“Judy” is a 2019 biographical drama film directed by Rupert Goold, based on the life of legendary actress and singer Judy Garland, focusing on the final year of her life. The film stars Renée Zellweger in a critically acclaimed performance as Garland, for which she won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Plot Summary
The movie is set in 1968, during Judy Garland’s final tour in London, when she was struggling with financial difficulties, personal issues, and a declining career. Garland, whose earlier career was marked by fame from The Wizard of Oz (1939) and a string of hit films, had faced a tumultuous life filled with addiction, emotional distress, and complicated relationships.
In Judy, Garland is depicted as a vulnerable, yet resilient figure who is trying to revive her career while grappling with the ghosts of her past. As she prepares for her shows at the Talk of the Town nightclub in London, she is confronted by the toll her years of stardom have taken on her. The film explores her relationship with her two young children, her struggles with addiction, and her efforts to maintain control of her life while facing public scrutiny.
The narrative flashes back to moments from her earlier life, showcasing how her career was manipulated by studio executives in Hollywood and the emotional abuse she endured. Despite her challenges, the film emphasizes Garland’s remarkable talent and her deep desire to connect with her audiences, culminating in an unforgettable performance on stage.
Cast and Characters
- Renée Zellweger as Judy Garland: Zellweger delivers an Oscar-winning portrayal of the iconic star, capturing both Garland’s vulnerability and her legendary charisma.
- Jesse Buckley as Rosalyn Wilder: Garland’s devoted but weary assistant during her London tour.
- Rufus Sewell as Mickey Deans: Judy Garland’s fifth husband, who is portrayed as both a source of support and conflict in her life.
- Finn Wittrock as Sid Luft: Judy’s third husband, who is shown in flashbacks as a significant influence on her career and personal struggles.
- Michael Gambon as Bernard Delfont: The British nightclub owner who books Garland’s performances, aware of her personal troubles but also seeking to capitalize on her fame.
Themes and Tone
Judy explores themes of fame, mental health, addiction, and the cost of celebrity. The film portrays Garland as a complex figure, burdened by her past and the pressure to live up to the image created by Hollywood. It shows the deep emotional toll of being a child star and the struggles that come with trying to find normalcy after years of public scrutiny.
The tone of the film is a blend of melancholy and admiration, focusing on both Garland’s fragility and her resilience. The scenes of her on stage contrast with those of her personal struggles, underscoring the dissonance between her public persona and private turmoil.
Performance and Music
Zellweger’s performance as Judy Garland is a central aspect of the film’s success, with her transformation into the iconic star being both physical and emotional. Zellweger sings many of Garland’s famous songs, including “Over the Rainbow,” “Come Rain or Come Shine,” and “The Trolley Song,” with her vocals earning praise for their authenticity and emotional depth. The film’s music is used to reflect Garland’s inner world, with each performance acting as both a tribute to her talent and a window into her personal battles.
Reception
Judy received critical acclaim, particularly for Zellweger’s performance, which was seen as a career-defining portrayal. Her ability to capture the essence of Judy Garland, both in terms of her appearance and her emotional complexity, made her one of the most celebrated performances of 2019. Critics also praised the film for providing a nuanced and humanizing look at Garland’s later years, moving away from a simplistic view of her tragic end.
The film earned several awards and nominations, including the Academy Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA Award for Best Actress for Zellweger. The movie also received praise for its respectful treatment of Garland’s legacy and the way it handled the more painful aspects of her life with dignity.
Legacy and Impact
Judy adds to the growing body of work that examines the darker side of Hollywood fame, particularly focusing on how the industry exploited young stars like Garland. It serves as both a tribute to her immense talent and a meditation on the cost of fame, mental health struggles, and the pressures of living up to the public’s expectations.
In summary, Judy is a powerful, emotionally charged film that offers a poignant look at the life of one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons. Renée Zellweger’s standout performance brings Judy Garland’s tragic yet inspiring story to life, reminding audiences of her extraordinary talent and the human vulnerabilities behind the glittering façade of fame
