The Rose (1979) Review in 2025
A semi-autobiographical drama film about a self-destructive rock star, exploring themes of fame, addiction, and mortality.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for family viewing due to mature themes, strong language, and explicit content.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of music, drama, and strong performances. It's a powerful, emotional, and thought-provoking film that will leave you moved and inspired.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film follows the life of Jesse Lujack, a fictional rock star loosely based on Bette Midler's own experiences, as he struggles with addiction, fame, and personal relationships, ultimately leading to a tragic downfall.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging, well-written, and explores complex themes with depth and nuance. The semi-autobiographical nature of the film adds to its authenticity and emotional resonance.
acting9.50/10
Bette Midler gives a tour-de-force performance as Jesse Lujack, bringing depth, nuance, and vulnerability to the role. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Alan Bates and Barbara Hershey.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Jesse Lujack being a particularly compelling and relatable protagonist. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Alan Bates and Barbara Hershey.
direction9.00/10
Mark Rydell's direction is masterful, balancing tone and atmosphere with precision and sensitivity. The film's pacing is well-handled, and the cinematography is stunning.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the gritty, raw energy of the music scene and the emotional intensity of the characters' experiences. The use of lighting and color is particularly noteworthy.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's themes of fame, addiction, and mortality are timely and thought-provoking. The performances are excellent, particularly Bette Midler's tour-de-force turn as Jesse Lujack. The cinematography is stunning, and the direction is masterful.
Cons
The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes and content too intense or disturbing.
Notable Quotes
"I'm a star, and stars don't get old."
"I'm not a junkie, I'm a musician."
"You can't buy class, but you can rent it."
