What’s new:
The much-anticipated biopic of Leonard Bernstein, ‘Maestro,’ directed by and starring Bradley Cooper, has just debuted in Israeli cinemas and is set to premiere on Netflix on December 20.
Why it matters:
As a portrayal of an iconic figure in American music and culture, ‘Maestro’ carries the weight of legacy, artistic interpretation, and community representation. Bernstein’s life was emblematic of talent, success, and the complexities of a public figure grappling with personal identity issues in a less accepting era. The Jewish community, in particular, holds Bernstein’s story with a sense of pride due to his embrace of his heritage.
The details:
Despite Bradley Cooper’s transformative performance, complete with a convincing prosthetic nose, the film has been criticized for a lack of vibrancy and depth in its portrayal of Bernstein’s life. The script, co-written by Cooper, is said to miss the mark on capturing why Bernstein was such an influential figure, instead offering a surface-level glimpse into his marriage and personal life.
On screen:
The narrative primarily revolves around Bernstein’s relationship with his wife, Felicia Montealegre, portrayed by Carey Mulligan. While Mulligan’s performance is expected to garner critical acclaim, the film’s focus has been criticized for not delving deeper into Bernstein’s musical genius, his contributions to Broadway, or the controversies he faced, like the Black Panthers fundraiser backlash.
Between the lines:
‘Maestro’ seems to take a more conservative approach to storytelling, downplaying the excitement and cultural impact Bernstein had, especially in works like ‘West Side Story.’ The film also appears to sidestep more contentious aspects of his life, including his sexuality and his political activism.
The bottom line:
While technically polished and featuring strong lead performances, ‘Maestro’ may not resonate with audiences looking for the full breadth of Leonard Bernstein’s dynamic life and career. The film is a reminder that capturing the essence of a cultural giant is no easy feat, particularly when the portrayal leans towards the cautious.
This story was first published on jpost.com.