Ethan Hawke shines in a bewitching 'Blue Moon'
Is there a price to partnership? If Blue Moon, the latest film by frequent collaborators Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke, suggests so, that price yields a remarkable work. The film’s simplicity is elevated by a finely crafted script and compelling performances, earning it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Story and Setting
Inspired by true events, Blue Moon unfolds almost entirely on March 31, 1943, inside Manhattan’s iconic Sardi’s restaurant. The plot centers on Lorenz Hart, portrayed by Ethan Hawke, who was the songwriting partner of Richard Rodgers (played by Andrew Scott). While Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s Oklahoma! celebrates a triumphant opening night, Hart faces deep personal struggles amid the evening’s festivities.
Creative Partnership
Director Richard Linklater, known for films like Boyhood and the Before trilogy, moves away from his typical sprawling narratives in this work. Instead, he delivers a more intimate experience that suits the film’s confined setting. Linklater and Hawke’s intellectually rich styles harmonize perfectly, enhancing the storytelling’s subtlety and depth.
Visual and Theatrical Qualities
The film is visually stunning, featuring stylish period costumes and sophisticated lighting. Its mostly single-location setup gives it a theatrical feel, amplified by Linklater’s signature intimate direction.
“The film is visually dazzling, full of snazzy lighting and fashionable period outfits. 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.”
Summary: Blue Moon showcases the powerful synergy between Linklater and Hawke, combining intimate storytelling with striking visuals to explore the costs and triumphs of creative partnership.