Is there a price to partnership? If "Blue Moon," the latest film by longtime collaborators Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke, is any indication, that price results in a remarkable work. The film is straightforward but comes alive through a finely crafted script and outstanding performances.
Inspired by true events, "Blue Moon" takes place almost entirely on March 31, 1943, inside the famous Sardi’s restaurant in Manhattan. The story unfolds after the victorious opening night of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s musical Oklahoma! However, the mood is somber for Lorenz Hart (played by Hawke), Rodgers' former songwriting partner. While others celebrate a defining moment for American theater, Hart faces personal struggles and inner turmoil.
Director Richard Linklater, who worked with Hawke on Boyhood and the Before trilogy, presents a departure from those expansive narratives, opting for a more contained but equally rewarding film. Their intellectual and distinct creative styles blend perfectly, matching the intimate and period-specific setting.
“Is there a price to partnership? Inspired by true events, the film is set almost exclusively on March 31, 1943, in the iconic Sardi’s restaurant in Manhattan.”
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars, Blue Moon offers a compelling exploration of artistic collaboration and personal struggle, brought to life by strong performances and a focused narrative.
Author's summary: "Blue Moon" delivers a visually rich and emotionally nuanced story about artistic partnership and personal challenges, highlighted by Ethan Hawke's exceptional performance and Linklater's intimate direction.