In hindsight, Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut “A Star is Born” served as the commercial tune-up that paved the way for “Maestro,” as both films deal with the price of art as well as loving an artist. The newer film follows the fact-based tale of conductor Leonard Bernstein, with beautiful performances by Cooper and Carey Mulligan anchoring a movie that’s not always easily accessible, but certainly far from shallow.
Before getting to the movie itself, a word about the controversy it triggered over the prosthetic nose that Cooper donned to better resemble his Jewish character. Despite the long history of actors doing that – and support from Bernstein’s family – to some, the stereotypical aspect of the image struck a nerve, though it’s a sensation that should quickly dissipate watching Cooper disappear into the role.
Ultimately, much of “Maestro’s” appeal has less to do with what’s seen by the eye than heard by the ear, using Bernstein’s music to set a mood and atmosphere while celebrating his artistry. Cooper goes the extra mile, in fact, to foster an appreciation for what a conductor does, capturing the way Bernstein threw the whole of his body and soul into the task, and the collateral damage from that creative explosion.
Source : CNN