Mindfull

A Star is Born has garnered widespread acclaim, a Grammy, and an Academy Award for best original song “Shallow". However, something about the hit film feels off. Granted, the film touches upon alcoholism and substance abuse and even portrays the archetype of a masculine male seeking help - something we don’t necessarily see in mainstream media., It fails to admit that its main selling point romanticizes a toxic relationship.

Jackson and Ally’s story is veiled as a love at first sight narrative. But as Ally’s star begins to rise, Jackson’s life begins to dwindle - the dynamic of their relationship then becomes rocky. When Ally is given the opportunity to be signed to a record label, Jackson begins to heavily drink and collapses on the floor in a drunken state. After a collective gasp from his entourage, Ally justifies his behavior by saying, “He does this all the time, it’s okay.”

The tension in this scene is broken by Jackson playfully flirting with Ally. This was the first indication that they were in a bad relationship. The second is when  Ally takes a bath post the SNL performance. While Ally bathes, Jackson demeans the lyrical content of the song performed and insinuates Ally is cheating. An argument ensues and ends with Jackson saying Ally Maine is, “f*cking ugly” -an insecurity Ally admits during the first act.

This is common in unhealthy relationships. One party is hurt while the other’s behavior is forgiven.. In the film’s situation, it seems Ally is compelled to stay  with Jackson and cancels a European leg of her tour just to care for him.

The relationship enables Jackson to relapse, which further contributes to his mental decline. Ally’s coddling doesn’t allow Jackson to better his mental state just as Jackson’s self-deprecation as a result of the relationship keeps Ally from focusing on her own mental health and career. . Jackson’s self-awareness of this leads to his eventual suicide.

The audience needs to know that love does not have to hurt for it to be worth fighting for. Despite these criticisms, A Star is Born is a wellcrafted film and has  opened the discussion for mental health and its effects on relationships. It is a decent stepping stone for film writers to better portray emotional support in relationships on the big screen.