Maestro
Overview
Maestro is a 2023 biographical romantic drama film directed by Bradley Cooper, who also stars as Leonard Bernstein, the famous composer and conductor. The film stars Carey Mulligan as Felicia Montealegre, Bernstein's wife. The film spans over 30 years, from the 1940s to the 1980s. It focuses on the relationship between Bernstein and Felicia. Bernstein is a brilliant, charismatic, and openly gay man. Felicia is a talented actress who is aware of his sexuality. They marry, and they have three children. Bernstein has affairs with men, and Felicia struggles with his infidelity. The film is a meditation on love, sacrifice, and the tension between public and private life. The film features a stunning, 6-minute, continuous-take sequence of Bernstein conducting Mahler's Symphony No. 2 at Ely Cathedral. Maestro was a critical success, earning over $30 million on a $70 million budget. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Actor for Bradley Cooper, and Best Actress for Carey Mulligan. It won the Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling.