La La Land : An Ode to Love and Art

A Lovely Night - La La Land

Release Date: December 9th, 2016

Director: Damien Chazelle

Box Office: $472 million

Cast: Emma Stone, Ryan Gosling, John Legend, J.K Simmons

La La Land, directed by Damien Chazelle, is a cinematic masterpiece that has captivated audiences worldwide. It will remain a mystery to me how some don't enjoy the movie, I often hypothesize it is because they miss the whole point of the movie. It is easy to get caught up in the incredibly talented cast with Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, whose chemistry on screen is nothing short of magical. Their performances bring to life the story of Sebastian and Mia, two dreamers in Los Angeles who fall in love while pursuing their passions.

One of the standout features of La La Land is its legendary music. Composed by Justin Hurwitz, the soundtrack is a blend of jazz and contemporary melodies that perfectly complement the film’s narrative. From the upbeat “Start a Fire” to the hauntingly beautiful “City of Stars” and the recurring theme songs, Hurwitz’s compositions are integral to the film’s emotional depth and storytelling.

What truly sets La La Land apart as a masterpiece is its cinematic brilliance. Damien Chazelle’s direction is marked by his signature transitions and stunning visual storytelling. The film employs a variety of technical shots, such as the long take in the opening number “Another Day of Sun,” which required the casting team to shut down the LA highway for the day to shoot the scene, it immerses the audience in the vibrant world of Los Angeles. The use of whip pans and match cuts further enhances the dynamic and fluid nature of the film, creating a seamless viewing experience.

The backstory and lore of La La Land add another layer of fascination to the film. Originally, the role of Sebastian was supposed to be played by Miles Teller, but due to outlandish salary requests, Ryan Gosling ultimately took on the role and delivered a performance that is both heartfelt and authentic. Some scenes, like the one with John Legend convincing Seb to continue with the band, were improvised, adding a raw and spontaneous feel to the film. Additionally, Ryan Gosling learned to play the piano in just six months for his role, showcasing his dedication and talent. The cast also performed their own singing, adding to the film’s authenticity and charm.

One of the most poignant moments in La La Land is the final scene. As described in the script by Damien Chazelle:

“A hint of a tear in both… And, ever so subtly, for just a fleeting second, Mia smiles. It’s the kind of smile you could miss if you blinked – but it’s enough to signal to Sebastian that she recognized the melody he played, and that she still remembers it, and still thinks of it to this day… Then she walks out the door. Sebastian glances at his fellow musicians. Another second passes. And then, he nods, and they launch into a new chart.” This scene is executed flawlessly by Gosling and Stone, leaving the audience with an imperfect yet profoundly moving ending. It encapsulates the bittersweet reality of love and dreams, making it a memorable and impactful conclusion.

The main reason I love La La Land is because it depicts something that many songs or movies fail to capture: the magnitude of courage it takes to initiate an ending. The film beautifully portrays the importance of never losing oneself, of truly letting go for one’s own dreams and betterment. It is a story of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams, making it a timeless piece of cinema.

La La Land is not just a film; it is an experience that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever dared to dream.