'La La Land' - Film Review

Released: 13th January 2017.
Directed By: Damien Chazelle.

'La La Land' is simply dazzling. This film is by far one of my most favourite releases of the last few years, and I must say that there hasn't been anything like it in a long time. It's the perfect homage to old hollywood classics, whilst maintaining originality and modern grace. 

The narrative follows Mia (played by Emma Stone) a wannabe actress who gets caught in a traffic jam on her way to work, and inevitably has her 'meet cute' with jazz pianist Seb (played by Ryan Gosling). Although the relationship doesn't start off well, they soon find common ground and we are catapulted into this amazing romance that is the perfect representation of first loves. As both of their careers begin to take off, difficulties and hardships arise, creating this tumult and a barrier between wanting to be together and wanting to be successful. 

Both Stone and Gosling give phenomenal performances, portraying emotion and fragility at every new scenario. Stone and Gosling are very accomplished dancers, each displaying a variety of skills which we haven't seen in their films before. They each handle their singing solos with delicacy and strength, and considering that neither of them are known singers, they both truly dedicate themselves to doing the music justice. The musical elements of the film take time to adjust to at first, as the films opening sequence is a large cheesy musical number, but as the film progresses so does the overall maturity and calibre of the musical soundtrack, fully immersing you in this world that has been created. I am now very much a jazz fan!

The director has fully committed to adding a sense of 'old hollywood' to the film. Adjusting the aspect ratio to 'cinemascope' right at the start of the film reminds you just how much cinema has changed over the past century. The film is so clever in the way that its shot and transitions between scenes. I particularly enjoyed montage at the end of the film showing how the relationship could have been different, as it showcased a range of cinematic styles from the 'old hollywood' era. 

Shooting mostly on location, I found that those sets made inside a studio really stood out. As it reminded me of dance scenes from old movies such as 'Singing in the Rain'. By making some of the sets from scratch too, the director could perfectly balance the mix of retro hollywood, and modern day living. 

This colourful and vibrant film has the cinematography perfectly planned in order to emphasise the cinematic style, but not to overshadow the actors performances. The entire crew and cast of this film, are so well put together that the film is seamless, and flows so perfectly with pace and excitement throughout. 

'La La Land' excels at being a masterpiece. Heartfelt and emotional, this film leaves you feeling as though you've been on a journey through time, as well as on a journey of discovery and love. The film hits every note just right, not overdoing it but still leaving a lasting impression. I highly recommend this film to anyone wishing to see it, it's an experience that will stay with you. Deserving of every good review and award, 'La La Land' sets the bar high for the filmmakers of 2017. What a start to the new year!

Until next time,

Charlotte.