Ethan Hawke shines in a bewitching 'Blue Moon’

Ethan Hawke Shines in a Bewitching "Blue Moon"

Is there a price to partnership? If “Blue Moon,” the latest film from longtime collaborators Richard Linklater and Ethan Hawke, is any indication, the price results in a remarkable work. The film’s simplicity is elevated by a sharp script and outstanding performances.

Setting and Story

Inspired by true events, the story unfolds almost entirely on March 31, 1943, at the renowned Sardi’s restaurant in Manhattan. The curtain has just fallen on the triumphant opening night of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s Oklahoma! However, the mood is somber for Lorenz Hart (played by Hawke), the former songwriting partner of Rodgers (Andrew Scott). While others celebrate a landmark moment in American theater, Hart faces personal struggles and inner turmoil.

Direction and Style

Linklater, known for directing Hawke in Boyhood and the Before trilogy, delivers a more contained film here, moving away from sprawling narratives yet still deeply rewarding. Their collaborative styles are intellectual and complementary, perfectly fitting the film’s confined setting.

Visuals and Atmosphere

The film dazzles visually with elegant lighting and stylish period costumes. Linklater’s signature intimate direction shines through, grounding the story mostly in one location and giving it a theatrical feel.

“Is there a price to partnership?" — Reflecting on the bittersweet collaboration at the film’s core.

Author’s summary: "Blue Moon" captures the complexity of creative partnership through a visually striking, intimate drama grounded in true events and powerful performances.

The Ithacan — 2025-11-03