Judy

In The 1930’s during “The Golden Age Of Hollywood,” many movie goers struggled to earn money for a living as “The Great Depression” plunged The Economy forcing employees to get laid off, numerous businesses shutdown, citizens seeking for shelter, searching for jobs to feed their families, “The Dust Bowl” damaged many crops among many other problems occurred back then. In order to spark a glimmer of hope, movie goers went to the movies in order to temporarily look away from reality to watch their favorite stars of the era including Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, Clark Gable, Spencer Tracy, James Cagney, Errol Flynn, Mickey Rooney, The Three Stooges, Bette Davis, Joan Crawford & Shirley Temple.

One star in particular became an overnight sensation with a beautiful singing voice which led her to become a star is none other than Judy Garland. The late legend starred in notable films including her collaboration with close friend Mickey Rooney,  “Meet Me In St. Louis,” A Star Is Born,” (1954) & last but not least, “The Wizard Of Oz.” Despite her success, Judy struggled with drug addition throughout her professional and personal life affecting her daily schedule, friends and family members as they try to sober her up. Unfortunately, a culmination of financial difficulties, divorce, scheduling conflicts and drug addiction eventually led to her tragic drug overdose.

Judy’s legacy will forever live on spanning generations of actors, actress and singers who cite Judy as an influence including Anne Hathaway, Lady Gaga, Heath Ledger, Sam Smith, Brittany Murphy, Claire Danes, Ariana Grande (not kidding) & Renée Zellweger. Speaking of Renée she signed on to portray the iconic star in a biographical film titled, “Judy,” based on the musical drama, “End Of The Rainbow” about her final months struggling with drug addition, trying to support her kids, financial problems, dating and eventually married a younger man.

Before I weigh the the strengths and weaknesses of Judy, I recall watching a two-part TV movie called, “Judy Garland: Me & My Shadows” which aired on ABC starring Judy Davis & Tammy Blanchard as both older and younger versions of Judy earned them awards at The Golden Globes & Primetime Emmys. If you’re curious to know more about it, I strongly recommend it. I also wrote an article about “Life With Judy Garland: Me & My Shadows” so feel free to check it out.

Judy came out in 2019. (same year Joker came out) It received positive reviews from critics and movie goers alike. In addition to critical acclaim, the film also made enough revenue at the box office. Renée Zellweger ultimately won numerous awards such as a Golden Globe, SAG Award, BAFTA & ultimately took home an Oscar.

We all know what happened to Judy, so I’ll give everybody a chance to see it, because I don’t want discuss about crucial SPOILERS prior to her death.

Beautiful & Ugly Aspects

Beautiful: Renée Zellweger did an excellent job for her performance as Judy Garland. She deserved an Oscar.

Other Cast Members such as Finn Wittrock & Michael Gambon both did a decent job for their respective performances.

The film retells Judy’s final months of her life before her tragic drug overdose.

Renée did her own singing to replicate Judy’s signature vocal style. She deserves Bonus Points for working her butt off without pulling a Milli Vanilli. You know lip-syncing without actually using your real voice? That’s right Ashley Simpson I’m talking to you.

Cinematography never suffered from a bad case of Shaky Cam. Thank goodness the cameraman didn’t consume too much coffee. Otherwise he’ll be running around in circles like Sonic The Hedgehog on a coffee binge.

Notable songs like “Get Happy,” “The Trolly Song” and of course “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” are selected.

Some flashbacks play a crucial role leading to Judy’s tragic downfall. If you’re aware of her history, you probably know how it are started.

If you have a very sensitive side, this biographical film is gonna be one heck of a sobfest. Whatever you do, don’t bring a bowl of chopped onions.

Ugly: To be honest with ya fellas, I couldn’t spot nothing wrong with this movie. I’ll give The Cast & Crew an Extra Point for making a flawless biography as possible.

The Final Verdict: A, FOR APEX!

Judy is a surprisingly good film. Renée Zellweger did an excellent job portraying Judy Garland. She deserved an Oscar worth all that hard effort. It’s a shame I didn’t include this movie as part of my Top 12 Movies Of 2019. It deserves to be an honorable mention. If you’re fascinated with Judy Garland, I strongly recommend this movie.

R.I.P. Judy Garland you’re legacy will never be forgotten. Many future actors/actresses/singers continue to keep your iconic status alive.