Wed Oct 22 15:20:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Ethan Hawke Shines as Lorenz Hart in “Blue Moon,” a Wistful Look at a Lyricist’s Last Stand
NEW YORK – Ethan Hawke delivers a compelling performance as legendary lyricist Lorenz Hart in Richard Linklater’s “Blue Moon,” a poignant and often humorous film that captures a single night in the life of the troubled artist. Set on the opening night of “Oklahoma!” in 1943, the film follows Hart as he navigates the betrayal of his former partner, Richard Rodgers (Andrew Scott), and confronts his own demons at Sardi’s, a famed Broadway haunt.
Haunted by his past and desperate to revive his career after Rodgers teamed up with Oscar Hammerstein II, Hart attempts sobriety while grappling with his fading relevance. Hawke embodies Hart’s wit, vulnerability, and self-destructive tendencies, creating a portrait of a genius teetering on the edge.
“Blue Moon” is filled with witty dialogue and insider references that will appeal to theater enthusiasts, showcasing Hart’s relationships with figures like E.B. White and his complicated dynamic with Rodgers. The film delicately explores themes of artistic collaboration, regret, and the search for love and acceptance. While the ending is known, as Hart’s tragic fate approaches, “Blue Moon” ultimately offers a moving glimpse of a man finding fleeting moments of connection and beauty in his art and life. Rated R, “Blue Moon” is in theaters now.
First Piper 