The remake of A Star Is Born is a project that has been developing for a number of years now. Warner Bros has cycled through a number of variations of talent for both female lead and director, but last year secured Academy Award nominee Bradley Cooper for the helm. The actor has been building a notable body of work as producer since 2011, but A Star Is Born will see him make his directorial debut, as well as star, produce and co-write the script with Will Fetters.
Cooper had spent time actively seeking award-winning musician and actress Lady Gaga for the project, and it is her eventual commitment that has led to A Star Is Born earning an official green light from Warner Bros. This is a significant development because – apart from the project moving from ‘in-development’ to being in active production – it means that Lady Gaga will collaborate with Cooper in terms of composing and performing the music for the film, as well as taking the female lead role.
This will be the third remake of the 1937 William A. Wellman film, and Lady Gaga steps into a role previously performed by Janet Gaynor, Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand. It tells the story of a young unknown, Esther, who yearns for success in show business. She meets an established male star – Norman – and eventually embarks on a romance with him, despite his obvious alcoholism. As her star ascends, and he spirals into failure and oblivion, their relationship becomes more complex and tragic.
President of Creative Development and Worldwide Production for Warner Bros., Greg Silverman, announced the official production status of the project, and detailed the excitement surrounding the talent combination secured for A Star Is Born.
“For those of us lucky enough to watch him work as an actor and producer, it has been clear that Bradley would make this transition to director. We are honored that he is doing it, here, at his home—Warner Bros.—and with Lady Gaga as a collaborator and co-star. The world is in for a treat as these great artists craft an all new vision of A Star is Born.”
A Star Is Born is now scheduled to begin principal photography in early 2017.