'Blue Moon' Review: Ethan Hawke's Heartfelt Ode to Lorenz Hart

Exploring the Heart of 'Blue Moon'

“Blue Moon” opens not with a flourish but with a soggy spectacle—a man is literally singing in the rain, his song drowned by the thudding reality of his circumstances. This is no Gene Kelly; it's Lorenz Hart, played astutely by Ethan Hawke. The film unfolds like a wistful lament, chronicling the renowned lyricist's tragic journey through loneliness and addiction on a pivotal night in 1943.

“Some of their songs, like 'The Lady Is a Tramp' and 'My Funny Valentine,' are so famous that they're still widely hummable nearly a century later.”

Hart, who partnered with Richard Rodgers, formed one of the most iconic songwriting duos in American musical history. However, “Blue Moon,” directed by Richard Linklater, is less about their successes and more about Hart's personal unraveling. It's an intimate portrait that dives deep into the psyche of an artist on the edge.

Setting the Stage

The narrative oscillates between the grime of New York streets and the glamour of Broadway's opening night for “Oklahoma!” on March 31, 1943. This juxtaposition serves to remind us of Hart's formidable talent and tragic flaws, illustrated vividly as he watches from the sidelines while Rodgers thrives with a new partner, Oscar Hammerstein II.

A Character Study

The portrayal of Hart isn't merely about the lows of his alcoholism; it's woven with a sharp wit and a sense of self-awareness that Hawke captures beautifully. The humor lightens the film's melancholy, resulting in a balance that makes the character all the more relatable. It's in these moments of levity—like Hart nursing water while eyeing a bourbon—that his desperation feels palpable yet endearingly humorous.

Hollywood Meets History

Almost every line in “Blue Moon” is an exquisite piece of dialogue that resonates with those familiar with theater lore. Hawke embodies Hart's vulnerability, coupled with irreverent charm, making the audience root for this man who feels both magnificent and mundane in equal measure.

The Ensemble Cast

Every character is a stroke on the canvas of Hart's tumultuous life, from the barfly Eddie (Bobby Cannavale) to the bright-eyed Elizabeth (Margaret Qualley), whose youthful adoration offers a bittersweet reflection of Hart's fading glory. The chemistry between the ensemble actors adds depth, making us feel the weight of Hart's loneliness as he navigates a world that has seemingly moved on without him.

A Visual Feast

Visually, Linklater captures the ambiance of this era through a meticulous design that transports us back to the 1940s, complete with lavish set pieces and authentic period attire. The exaggerated scale of the Sardi's set reflects Hart's internal struggle—caught between the grandeur of his past and the grimy reality of his present.

Melancholy Elegance

“Blue Moon” is steeped in a bittersweet nostalgia. It's a film that invites you to leap into the theater's embrace, but as Hart's story reminds us, beauty can often emerge from despair. The closing scenes offer a poignant snapshot of companionship, ultimately weaving together artistry and human connection in just a breath, reminding us that love and creativity often thrive in the unlikeliest of places.

In a year when films about artists often skew towards youth and idealism, “Blue Moon” stands out by offering a more complex portrayal of an aging artist confronting his legacy with sharp humor and palpable heartache. In the end, whether you're a fan of Hart's work or exploring new dimensions of theater history, “Blue Moon” is an experience that resonates long after the curtain falls.

Final Thoughts

The film triumphs in making Hart's struggles relatable, blending a masterclass in performance with a rich exploration of vulnerability and creativity. As we watch Hart grapple with his identity and legacy, we are left with a lingering question: how do we embrace the beauty around us amidst the turmoil of our personal battles?