Tawnya Shepherd

Maestro is a cinematically beautiful, artful, raw and revealing story about the complexity of humans’ ability to love others while simultaneously demeaning ourselves. Carey Mulligan’s performance is visceral as she traverses the familiar arc of infatuation, love, sacrifice, denial, resentment and recovery. And, Bradley Cooper’s performance is phenomenal as the brilliant composer, conductor whose allegiance lies only with himself and his passions- whether music or his current love interest. Cooper embodies the character thoroughly and masterfully and, while I don’t like the conductor, I can’t help but love him for his passion and commitment to his craft. I will not soon forget the final conducting scene. Cooper was magically magnificent.

OH. MY. GOSH. This movie is spectacular! The complexities of living a life impacted by trauma is tragically and beautifully juxtaposed against deep-seeded, yet buried, faith, unconditional love, fierce determination, redemption and, of course, soul-touchingly remarkable talent. I was completely transfixed from the beginning when 10-year old Aretha sings for a house full of who’s who’s and just a few scenes later is mute with despair. You will grieve and grimace and laugh and cheer for her throughout the movie; but, whatever you do, STAY THROUGH THE CREDITS! You will be blessed by the ending.

This movie is so real. Matt Damon is fantastic as a flawed dad trying his best to make amends for his past by doing what he believes is the next right thing. His purity of character is endearing and heartbreaking. Life is brutal- and this movie depicts that beautifully and poetically.