Review of La La Land (2016) by Ally C — 23 Feb 2017

Was "La La Land" really worth all of the hype? With performances from familiar hollywood stars Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, Damien Chazelle's film was inviting to all audiences, whether they be seasoned musical and cinema followers, or everyday movie go-ers. Overall, the acting, plot line, and stylistic choices are what made the film live up to its Oscar nominated potential. And here's why.

Without question, the actors in "La La Land" are talented, from the opening scene where hundreds of singers and dancers take over an LA freeway ramp, to the final audition scene that's part spoken, part sung monologue. Even if you didn't know that Ryan Gosling learned how to play piano from scratch for the film, his performance would still be just as impressive. Moreover, the chemistry he has with co star and love interest Emma Stone can be felt from the moment she first hears him perform. Their playful banter and constant sparring with one another create a fast paced and humorous love story that is impossible not to enjoy watching transpire.

In fact, the relationship between the two are what made the plot so successful. It didn't have your typical "love at first sight" or "happily ever after" moment, which you would assume from a film titled "La La Land". There was a constant contrast between romantic dreams like floating in space at the planetarium, and realistic hardships like long distance relationships or repeatedly getting rejected at auditions. It was refreshing to have realistic elements to the plot in an otherwise idealistic film.

Arguably the best element of "La La Land" was the director's stylistic approach to the film. Chazelle combined color and sound throughout the entire piece to mimic the style of musicals from earlier eras, all with a modern twist. For instance, there was a combination of still wide shots, and interesting points of view while synchronizing to the movements of the dancers. There was little editing done to each scene as well, making an even more seamlessly choreographed production. The deliberate use of color throughout the film was also apparent, and resembled the emotions of the characters. For instance, Emma's bold wardrobe fades to a more neutral palette as her character becomes more mature. It's little details like this that demonstrate Chazelle's craft.

Whether it wins the Oscar or not, "La La Land" is deserving of all praise due to the impressive acting performances, unexpected plot line, and intentional stylistic choices. Overall, Damien Chazelle has introduced a new form of cinema that will undoubtedly inspire the film industry in the future.