Review of The Great Gatsby (2013) by Daphne S — 03 Oct 2016

Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby delivers new life to the famous story, first published in 1925. The over-the-top set designs provide a glamorous, glittery back drop in almost every scene. Although they can surely appear to be overwhelming, these filming and editing techniques work perfectly considering the dazzling time period that is the jazz age. Glitzy wardrobes and modern pop music mixed with jazz, accompanied by a top-notch cast, allow for the audience to experience the real craze of the 1920's.

The movie begins with a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of wealthy New Yorkers during the roaring twenties. With the stock market booming and morals loosening, liquor was cheap, and partying was prioritized over all. Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire), the observant and emotionally troubled narrator, has just moved to West Egg to chase the America dream on Wall Street. His cousin, Daisy Buchanan (Carey Mulligan) lives across the bay with her husband, Tom (Joel Edgerton). Not soon after Nick moves in, his mysterious neighbor, Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio), takes an interest in him. Gatsby informs Nick that he has been in love with Daisy ever since he left for the war five years ago and hopes to win her back now that he is no longer penniless. Gatsby has returned to West Egg as a mysterious bootlegger whom no one knows personally. The film follows Daisy and Gatsby while they reunite and attempt to rekindle their love amidst a world filled with shallow socialites, secret affairs, and of course, money.

Originality is undoubtedly present in the film, but the director also succeeds in staying true to the story's authentic plot and famous symbolism. Like many other stories, not every aspect of the book makes its way into the movie rendition, but Luhrmann and screenplay director Craig Pearce pay attention to detail and character interaction. The original, surprising plot of the book is hidden amongst the flash and flare of the 2013 version, but it is in fact there. The green light shining across the bay from Daisy's house symbolizes what Gatsby is most known for, everlasting hope that the past will repeat itself. The on-screen relationships between each character provides a realistic look into the exclusive lives they live in New York's upper class. Gatsby is genuinely interested in becoming friends with Nick, instead of just using him to gain access to Daisy. Gatsby's compassion makes him stand out within the superficial society he has planted himself in. Effective portrayal of the protagonist and antagonist in this film allows for the audience to truly root for Gatsby while he attempts to win Daisy back.

DiCaprio plays Gatsby perfectly in a sense that he is alluring and captivating. When Gatsby is feeling confident, DiCaprio's faint smiles and smirks make his performance exciting to watch. His famous blonde hair and blue eyes make him appear much more full of life and love compared to his character's "opponent," Tom Buchanan. DiCaprio delivers his lines, including his favorite phrase "Old Sport," with a small hint of an English accent. Carey Mulligan's performance as Daisy is also quite impressive. Her charming tone of voice while she excitedly speaks reveals just how flattering and flirty her character truly is. Mulligan's petite size and innocent expressions allow for her to be easily objectified and controllable to both her character's love interests.

This terrific piece of cinematic artwork promotes the overall greatness of the novel and does not for a second allow the audience to take their eyes off the ever changing, fascinating screen. The lavish use of movie magic compliments the lifestyle of these intriguing characters and does not over shadow the famous, classic plot of The Great Gatsby.