Quick Summary: I expect films from the 1930s to be light, frothy, and fun. A Star is Born is none of these things. It is instead a tender, surprisingly sad drama with high production values, excellent acting, and beautiful writing.

Title: A Star is Born

Release: 1937

Director: William A. Wellman

Starring:

Janet Gaynor (Esther/Vicki)

Frederick March (Norman)

I expect films from the 1930s to be light, frothy, and fun. A Star is Born is none of these things. It is instead a tender, surprisingly sad drama with high production values, excellent acting, and beautiful writing.

A Star is Born tells the story of Esther Blodgett, a country girl who dreams of making it big in Hollywood. Norman Maine, a famous actor, takes her under his wing. With Norman's help and the stage name of "Vicki Lester", Esther eventually finds parts, fame, and a husband - Norman. Unfortunately, things are not as blissful as they seem; Norman's own career is on the rocks thanks to his steadily worsening alcoholism.

There are many finely crafted scenes in this film, but one stands out particularly. Norman and another man engage in a fist fight, which draws a crowd. The people in the crowd comment on how awful it is that the famous Norman Maine would be in this disgraceful fight. But, when the fight ends, not one person in the milling crowd talks to Norman, and he is left, in the midst of dozens of people, entirely alone.

A sad movie, but one which is definitely worth seeing.

Originally Written: October 6, 2010