Richard Linklater’s film “Blue Moon,” which provides an intimate portrayal of Broadway lyricist Lorenz Hart, is set to arrive on Netflix for streaming on February 14. The film had its theatrical release last October and is currently available for rent or purchase across various digital platforms, as well as on Blu-ray and DVD.
Set in the renowned Sardi’s restaurant during the 1943 premiere of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Oklahoma!”—a significant milestone marking Richard Rodgers’s inaugural collaboration with Oscar Hammerstein II—the story revolves around Hart, portrayed by Ethan Hawke. It delves into Hart’s struggle with his self-confidence amid evolving dynamics in his creative partnership with Rodgers, played by Andrew Scott.
“Blue Moon” has garnered critical acclaim and is nominated for two awards at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards: Best Original Screenplay for Robert Kaplow and Best Actor for Hawke. The ceremony is scheduled for March 15, 2026.
The film features performances by notable actors such as Margaret Qualley and Bobby Cannavale, further enriching its narrative. Additionally, an insightful interview with the film’s stars reveals the deep connection between Rodgers and Hart, while theater historian Jennifer Ashley Tepper offers a glimpse into Sardi’s portraits displayed at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, adding a historical dimension to the storytelling.
Rodgers and Hart were prolific in their contributions to musical theater, creating notable works like “Babes in Arms” and “Pal Joey,” along with the timeless 1934 ballad “Blue Moon,” which inspired the film’s title. Meanwhile, Rodgers and Hammerstein achieved their own acclaim with classics such as “South Pacific,” “The King and I,” and “The Sound of Music,” solidifying their legacy in American musical history.
The film invites viewers to explore the behind-the-scenes challenges and triumphs of these legendary composers, promising to engage both theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.