The movie Blue Moon is a fascinating insight into highly acclaimed lyricist Lorenz Hart, the man behind the famous song and many more.
In early 1943 Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II showcased their first musical Oklahoma! What would people think? Will it be a hit or a flop? The movie opens on the premiere night of the musical.
At the afterparty we find Lorenz Hart (Ethan Hawke) who used to work with Richard Rodgers (Andrew Scott), propping up the bar. Once lorded for his lyrics he’s now equally known for his sharp, well-lubricated tongue.
The embittered lyricist Hart has a lot to ponder, how much musical theatre has changed, the growing focus on commerce, but mostly the object of his affection, Elizabeth Weiland (Margaret Qualley).
Elizabeth is a beautiful young poet who sometimes keeps company with Hart. While Hart pines for her presence it’s unclear whether she truly values his companionship or is using him to progress her own social standing.
As the audience left I pondered:
- The action unfolded like a play;
- Hawke did a brilliant job with an incredibly wordy script. He managed to inject heart into a hard to a largely unlikeable character;
- You’d expect a movie about a lyricist to be heavy on words, but at times it was too much. I just wanted him to take a breath.
For more information go to Luna Cinema.
-
overall
