Ethan Hawke Shines in a Bewitching "Blue Moon"
Is there a price to partnership? If "Blue Moon," the latest film from frequent collaborators Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke, is any indication, that price results in a remarkable work. The film’s simplicity is enriched by a finely crafted script and outstanding performances.
Plot and Setting
Inspired by true events, the story unfolds almost entirely on March 31, 1943, at the iconic Sardi’s restaurant in Manhattan. While Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s “Oklahoma!” celebrates a triumphant opening night, the atmosphere is somber for Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke), Rodgers’ former songwriting partner. As others revel in this milestone for American theater, Hart faces his inner struggles and personal challenges.
Creative Partnership
Linklater and Hawke, who collaborated on "Boyhood" and the "Before" trilogy," bring their distinct, intellectual styles to this film, complementing each other perfectly. While "Blue Moon" diverges from their decade-spanning projects, it remains deeply rewarding and well-suited to the film’s intimate, single-location setting.
Visual and Directional Style
The film dazzles visually with stylish lighting and authentic period costumes. Linklater’s signature intimate direction is prominent, confining the story mostly to one location, which gives it a theatrical quality.
“Blue Moon” is remarkably simple, but it is brought to life by a finely-tuned script and excellent performances.
Linklater’s trademark intimate direction is in full swing, as the film is confined to mostly one location, which grants it an almost theatrical quality.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Author’s summary: "Blue Moon" offers a captivating portrait of creative partnership and personal struggle, enhanced by superb performances and an intimate, theatrical atmosphere.
Would you like the tone to be more formal or casual?