Bradley Cooper’s Film ‘Maestro’: Bernstein Family’s Support Amidst Controversy

2023-08-17 10:21:39

The American actor, who wrote and directed ‘Maestro,’ in which he plays the role of Bernstein, has received support from the composer’s family

The family of Jewish composer Leonard Bernstein came to the defense of Bradley Cooper on Wednesday following controversy arose over his decision to wear a bulky nose prosthesis to play the famous conductor in his new film. The American actor, who wrote and directed “Maestro”, in which he also plays the role of Mr. Bernstein, has indeed been at the heart of a controversy since the publication of the film’s trailer online.

The controversy centers on the use of a consequent fake nose, seen by some as perpetuating stereotypes regarding Jews. Some critics equated this artistic choice with “Blackface”, a practice where white actors painted their faces black to play black characters. According to them, Bradley Cooper would be guilty of “Jewface”. However, the three children of the composer of “West Side Story” came to the defense of the actor on the social network X (Twitter). They say they are “completely in agreement” with his decision to “use tricks to accentuate his resemblance” with their father.

“Leonard Bernstein had a beautiful, big nose,” Jamie, Alexander and Nina Bernstein replied in their statement. “We are also confident that our father would have had no problem with this.” The Bernstein children praised Mr Cooper for “the depth of his commitment”. “It breaks our hearts to see inaccurate portrayals or misunderstandings of his efforts,” they added.

STF / AFPLéonard Bernstein in 1977

The son of Ukrainian Jewish immigrants, Mr. Bernstein, who died in 1990, remains one of the most renowned composers and conductors of all time. He notably conducted the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and is famous for his score of “West Side Story”, a hit on Broadway.

In “Maestro”, Bradley Cooper (“A Star Is Born”, “Very Bad Trip”) explores the tumultuous relationship of Leonard Bernstein and his wife, Felicia Montealegre, played by Carey Mulligan. Presented at the Venice Film Festival, the film might make him a candidate for the Oscar for best actor.

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