Bradley Cooper as ‘Maestro’ from The New Yorker Radio Hour
Dec 24, 2023
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Bradley Cooper and David Remnick discuss Cooper's new film Maestro, his fascination with music, and his portrayal of Leonard Bernstein. They also talk about conducting, preparing for scenes, and Cooper's transition from actor to director.
Bradley Cooper's film 'Maestro' explores the intricate relationship between Leonard Bernstein and his wife Felicia Montalegra, highlighting the unorthodox nature of their marriage.
Through his passion for detail and extensive research, Bradley Cooper successfully directs a scene where he conducts the London Symphony Orchestra with perfection in 'Maestro'.
Deep dives
Bradley Cooper's journey to becoming a filmmaker
Bradley Cooper, known primarily as an actor, reveals his long-time aspiration to become a director. Having worked with renowned filmmakers, Cooper decided to take matters into his own hands and make a film he truly believed in. His directorial debut on 'A Star Is Born' was a success, and he now views filmmaking as the ultimate form of fun and artistic expression.
The creative process behind 'Maestro'
Cooper discusses the origin story of his film 'Maestro' and his fascination with conducting and music from a young age. He dives into the extensive research and preparation involved in portraying Leonard Bernstein, from studying conductors to soaking up the world of classical music. Cooper's passion for detail pushed him to direct a scene where he conducted the London Symphony Orchestra with perfection, after initial setbacks and arduous rehearsal.
Exploring the complex relationship of Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montalegra
Cooper emphasizes that the heart of 'Maestro' lies in the intricate relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montalegra, his wife. He delves into the unorthodox nature of their marriage, with Felicia fully aware of Bernstein's bisexuality and non-monogamous tendencies. The film portrays the evolving dynamics, the depth of their connection, and explores Felicia's growth and realization of her own needs and desires throughout their journey together.
The lasting impact of portraying Leonard Bernstein
Cooper touches on how inhabiting the role of Leonard Bernstein has left a lasting impact on him. He compares the experience to having characters like Chris Kyle and Joseph Merrick living within him. Cooper acknowledges that these experiences shape him as a filmmaker and person, and he feels fortunate to have had the opportunity to bring such iconic figures to life on screen.
This holiday weekend, we're presenting a special conversation between actor and director Bradley Cooper and David Remnick of The New Yorker Radio Hour.
In this episode, they discuss Cooper's ‘fearless’ new film Maestro, his lifelong fascination with music, and how he constructed his intimate portrayal of legendary conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein.