Damien Chazelle’s Oscar-winning musical “La La Land” is a colourful story that follows aspiring performers as they embark on a whirlwind journey navigating their careers in bustling Los Angeles. The film brings together both Classic Hollywood and modern surroundings in an appealing blend of visual styles.
Emma Stone stars as Mia Dolan, a struggling actress who works in a coffee shop and and books unsuccessful auditions. When Mia meets jazz enthusiast and aspiring club owner Sebastian Wilder (Ryan Gosling), the two quickly begin a passionate romance. But when the pursuit of their dreams begins to tug at their relationship, they must choose between their once-in-a-lifetime romance or their dream careers.
Old is new again
Coming off the success of 2014’s “Whiplash,” Damien Chazelle takes a more colourful spin in the director’s chair here; he gives viewers a magical story fueled by aspiration and sacrifice. Set against a modern-day Los Angeles backdrop, Chazelle brings these two characters to life in a bold, passionate experience that is a visual feast. The 128-minute runtime allows Stone and Gosling to take viewers on a touching journey that features vivid cinematography and extravagant musical numbers. Chazelle’s unique directing style is evident throughout, with smooth, uninterrupted takes being scattered across the film.
At the 2017 Academy Awards, it was no surprise that “La La Land” was the most colourful nomination. The lighting and costume design give the film a polychromatic look that appeals to viewers of all ages. As well as incorporating older filmmaking techniques, Chazelle draws inspiration from classic films like “The Young Girls of Rochefort” and “Singin’ in the Rain”—all of which feature outdoor dances.
“La La Land” is not without issues, however. Despite being taken along the loved-up journey between Sebastian and Mia, viewers can’t help but feel distanced from the characters. The lack of backstory prevents viewers from being able to form a close attachment to these characters. Themes like following your dreams and dreams vs. reality seem to be at the forefront of the film. Repetitive shots and circular narratives show the duo’s journey across the film; and even the “La La Land” locations play into the the film’s morals. Although Los Angeles may be the ‘City of Dreams,’ to achieve your aspirations you may still have to make sacrifices.
The film leaves its ending up to interpretation. Whilst on one hand, you can see the true ending, a homage to the perfect Hollywood ending, or you can see it as a look into what could’ve been in store for Sebastian and Mia.
Extravagant performances
Despite Gosling and Stone giving sensational performances, believe it or not, neither were the original choices for their respective roles. Gosling’s role was supposed to be played by Miles Teller, who previously worked on “Whiplash” with Chazelle. Stone’s role was originally filled by Emma Watson, who, due to scheduling conflicts, had to drop out. Fans of both Gosling and Stone can also watch the pair in the 2011 rom-com “Crazy, Stupid, Love” and the 2013 thriller “Gangster Squad.”
In conclusion, “La La Land” is an extravagant, bittersweet combination of classic cinema and modern filmmaking. The film makes use of its talented cast in more ways than one. It’s leads take on musical roles alongside performative ones and manage to provide a pleasant viewing experience.
