Written by Robert Kaplow and directed by Richard Linklater, Blue Moon is a film that could be easily adapted into a great stage play. The movie mostly takes place in one location and is heavily driven by dialogue. This style is an absolute dream for actors wanting to display their range and talents, particularly that of the starring actor. Ethan Hawke stars as the story’s protagonist, and he does just that.
The writing and direction allow Hawke to shine, perhaps brighter than ever before, and if he doesn’t get any acting nominations for his performance here, it would be an absolute sin. Hawke stars as Lorenz Hart, a real-life lyricist who made a name for himself penning the lyrics to some all-time classic songs such as the titular “Blue Moon”, “The Lady is a Tramp”, and “My Funny Valentine”. Hart is also better known for his collaborations with musical composer Richard Rodgers (of Rodgers and Hammerstein fame).
The movie follows the events during the evening of the stage premiere of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, Oklahoma! Considering that Hart is still a friend of Richard Rodgers, he feels obligated to attend the premiere and the after-party at one of Hart’s favorite bars. After leaving the play early, Hart arrives early at the party’s location to prepare himself mentally for the party. As the night progresses, Hart drunkenly reflects on his work and talks the ears off of the bartender (Bobby Cannavale), the other employees, and other patrons there.
Linklater’s film gives his audience a glimpse into the frailties and insecurities of Hart and paints a rather tragic and sad portrait, despite Hart’s gift of gab and charm. Hart would eventually die due to his hard-drinking lifestyle fueled by his personal problems and psych issues. The movie is a fascinating and captivating portrait of a tortured artist seeking love, admiration, and respect, if he could just get his life in order and prioritize his career and talents.
The writing and solid direction, along with the outstanding acting, make Blue Moon an absolutely engrossing experience with an incredible performance by Ethan Hawke leading the way. I have always been a fan of Hawke, particularly in his other collaborations with Linklater, but this is genuinely the first time I have ever seen him truly disappear into a character that is so unlike his usual cinematic personality. The movie also features a lovely performance by actor Margaret Qualley, who portrays Elizabeth Weiland, an aspiring artist with whom Hart is enamored. Both Hawke and Weiland share a beautiful chemistry that is haunting and sad. Hart is not meant to get the girl, nor is he destined to become the biggest star in entertainment, because some of his life choices totally derail the life he could have had.
Blue Moon is definitely not for everyone, but I do highly recommend it for people who have enjoyed Linklater’s other dialog-heavy movies. The filmmaker has an excellent feel for recreating genuine, organic life experiences and the ways that people can connect deeply. And Hawke is definitely one to watch when it comes time for acting awards nominations.