FILMS X JENI’S: MAESTRO
A movie that makes you turn out the lights and get lost in it.
What a beautiful love letter to music and the passion behind the life of Leonard Bernstein.
As expected, the film follows the rise of Bernstein as an influential conductor and composer - but that’s where expectations end. It goes on to become this wonderfully honest and unique piece of cinema that tells the story of Bernstein’s wife, Felicia Montealegre Bernstein, almost just as much as the composer himself (Mulligan’s name is actually listed first in the credits). While it boldly displays both the flaws and greatness of Mr. Bernstein, it simultaneously weaves in meditations on love, sexuality and the minds of artists.
The whole film is a captivating dance between the performances of Mulligan and Cooper. Every moment of their acting is honest and raw, drawing you in to feel unavoidably connected to these real-life characters. While the writing and story of this movie are top-tier, its impact is owed in large part to the brilliance of these two actors and the way they work together.
Overall, it’s a wonderfully intentional movie from the script down to the film colorization (it’s not all in black and white, by the way); even the way the entire score is made up of the works of Leonard Bernstein is moving. It may not be the one to pick if you’re looking for something enthralling or action packed, but it is so much more than that: it gets into your soul and sits with your heart. Another masterpiece by triple-threat Bradley Cooper, this is one for any person with a deep appreciation for music and the people who make it happen.
Would I watch it again? Absolutely - the first half of this movie alone might become a comfort watch.
Tear level: noticeable amount of tears shed at the end, but perhaps not for less emotional viewers.
Watch when: you want to sit with good music, see incredible acting or need a stylized, period piece.
Soundtrack/score: a true ode to Leonard Bernstein by showcasing all of his compositions - 10/10
If this movie were emojis: 🎼👞🚬🥂🎟️🎻
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The Jeni’s Pairing
This is a single scoop in a bowl with a waffle cone: Goat Cheese with Red Cherries. Practical. Distinctive. Timeless. (Also kind of for old people - both in age and soul alike.)
Mouthwatering and ethereally light like the world’s best cheesecake topped with deep-red, sweet-tart cherries.
