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Most fiction films, and even films based on true stories, sugar coat reality either because it’s not dramatic enough, or it’s too dramatic to portray raw in a feature. A Star is Born knocks the sugar coating out of the equation and presents its characters and their struggle with all the ugliness, brokenness, and beauty, conveying a ruthlessly palpable reality.

A Star is Born is the fourth remake of the story following successful, but alcoholic, country singer, Jackson Maine (Bradley Cooper), how he discovered and fell in love with young obscure singer Ally (Lady Gaga), and how their love story spiraled against fame, failure, and unmendable demons.

The plot may not be the newest thing ever, especially since there have already been three versions of it, but the take on the plot is definitely innovative.

The film’s first act, where Jack and Ally meet, is absolutely charming and not at all cheesy. This is a major accomplishment. The third act is also very emotional, right on the money, and will stay with you long after the film ends.

The second act of the film is where things start to get messy; the struggle Jack is going through with his dying fame is not as potently conveyed as it should be to move the plot forward. Ally’s change from producing what is seen by Jack as “inauthentic” music is vaguely portrayed and it is unclear whether or not Ally actually believes in the change or is just paying the price of fame. Both these points are pivotal to the plot, and their dilution made for a weak second act.

The editing of the film was very unconventional, with a partial throw-out of continuity, and multiple uses of jump cuts. This editing style is controversial and not what most of the audience is used to; it was tolerable most of the time, but throughout a two-hour film, it got quite annoying.

As for the musical numbers, the melodies were pleasant and the lyrics were evocative. That being said, the film barely had any true standout songs.

A Star is Born is Bradley Cooper’s debut directing feature and an ultimate hats-off to him is due, as he was able to capture the entire film as a personal, human-story based feature.

Cooper’s performance as Jackson Maine was truly phenomenal as he transformed himself and had the audience forget that it is actually him under all that hair, beard, and accent. He was able to convey amicability and vulnerability, in juxtaposition with destructiveness, creating a three-dimensional and complex character. Lady Gaga surprisingly held up her own against Cooper and oozed charisma to the point where audiences couldn’t take their eyes off her. Her performance was very powerful, genuine, and not at all exaggerated.

A Star is Born is a couple steps away from magnificent but unfortunately is only almost there. However, with the performance of two amazing lead actors, a compelling story, and multiple pleasant tunes, this heartfelt drama is probably still worth your time.