pretty badly by all the men in her life: her dad, his friends, her best friend. So it's easy to imagine that she would gravitate toward an abusive relationship. He makes her feel bad any time she finds success. The first time they have sex, she is literally asleep. Those things come to mind. Totally realistic, but not at all romantic.

[@Zeverinsen]

@@kinmanthebrave Well, it is what it is.

[@judyalcatraz918]

personally my favorite is judy garlands version.it's an absolute masterpiece ..judy shows why she is one of the greatest entertainers that ever walked this earth...I will always say judy was robbed of the Oscar one of the biggest upsets in academy award history .

[@legend9948]

thank god we have the true version and not the one Jack Warner brutally butchered

[@d.e.b.b5788]

Yeah, yeah yeah. Every couple of years, another greatest entertainer is touted by the slobbering, star struck fans. We have to stop canonizing entertainers of all types, it's way out of hand. They're basically the jesters of the court, only now on a huge stage or screen. For every Judy Garland, there are a dozen equally good actresses/singers/dancers who never got 'discovered'.

[@popland1977]

In terms of stars that did get discovered, she was one of the greatest. Athletes are routinely praised, we can do the same for entertainers

[@d.e.b.b5788]

What we need to do, is praise all star teachers. No, not all of them are good. But some are spectacular, and they certainly deserve to be reminded of that. And I'm an e.r. nurse, nobody says a damn thing to me after I keep their family member from dying.

[@cindyp9]

@@d.e.b.b5788 Garland and Streisand are singers that are way better than Gaga or others today.

[@davidpellegrene1133]

I love all of the versions of "A Star Is Born" but Judy Garland's was and is a masterpiece. Judy was robbed of an Oscar by Grace Kelly's performance in The Country Girl. How many remember that performance??? The New Version is wonderful with amazingly talented performers. Still, it's Judy Garland's version for me that remains the greatest version. Anyone who can do a scene where she feels completely broken because she is witnessing the person she loves most literally destroyed, and then 60 seconds later pulls herself together as the shining, professional talent that she is, takes something almost unheard of to do. It's not just one of the best scenes in this movie, but one of the best acting scenes in movie history. Of course, just my opinion. Sorry for the run-on sentence.

[@markallen4356]

Garland whom I do like generally belts out every number in the movie,it just becomes tiresome after awhile.she was already a drug addict and alcoholic by 1954 and it really shows.she never convinces she is an innocent in Hollywood the way Janet Gaynor does.

[@doxma33]

Yes, it took a lot of suspension of disbelief to see Judy as a naif, but her performance was so compelling that you have to give it to her.

[@davidpellegrene1133]

@Karen Carpenter That's true, but I have yet to see someone do it as well. Again, just my opinion. BTW, Karen Carpenter is my favorite female singer.

[@anthonyberry106]

David Pellegrene

[@davidpellegrene1133]

@@anthonyberry106 What?

[@albireadingromance]

I love the 2018 movie. It was excellent.

[@no1nestandsalone387]

Albi M it made me cry so hard I was shaking. So good but so sad

[@hs6643]

@Adelaide McMillan She doesn't play herself at all. Maybe do your research before stating something like that.

[@TECfan1]

@Adelaide McMillan Um.....that's the point of a Star is Born. They're always kind of loosely about the star themselves. That's what's always made them great.

[@PerpetualArt]

No doubt that AM was a little tense in the way her comment sounded. Adelaide is right, Stephanie was basically playing herself. She did alright, but by the way people commented on the trailers, it was if she was definitely going to win best actress or something. It was a great movie, but it did follow the 76 version pretty close. I did enjoy it, but I didn't really like that she went from a rock/pop singer to a kiddy pop singer, and that part of the movie was in fact a bit boring to me. Bradley Cooper did an awesome job acting as well as singing.

[@juliencastle2953]

Adelaide McMillan: She plays a singer but an hour and a half of the film are "regular" scenes, not musical ones and in this scene she's a shy, insecure girl who's going through a lot. Yeah the concert scene etc were close to her but all the rest wasn't at all imo.

[@mkholmes878]

SHE WON AN OSCAR 🙌🏻

[@CeeLiberty]

The 1954 version is the superior movie. The chemistry alone between Garland and Mason is so wonderful! Thank you for this video! PS....majority of men would not like to be called by their wife's last name no matter the year or the propaganda that pushes it.

[@bobbyv879]

Yes I definitely agree the very best.

[@nubianqueen4437]

Abosolutely, everyone needs to see Judy Garland & James Mason's version. I haven't see this version yet, so it'll be interesting to compare the two.

[@PerpetualArt]

I think the 54 version is too long due to the musical part. And I loathe the part where she's acting for him in the living room. Ugh!!

[@EricAriel5]

Judy is the holy grail of entertainers.

[@PerpetualArt]

I love Judy in Meet me in St. Louis, and obviously The Wizard Of Oz.

[@AndreiGromit]

Thank you for posting this video. I enjoyed your brief analysis of the four films very much and look forward to your future posts.

[@voozoo1606]

DUDE , U SEEM TO BE VERY COOL !!! WHAT DID U THINK OF THE 1960'S MOVIE Valley Of The Dolls ?? HOW DO U COMPARE JOHN NORMAN HOWARD'S LIFE WITH KURT DONALD COBAIN'S LIFE ????????? I SEE THE 1976'S A Star Is Born AS A PREQUEL TO THE 1990'S ROCK AND ROLL LIFE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@chocolatesouljah]

Same here. I clicked subscribe with a quickness!

[@arthurboehm]

It's doubtful that anyone will--or can--beat Garland's extraordinary blend of vocal expressiveness, pathos and show-biz know-how, the years of figuring out how to make her movie moments land as they so movingly did. The pro-of-pros and so much more!

[@MsTimothyswan]

I have not seen any of the film versions of A Star Is Born. Yet - to have Janet Gaynor, Judy Garland, Barbara Streisand and Lady Gaga all recognized within the same video is a real stroke of sheer genius

[@daviddaniel3126]

Nice review. It helps the story versions make sense to me. One note: Sam Elliot says "Music is about how the artist sees the same 12 NOTES" not octaves. An octave is the same note at a higher or lower frequency. Sam Elliot's character was saying that its how musicians deal with the limitations of 12 basic units of sound that inform their artistry. We all work from the same basic material but the expression of that material is limitless. Again, thank you. I now have more to talk about with my girlfriend, since its her favorite movie of all time.

[@richardmcleod5967]

The first actual movie version of "A Star Is Born" with Constance Bennett is called "What Price Hollywood?". The remaining 4 versions were called "What Price Hollywood? All the 5 versions (including "What Price Hollywood?) had their initial influence based on the book "The Skyrocket" written by the noted Hollywood Columnist, first woman news-paper woman and "Mother Confessor to the Stars", Adela Rogers St. John's. Adela Rogers St. Johns was not a novice to Hollywood script writing as she wrote many, including one film "The Single Standard" starring Greta Garbo. Her father, Earl Rogers was the most noted Attorney in California at the time and he died an early death from alcoholism in a decrepit old Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. That sorrow in her life led to writing the book and her connection with Hollywood led to the rising star and the declining star theme that runs through all of the various versions. The original idea came from the relationship of Greta Garbo and John Gilbert. He helped Garbo get the salary from MGM, as she was unknown at the time. As the relationship progressed, Garbo's star rose in Hollywood and Gilbert's declined due to many reasons including alcoholism, which led to an early death for John Gilbert.

[@kristafulbright5301]

Richard McLeod, thank you for sharing this. It is fascinating and I think the most important view historically speaking of how the story originated based on life and evolved over time!!! Great!

[@richardmcleod5967]

I have been a fan of old Hollywood all my life. I attended many of the events at the County Museum in Los Angeles and years back was able to meet many of the older stars now deceased. I was able to hear Olivia de Havilland once in Los Angeles and she is still with us, but about the only one. That list includes Loretta Young, Mickey Rooney and many others. I was able to personally meet Luise Rainer on 2 occasions and see so many of the Stars now gone. It is somewhat sad for me. I was also a fan of the writings of Adela Rogers St. Johns (partly because of that connection) and have many of her books that are personally autographed. That collection includes "The Skyrocket". Adela Rogers St. Johns was Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1970 and appeared as herself in Warren Beatty's film "REDS". I also have many of the older Photoplay Magazines when Adela Rogers St. Johns was writing for Lawrence Quirk, the best editor of Photoplay before he sold the magazine in 1933. It surprises me that the information about her influence with "A Star Is Born" is so little known. Most people know about the first talkie movie "What Price Hollywood", but have no idea there was actually a silent film (from 1926), which sadly no longer exists based on "The Skyrocket". it is amazing how this story has remained alive all these years, but then again, alcoholism, problems in marriages and what can happen when someone becomes famous are always interesting subjects and will always be with us regardless of the time period in which they occurred. Thanks for your comments as I appreciate them.@@kristafulbright5301

[@NickLaslett]

Richard McLeod , glad you mentioned this in such detail. I was just scanning the comments in the hope some one had. A bit disappointing that only a tiny amount of research is need to find this out. I knew from my interest in 1954 version. I don’t think it’s that obscure.

[@lisacooks]

Women did every job in the early film biz. There is a great book by Cari Beauchamp about how much power women had in film until after WWII. It's called "Without Lying Down, Francis Marion and the Powerful Women of Early Hollywood". It was made into a really great documentary by TCM. Adela Rogers St. Johns is obviously in the story. Rogers St. Johns went to my church and was still writing when I was a little kid.

[@paulbundy9061]

I’d also heard Colleen (neé Kathleen) Moore served as inspiration. She was the original flapper, an actress who made comedy sophisticated, starring in F. Scott Fitzgerald adaptions. Her first husband swam out to sea. She later retired from acting, and remarried, becoming a mother to her second husband’s children. She became involved in the stock trade, and wrote a book for women and how they could make it in the stocks industry. You can also see her stunning fairy castle at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry.

[@marterisher2335]

I’ve seen all of them multiple times ... the 76 version probably 15 times. But I REALLY liked this new version precisely because of the back stories for both principals. Looking back from the freshness of today, Streisand seems affectatious. But that could be the boldness you attribute to that time. Gaga felt natural and consistent with her back story. Cooper was a revelation!!! Amazing vocals. Loved the music too!

[@cindyp9]

Liked what you said about the 76 version. That's my era. Streisand in this movie was a role model for many of us up and coming singers. Too many women today shrink back in insecurity and they don't need to.

[@moonstone1159]

The 1976 version was the best, imv, with best acting, singing, songs, and a fresh storyline. Also, Barbra is awesome in any movie!

[@principeturandot4593]

I've seen them all. And while it all comes down to preference at the end of the day, for me the Streisand 1976 ASIB is the greatest. Streisand is - by far - the more natural and gifted actress. I believe her and there are no dull moments with her on the screen. It's that magnetic quality that a gifted actor has, like Brando or Garbo. Kris was a brilliant burnt-out rock star too. Together, Streisand and Kristofferson made an electric duo and broke your heart at the end.

[@luzmella100]

i agree!! and all the f'n in 2018 movie is not good to my ears. sorry.

[@renateseldon3769]

Barbra and Kris, number 1

[@cindyp9]

You are completely right!

[@wengfong6742]

Mithrandir Eruantion , so much of the critical backlash towards Barbra 1976, was directed towards Barbra herself. The press hated her! It was the fans and public that fell in love with the movie and made it a big hit regardless. Although the movie would be better if Barbra had a couple more songs to sing. Whenever she sings, the movie just soars

[@MsJeannie68]

Yep totally agree I loved the film and hope someone buys me the CD but you just cant beat Streisand and there was far more acting from both starts

[@deaded5040]

Judy Garland's will always snd forever stand as the best and predominant version, despite what anyone says or thinks.

[@MariaVosa]

Do we want a video of that? It's like you don't know us AT ALL! Of course we do!!

[@abc92800]

MariaVosa um im still waiting for her to do more Best Actress videos... welp😜

[@mesaklalropuia1140]

Xena!?!

[@coricoo_247]

Agreed! I'm new here but really love how you built this comparison!! I'd love to see more!

[@vanessak69]

Came down here to say that. Yes, of course!

[@luisalbertomaresyanez5998]

YES!!

[@jlf1309]

The version with Kris Kristofferson and Barbara Streisand is absolutely the best! I could watch it over and over! 👍

[@kellyrob4296]

Oh God, I’m glad someone agrees with me!!! I wrote a paragraph above about it and I was sure I’d catch hell! But, yes, IT’s So Good!! ♥️

[@raregem84]

My absolute favorite version. They both did amazing playing those roles❤️

[@martinpenwald94]

I got the impression that Jackson's continuous struggle with substances was also caused by the fact that he fails in telling Ally what he really thinks about what she's letting the producers make out of her, and also the unresolved tension between the love he feels for her and the jealousy for her success. It's also important to mention that Kris Kristofferson was maybe the one actor that had the biggest problems dealing with alcohol and drugs at the time he made the movie, and maybe the lesser background he was given was due to the knowledge of the audience about the personal life of the actor, as if he was playing himself.

[@Maiasatara]

I think you've got it right - some of his failure to get sober has to do with watching what he fell in love with (her storytelling) become vapid pop songs about ass that are just one big hook with a single lyric, "Why did you do that do that do that do that do that to me?" Though it's genius that right before that the words are "This isn't me." No kidding? He tries to bring it up and she angrily tells him to fuck off. So he's too scared to rock the boat and she's WAY over-defending her now vapid music. In every version I'm not buying how quickly a mega-star falls for a nobody but Bradley Cooper sells it best in the way he looks at her - if everyone had someone look at them like that I swear we'd have world peace.

[@joaodorjmanolo]

YES, EXACTLY.

[@katokamakazie5549]

I like this commentary box. It is safe her lol. I also loved the scene where they meet and hw he looks at her as if he is mesmerised by her, it was adorable to wtch. Even tho tht shit never happens in real life.

[@TheAngryHappyMaskSalesman]

To me, it's Judy Garland's version that was the best. I cried during so much of it and it was so magical.

[@wildsmiley]

The only A Star is Born movie I’ve seen is the one that is probably my favorite musical ever, the 1954 classic starring Judy Garland in her greatest role. She was robbed at the Oscars that year which is a shame because she owned that role like few have ever owned a role. I hope to see all of them someday (not really interested in Barbra Streisand’s ‘70s rock version though). I’ve heard this new one is really good and I’m glad.

[@gioramirez5964]

wildsmiley the new one is great 😍

[@cindyp9]

I haven't seen Gaga's version, but the Streisand version is spectacular. You can't beat Streisand's voice.

[@jaxguy52]

Everyone who has or hasn't seen Judy's version go back and watch. Watch intently at the scene when she tells Charles Bickford she is leaving her career behind for James Mason. That sequence alone was worthy of the Oscar that she was robbed of.

[@gmfm2601]

It's worth watching the Streisand version, acting & music are phenomenal. Still my favorite. Lady Gaga did an excellent acting job but I just like the music & acting in the 76 version the best. Only my opinion.

[@edithcarter3554]

Music Class I so agree. Streisand’s voice is incomparable and to me, she is the greatest star.

[@sobekmania]

All the actresses did great with their respective Esther roles, but Judy undeniably stands out from all of them. Judy, factoring in her upsetting experiences with Hollywood and addiction, takes on Esther as a woman who loves singing but does feel insecure about her talent, while also managing to be both Norman and Esther onscreen. It's criminal that Judy didn't receive an Oscar for her role; Hollywood treated her horribly.

[@rossmerchant1431]

That version is operating on so many meta levels. She's essentially playing a younger version of herself against a character who is basically her present self. And there is a scene where we watch her watching herself in a film singing a slightly fictionalized version of her childhood.

[@lovemychacha]

I'm going to be 60 in Dec. and I have seen all these versions of A Star Is Born throughout my lifetime many times! I absolutely LOVE the new one with Bradley and Gaga! I have seen it 3 times already and bought the soundtrack! It is a must see of 2018 going into 2019. I think it's​ going to Kill at all the award shows!

[@chazdesimone7306]

Ontrend50 Sandy Alderson Gotcha beat-I’ve seen it 5 times (always taking a different person who I know will enjoy it) and I’m not done! Lady Gaga is great as a pop artist but when I saw her sing jazz ballads with Tony Bennett I was hooked. And she lives up to the title of the new film - a movie star is indeed born!

[@jacole439]

Thanks for that. I have not seen the newest release, I have been very hesitant about it. I am the same age as you, and your comment is definitely persuasive for me to go see the new version.

[@meplenn]

Bless your soul Ma'am. Gaga fans here.

[@patriciacarey3380]

Each "A Star is Born" movie depicts an era which for the year it was made, appealed to that audience I've seen all of them as I too am 60 years old. I wasn't yet born when the first two movies were made but think Janet Gaynor's roll was understated which reflects the point that women didn't have too many rights at that time. Judy Garland was a great actress for that time period but I always felt she overacted, perhaps because women needed a voice or were finding their voice. I can relate better to the '70's depiction because there was the women's movement etc and I lived through that, as well as the 2018 version because drugs and alcohol etc are so prevalent. Therefore I believe each movie has a specific audience and is time sensitive to the year it was released. I am a big fan of GaGa and I can't wait to see what her next acting roll will be.

[@MsJeannie68]

Good for you, Im 75 and a Streisand fan but loved the film Well done to both of them.

[@s_lee]

The latest one is my favourite from what I've seen of the others. The actors were incredible, the soundtrack was breathtaking and I was bawling by the end

[@duffusus02]

What a wonderful review of all four versions of this great movie. You have captured the differences without implying that one movie was better than the other and that unbias in movie reviewing is very rare. Well done again on a great presentation

[@EricCoomerMusic]

This was such a good video. When it started, I thought, “18 minutes? I’ll just watch a little bit.” But it was so excellent, I want to watch more of your videos now!

[@EricCoomerMusic]

(I’ll even forgive the whole 12 octaves instead of 12 notes thing. That’s how much I liked it!)

[@Riip2]

For me, the best of 1937's version is the chemistry between March and Gaynor. They're the best couple of all versions, they seems genuinely in love, and the way that he looks to her is beautiful and tender, what makes the situation more tragic: however his alcoolism, we can see that he has problems but he's a good guy, and we hope that he wins his demons and construct a new life with her. And the truth is that March remains the most handsome of Normans, more handsome than Cooper himself. Ah, and the first of all versions of the movie, "What price Hollywood", of George Cukor, was forgot in this video.

[@josephsolis3018]

In the 1976 version with Barbra Streisand, she really wanted to cast Elvis Presley as her leading man (Kris Kristofferen was the leading man). The manager for Elvis Presley known as Colonel Tom Parker wouldn't have it; he wanted more money and more control like he had over Elvis. His management commission was 50% of anything that Elvis earned.

[@julz3tt3]

That would have been epic

[@Anjuli50]

I think the analysis here is excellent, but I have to place my vote for the 1954 version. Because it was a time of glitz and glamor and "Father Knows Best" sensibility (hiding the racism, sexism, Red Scare reality of America) the moments when Judy gets raw -- her scene in her dressing room with Oliver Niles, or in her TV room with Danny, or the moment when Norman accidentally backhands her at the Oscars -- and most notably, the moment when an hysterical fan pulls the veil from the face of a grieving Esther, which really happened to a star in the 1920s) are that much more shocking. The backdrop of "civility" and "class" make these painful moments far more edgy than they would be in 2018, where life is generally pretty raw, and anything goes. Also, much as I love Gaynor and Streisand (and I do) no one beats Judy for sheer emotional power, vulnerability and openness, because she acted from her own storehouse of pain and despair. She was a Method actress long before there was a Method. (You only have to watch "The Wizard of Oz" to see that!) The scene in the dressing room, where she breaks down over Norman's alcoholism being followed immediately by the requirement for her to go back to the sound stage and shoot the close-ups of a very upbeat musical number, is a sequence which lays bare the artificiality of the movie world and its penchant for ignoring reality -- even the reality its employees have to live through. Plus, the dialogue in this version can't be improved upon. Watch the scene between Norman Maine (James Mason) and the maitre d' in the Coconut Grove -- the cynicism and blatant sexism in this scene are subtle but raw, too. "Too young. I had a very young week last week." "No, Mr. Maine. Pasadena. Leave it alone." "She hit me over the head with a bottle. They only hit me once." Yet this movie has a charm that the others also lack. The restored "proposal" scene is a case in point. When Norman asks Esther why she won't marry him, she sings to the backup music "You drink too much." When he says "Suppose I become absolutely dependable on all occasions?" she responds "You wouldn't be Norman Maine. I'd be marrying the wrong man!" Cukor also adds astonishing touches of artistry to this movie (which he considered his masterpiece.) Watch for the homage to Degas in the two-second clip of ballet dancers warming up behind a white curtain with a jaded stagehand standing by ignoring them. Note the foreshadowings in Norman's tuxedo shirt lying lifeless on the floor, looking like the dead body he will eventually become washing ashore in the surf. (Similar foreshadowings in his shooting on location in the ocean, and his valet saying "He won't see anything for weeks but the stuff he hates: water!) Read the excellent Ronald Haver book for more of this. Cukor's 1954 movie was really a remake of his 1932 pre-code "What Price Hollywood?", which Be Kind Rewind doesn't mention in this KZbin piece. I could go on forever -- the 1954 A Star Is Born is one of my favorite movies -- could you tell?

[@scarr5666]

Excellent reply and well thought-out.

[@johndeleon7137]

A Masterpiece. All neah sayers are just jealous.

[@joebaileycole2783]

The one film left out is the one with the original story: "What Price Hollywood?" It's a pre-Code movie with Constance Bennet as the ingenue, produced by David Selznick, directed by George Cukor. The screenplay is by Gene Fowler, Rowland Brown, Jane Murfin, and Ben Markson, which itself is based on a story by Adela Rogers St. Johns and Louis Stevens. I find it a much more interesting story. And there's a great acting lesson in it when Mary Evans (Constance Bennett) practices her lines for her first break. You witness an actress evolving.

[@flordeloto944]

I haven't seen the 2018 version because is not in my country yet, but on the previous ones I gotta say my favorite is the one with Garland. My favorite soundtrack is the one with Barbra 100%, but I feel the film with Garland was the most complete one as a whole.

[@hmh9661]

Stefanie Mago Please remember to thanks Paul Williams for the 70’s soundtrack. He wrote all the songs.

[@elizabethyuen1804]

🔵 A Star ls Born full movie available : { t.co/6hFyBQlv8W ] Unglaublicher film! Sehr zu empfehlen, es auszuprobieren!

[@deanasophia2468]

Go on putlocker on google and it's on there

[@flordeloto944]

Heather Greentree Yes, of course 🙂

[@brigidkeogh1497]

Stefanie Mago b

[@amjPeace]

James Mason's performance brought me to tears.

[@tristan8562]

Wow! What a fantastic analysis. Please do more!! ✨

[@miguelmartinespejoramirez3311]

¿Was “The Artist” movie ( starring Jean Dujardin”) a version of “A Star is Born”?

[@josephinewinter]

i'm intrigued by the 37 & 54 performances, Garland's obviously but that Esther Blodgett feels real - the sturdiness of someone from the backwoods who has to travel alone to where only weekly letters will support her, no phone calls (rich people only then), a very expressive face, both vulnerability and hardiness from interior discipline... nice

[@XX-gy7ue]

THE 1930'S MOVIE IS PURE , DROP-DEAD , OVER-THE-TOP CHARM AND IS ENCHANTING ! AND HAS THAT BEAUTIFUL BACKGROUND​ MUSIC , WHICH IS STUNNING !

[@horsenlady]

Loved the movie. The chemistry between Gaga and Bradley was amazing. I think this was a beautiful love story tragedy. This wasn't Hollywood's idea of love this was a story about real love - til death due you part love.

[@eduardodifarnecio2336]

The only thing I’d add to this wonderfully edifying and insightful post is that the plot for this really started with Fitzgerald’s novel Tender is the Night. It’s not about stars. It’s about regular people who happen to cross paths, one on the way to recovery and self fulfillment, the other on the way to dissipation and self annihilation.