Written and Directed by Damien Chazelle, who had a surprise hit last year with Whiplash last. La La Land is a colourfully artistic musical movie about: pursuing one’s dreams, falling in love and ultimately, considering which of these has a higher value.
Emma Stone, stars as an aspiring actress Mia whose persistence (and resilience) shines through many an acting audition. She meets Sebastian, played by Ryan Gosling, a creative jazz virtuoso, whose talent as a musician and dancer are apparent throughout. They are aspiring creative talents with big dreams for their careers whilst having affections for each other.
The movie is set in modern day Los Angeles but the style and influence harps into the golden age era of the 1940s & 50s MGM musicals, played iconically by song and dance couples as Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers and Gene Kelly & Debbie Reynolds. Where the blockbuster musical genre usually had a dramatic story unfold within choreographed musical melodies; that captures the highs and lows of the movie.
The casting of Stone and Gosling was a great match. Their on film affection for each other was quite enjoyable to watch and gave impetus to the powerful ending it so deserved.
I was enthralled throughout and enjoyed the experience of Lalaland; a movie that could influence a resurgence of more Hollywood musicals. If they’re in the same class as this movie then I say: the more the better.
I enjoyed this movie: 4 Stars.
Written & Directed by: Damien Chazelle.
