Blue Moon - Movie Review 

★★★1/2☆☆

By Ray Manukay

BLUE MOON (2025)

★★★½☆

"A Bittersweet Farewell to a Broadway Legend"

By Ray Manukay

📝 Official Synopsis

On March 31, 1943, famed lyricist Lorenz Hart spends the opening night of his former partner’s new hit, Oklahoma!, at Sardi's bar. Haunted by his own fading genius and the rise of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Hart navigates a night of whiskey, wit, and crushing reality.

🎬 Cast & Crew Production

Director: Richard Linklater

Writer: Robert Kaplow

Format: 100 Minutes

Studio: Sony Pictures Classics

🎭 Where You've Seen Them Before

Ethan Hawke (Lorenz Hart)

• Before Trilogy
• First Reformed

Andrew Scott (Richard Rodgers)

• Ripley
• Sherlock

Bobby Cannavale (Eddie)

• Ezra
• The Irishman

Margaret Qualley (Elizabeth)

• The Substance
• Poor Things

Ray's Review

"Blue Moon is a real-time drama that with its dialogue heavy script and single location setting resembles a filmed stage play more than a traditional cinematic film. This is not a criticism of Richard Linklater, who does a strong job of keeping the action flowing even among lengthy speeches but rather, it is simply the nature of a story that demands a static presentation.

The film is anchored by a powerhouse performance from Ethan Hawke as Lorenz Hart. It is a showcase that captures the tragic self-destruction of a man unable to overcome his demons in a world eager to pass him by. Andrew Scott also stands out as his longtime writing partner, Richard Rodgers. Rodgers feels a deep responsibility and loyalty toward his colleague but has grown weary of enabling Hart’s self-destructive behavior. Throughout the film, he slowly confirms to himself that the only choice is to walk away before he, too, is dragged down into the darkness.

Hawke dominates the film with long monologues that may initially come off as blustering. However, between these insecurity-tinged speeches, we feel the pain of a man who must keep talking to avoid the crushing reality of silence. It is a desperation that feels grating at first, until the inherent sadness underneath his shame and lack of self-esteem is revealed.

Bobby Cannavale is also a standout as a charming bartender who mercifully lends Hart an ear without judgment, while Margaret Qualley plays an ingenue whose stunning, innocent beauty represents a romantic ideal that remains hopelessly unattainable for Hart.

Ultimately, while Blue Moon is an entertaining film, it lacks the driving force necessary to make the plot truly memorable, despite the stellar work by Hawke. Watch the film to appreciate the acting prowess on display. Skip if looking for a film with strong, gripping action or a propulsive plot with dynamic locations."

⚖️ Pros & Cons

PROS:

• Award-worthy turns by Hawke and Scott.
• Brilliant, witty script by Robert Kaplow.

CONS:

• Single-room setting may feel like 'filmed theater'.
• Pacing is deliberate and dialogue-heavy.

FINAL VERDICT: ★★★☆☆

A beautifully acted character study that Broadway buffs will adore, even if it feels a bit boxed-in.

Read review ON LETTERBOXD