Judy (2019)

Director: Rupert Goold

Starring: Renee Zellweger, Jessie Buckley, Finn Wittrock

Legendary performer Judy Garland arrives in London in the winter of 1968 to perform a series of sold-out concerts.

The Judy in question is Judy Garland, who rose to International fame after starring as Dorothy in ‘The Wizard of Oz’, at the tender age of 16. She would go on to star in several movies, record 8 albums, and perform on stage – until her untimely death at the age of just 47.

‘Judy’ depicts Judy Garland’s final year. By that time she was divorced, having financial difficulty and found herself destitute. Thankfully that final year saw her sign a deal to do a series of concerts, all of which were sold out. However, she was on a road to self-destruct…

Through back flashes, we learn of her life as a teen actress, and her strict upbringing. The film also effectively shows us celebrities are ordinary people, too, longing for the simple things in life. The movie somehow managed to ruin the image of an icon, but I enjoyed the movie and always enjoy watching biographies to see what happens when the lights dim and the curtains fall.

The film boasts amazing costumes and make-up, and Renee Zellweger is fantastic as Judy Garland. She delivers an incredible performance. ‘Judy’ is a good movie, and I really enjoyed it.

‘Judy’ earned 88 award nominations, winning 23 including the Oscar for Best Actress for Renee Zellweger. At the box office the film earned nearly $46 million on a $10 million budget.

Would I watch it again? Maybe.