La La Land

5

BarryRDec 31, 2016

Mediocre singing, mediocre dancing.
The opening scene was full of colour and should've zinged. But it was thin. Maybe too many dancers, each doing too little.
Contrived plot.
The only exciting bit was John Legend. He could sing!

12 of 19 users found this helpful127

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6

TheMetacritiqerDec 30, 2016

It's super overrated but a little better than average. Would have preferred if it was more of a throwback to the era of the songs at the pool party scene.

1 of 10 users found this helpful19

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5

ALisandeDec 30, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I've never walked out of a movie so unsure whether I liked it or not, and I can't explain why; the acting was decent (though the singing and dancing, not so much), and the story, while cliched, was ok. And the ending frustrated me. Maybe I'm just weird this way, but if I'd gone off to Paris to shoot a movie, I would have kept in touch with someone who had inspired me to reach my dreams, instead of haphazardly bumping into them 5 years later with no contact in the meantime.… Expand

2 of 9 users found this helpful27

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5

pdw123Dec 30, 2016

Hollywood reflexive films have been done before, and please see the master named Woody Allen, to the viewers here, if you yet haven't--he was the master who did it the best. I agree with the other reviewer here saying that these days withHollywood reflexive films have been done before, and please see the master named Woody Allen, to the viewers here, if you yet haven't--he was the master who did it the best. I agree with the other reviewer here saying that these days with Kael and Ebert gone, you now have the AA sycophant reviewers giving stuff a pass, and "the Artist" and "Birdman" are simply prime examples, couldn't have said it better.

Chazelle's second film is simply not up to par with his brilliant work that absolutely floored me, "Whiplash". That work was totally original, inspired by personal experience obviously, and held my attention like I was sitting on a pin cushion throughout, and with a dramatic climax like none seen before. It is an amazing piece of work and needs to be listed under "great" films, and there's also NO comparison whatsoever between the JK Simmons performance in it (beyond brilliant) TO this current film--a mediocre bit part.

Gosling and Stone are multi-talented, I'll give them that, but Stone is overall a better actor, and Gosling came off too plastic and contrived throughout this. While there are a couple of belly laughs maybe worth 1/3 the price of admission, the overall film had me looking at the time and just dragged on and on waiting for it to end finally.

I thought given the fact that Chazelle was a "jazzer" with Gosling trying to transcribe the car radio piece in the first scene, that I would be in for an original treat. However, the bane of Hollywood trying to market films to too many interest groups e.g. Is it a reflexive film, a musical, a jazz film?? It was just trying to be too many things at once without a coherent vision, so better luck next time Damien, and I can't recommend it overall, and the 94 rating is just way way overhyped.… Expand

3 of 11 users found this helpful38

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3

GreatMartinDec 30, 2016

I LOVE jazz, love stores and Hollywood musical movies so why is my reaction to "La La Land", which right now seems to be the one to beat for the Best Movie Oscar and Golden Globe, so blah? Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone have chemistry as theI LOVE jazz, love stores and Hollywood musical movies so why is my reaction to "La La Land", which right now seems to be the one to beat for the Best Movie Oscar and Golden Globe, so blah? Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone have chemistry as the lovers from the boy meets girl, boy loves girl, boy loses girl in the acting department but are sorely lacking in the singing and dancing department though Gosling acquits himself in piano playing.

Everything you read, including comments by the director and screenwriter Damien Chazelle, has remarks about it being a salute to old Hollywood movies and to Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Cyd Charisse, Judy Garland but,with no disrespect, unless this was a take-off of all mentioned, and even if Charisse's voice was dubbed, "La La Land" fails miserably. I have seen some talk about it saluting Jacques Demy and Michel Legrand's movies "The Umbrellas of Cherbourg" and "The young Girls of Rochefort" which it does in some departments such as the production design by David Wasco and the costume designs by Mary Zophres. Regarding the choreography by Mandy Moore the opening is really a winner but in other scenes she is let down by Stone and Gosling who just don't have it when it comes to doing the steps she has for them. There is one scene where they are dancing in the stars, at the Griffith Observatory planetarium after watching the James Dean movie "Rebel Without a Cause", that is more special effects than dancing.

The music by Justin Hurwitz with lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul sort of get lost except for the jazz music which comes across strong, melodic. The love theme lyrics are still somewhat a mystery to me though it is sung and played a few times.

The climax lasting about twenty minutes, a recap of what has taken place for the first 100 minutes, jell everything together but, for me, it was too late.I think I would have been much happier and appreciated the movie, Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone just seeing that section.

J.K. Simmons, who was in Chazells's "Whiplash" and won an Oscar for his role does a brief cameo here while John Legend does an extended one, neither adding or taking away from the movie.

The bottom line is that "La La Land", for me, was not worth the time though I am sure I am in a very small minority. It might have helped if I hadn't seen the Broadway version of "An American In Paris" in Miami this past Tuesday where the leads were amazing dancers and strong singers.

P.S. When will the fad of young actors wearing that 5 o'clock shadow stubble on their faces end? ARGH!!… Expand

11 of 29 users found this helpful1118

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10

Movie1997Dec 30, 2016

Wow oh wow! What a film! After much anticipation, I finally got to see the follow up to director Damien Chazelle's breakout hit "Whiplash". This movie blew me away. For someone who is not into musical's, this one locked me in from start toWow oh wow! What a film! After much anticipation, I finally got to see the follow up to director Damien Chazelle's breakout hit "Whiplash". This movie blew me away. For someone who is not into musical's, this one locked me in from start to finish. Every song in the movie is fantastic and the musical set pieces truly compliment the songs in such stylish fashion. This is very much in the vein of 1940s and 1950s musicals while still being its own thing. The movie is also a love story between Mia and Sebastian played by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. This is not only their third collaboration together, but easily their best. Both Stone and Gosling give the performances of their careers. They bring out a lot of great comedy and make you believe that anything is possible. I believe they both should get best acting oscar nominations. The movie showcases the struggles of following your dreams with the complications of being in a relationship. I love how the title has a double meaning. Los Angeles (where the movie takes place) is also known as La La Land. The place where dreams are made. However, the movie shows how difficult and frustrating that idea can be and how the real world is nothing like the movies tend to make it out to be. Which leads to why the movie ended in such a heartbreaking but touching way. It takes hard work to pursue your dreams, but not everything turns out the way you want it in the end. There are some sacrifices to be made in life and the ending really hit me hard with that message. This is by far the best movie of 2016! It is a beautifully directed musical that presents interesting ideas while paying homage to old classics. I give "La La Land" an A+!… Expand

4 of 10 users found this helpful46

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8

kathytreeceDec 30, 2016

How nice to see singing and dancing from our favorite young movie stars. Nice humor and romance. The story was confusing at times, but that is overshadowed by the wonderful music and dancing.

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

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10

francisrgoDec 29, 2016

Essentially the Best Film of 2016. La La Land is a masterpiece and brilliant, it is romantic and poignant. I love Musicals and this was just perfect in every way. Damien Chazelle, like Whiplash, creates a world and story that everyone canEssentially the Best Film of 2016. La La Land is a masterpiece and brilliant, it is romantic and poignant. I love Musicals and this was just perfect in every way. Damien Chazelle, like Whiplash, creates a world and story that everyone can connect to, dealing with striving for perfection or reminiscing old love. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling have perfect chemistry, add with great song, music and lyrics, the movie can't get any better.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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10

sweetdreamplaceDec 28, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Listen very carefully. I cannot imagine being the only person alive who interprets the ending to this exquisitely beautiful movie the way I do? Oh by the way the Oscar race for best picture is officially over two months ahead of time because La La Land will win in a landslide. But back to the confusing and vaguely nightmarish ending. If you insist on labelling it bittersweet then at least recognize it as five pounds of bitter and four ounces of sweet. But here is the clincher. The ending is not real. Think back to when Mia was in the restaurant with her boyfriend and another couple. Bored out of her mind and feeling out of place she is startled to hear the pretty piano motif that Sebastian was playing at the supper club she had wandered into earlier in the movie. Alas the music could not have been playing on the juke box because it was Sebastian's song and at that point he was just a nobody with no record contract. So it is our first taste in the movie that something surreal is taking place. She escapes and meets Sebastian at the movies to see "Rebel Without A Cause." As they are just about to explore their first kiss the screen dissolves. Later on in the movie as shadows start to hover while driving by the same retro movie house she notices it is shuttered up for good. Just like the real life star of the movie James Dean who died prematurely. During the latter half of the movie I was wondering and anticipating when the next song and dance number would take place since the previous four were so swoony and catchy and sweet. Soon Mia and Sebastian have their first serious fight over a surprise dinner Sebastian had made which echoes a line in a Smiths song that goes " I just liked you more when you were hopelessly poor." Sebastian reels Mia back in after her seemingly failed one woman show and after some give and take he talks her into another audition. It is at this point much like another movie set in Hollywood "Mulholland Drive" where the story turns surreal. Mia sings her heart out during the audition in a song entitled "Audition (The Fools Who Dream) with lines that include "and died with a flicker and I'll always remember the flame and I trace it all back to that".
She has one last hesitant talk with Sebastian before heading off for Paris to prep for her breakthrough role. The movie jumps five years later and we see that Mia has obtained stardom as she orders form the very same barista she used to work at and jumps into her mini cab to be shuttled back to the studios we presume. But you sense a chill in the air and a lack of intimacy we have felt throughout for Mia. We discover she has a husband and small child around the age of two or so. Everyone in the audience is asking the same question? Why isn't she with Sebastian her lover and dance partner with the stars? Mia and her husband are heading to some event or something and there is another traffic jam similar to the one that opens the movie but this one is at night. Mia suggests they veer off and they end up stopping at a jazz club. Lo and behold it is Sebastian's club ( he finally opened up his own club) and it is named after Mia's suggestion Seb's with the cute bar note replacing the apostrophe just like she suggested. After some music Sebastian, master of ceremonies appears and spots Mia in the crowd. He sits down and plays "their song" the motif she heard the first time she saw him playing. Her mind is swirling in technicolor musical magnificence as she imagines an alternative life with Sebastian and "their" child. Sebastian finishes the song and Mia decides they should leave. But before parting she glances back at Sebastian with tears in her eyes of memories and what could have been. So why the mysterious and vaguely bewildering ending to this sublime piece of movie making. Think folks. Do you really think it is plausible Mia would not know that Sebastian now owns a club in the very town she has been working in? Although it is not directly implied Sebastian in real life must have died probably while Mia was in Paris and Mia was imagining her love in an alternative setting. We first see Mia in the movie improvising in her car rehearsing. By the end of the movie she has nailed the acting part down with her heartfelt "Audition (The Fools Who dream) song but this heartbreak carries over and fuses with her own life as her true love has vanished as well.… Expand

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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9

Seymour_MoviesDec 28, 2016

Corky and endearing in the best possible way. Somehow Chazelle is able to make this tribute to old time Hollywood incredibly refreshing. While I would have been happy just watching Stone and Gosling dance and flirt for the entire 128 minutes,Corky and endearing in the best possible way. Somehow Chazelle is able to make this tribute to old time Hollywood incredibly refreshing. While I would have been happy just watching Stone and Gosling dance and flirt for the entire 128 minutes, this movie packs a serious punch as well. The cinematography was insane throughout and really brings the whole movie together. I thought the sound editing in this film was pretty good, save for a few chorus numbers, which is actually great accomplishment for a movie musical.… Expand

4 of 8 users found this helpful44

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10

JacobDec 26, 2016

La La Land is an incredible film. Fans of old school musicals will enjoy the homage and references the film gives. Those tired of it will appreciate the meta-self-aware approach the film has and how it finds something new to say about it.La La Land is an incredible film. Fans of old school musicals will enjoy the homage and references the film gives. Those tired of it will appreciate the meta-self-aware approach the film has and how it finds something new to say about it. Film buffs will enjoy the care put into the film from the cinematography, inclusion/lack of music, and meta-commentary. All of it comes together to form an incredible whole that deserves to be seen by everyone.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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4

finnigan37Dec 26, 2016

The film is beautifully shot and the actors give it their best but in the end it's just kind of boring and unoriginal. Trying so hard for award recognition at the expense of doing something more interesting.

9 of 21 users found this helpful912

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9

JustJudyDec 26, 2016

"La La Land" is a thinker. The well put together dancing, singing and conversation interaction is truly a walk through life with support. Music and conversation entwined perfectly. No guns, No bombing, no fires, no cuss words for affect. I"La La Land" is a thinker. The well put together dancing, singing and conversation interaction is truly a walk through life with support. Music and conversation entwined perfectly. No guns, No bombing, no fires, no cuss words for affect. I would see it again."… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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5

AxeTDec 26, 2016

Yet again the obscene over-praise by jackass critics who join the herd because they are incapable of thinking for themselves! This is why they are critics to begin with. This little movie is fine but sure isn't greatness as reviewers mightYet again the obscene over-praise by jackass critics who join the herd because they are incapable of thinking for themselves! This is why they are critics to begin with. This little movie is fine but sure isn't greatness as reviewers might attempt to make you believe. This is the age we live in. "Grease" was a much better musical. "Swingers" was a wittier and far funnier similar tale of making it in Tinseltown. Yet of course those two movies were not nominated by The Academy. This will be by those sheep because of a sheer decline in standards, and simply because it's a stupid musical. A musical made by a dopey millennial with a dopey millennial sensibility where phony dialogue and dopey millennial slight humor pass for adult reality. This unoriginal film is thin on all important plot and story craft if not on visual style and the maturity of its theme. The leads are a Canadian who wears his watch on the wrong wrist and an actress playing an actress who is not all that attractive. The film does stay with you though which is an important signifier of any truly good movie. However too little and too late in its running time does any sort of poignancy develop astute as that aspect is.… Expand

8 of 19 users found this helpful811

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0

perlmaneDec 26, 2016

How can you make a musical where the stars can't sing or dance? This movie is made for people who want to be "stars". Other than the Jazz, the rest of the music is uninspired. Other movies are much better to see than this one. Horrible.

13 of 45 users found this helpful1332

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9

BrianMcCriticDec 24, 2016

A joyous spectacle about the desire to dream in Los Angeles. The music is amazing with every shot of a musical number perfectly capturing that scenes purpose. The film is an all around dynamic achievement that should get many awardA joyous spectacle about the desire to dream in Los Angeles. The music is amazing with every shot of a musical number perfectly capturing that scenes purpose. The film is an all around dynamic achievement that should get many award nominations. It's one of the best of the year. A… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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10

thaotran202Dec 24, 2016

Speechless and sobbing. It's a normal love story that you have to be brave to be there. Be in love with someone is easy, but be in love with your dream is harder

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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6

Brent_MarchantDec 24, 2016

It's been said "They don't make musicals like this any more," and hopefully they won't in the future, either. Director Damien Chazelle's big budget overlong, cliched production provides a showcase for his potentially stellar filmmakingIt's been said "They don't make musicals like this any more," and hopefully they won't in the future, either. Director Damien Chazelle's big budget overlong, cliched production provides a showcase for his potentially stellar filmmaking abilities, but its largely forgettable soundtrack, plodding pacing and lack of viewer emotional engagement doom it to unending mediocrity that will likely have you checking your watch in anticipation of its long-awaited conclusion (as it did with me). Granted, the film is technically brilliant and nice to look at and features fine performances, singing and dancing. But its unoriginal story line, all-too-obvious thematic elements, underwhelming humor and inability to get viewers to feel much of anything for its protagonists undermine whatever goodwill is earned by its few strengths. This one's a reach that tries way too hard and never really satisfies.… Expand

7 of 20 users found this helpful713

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8

dspratlinDec 23, 2016

What’s it about?

An aspiring actress (Emma Stone) and a jazz musician (Ryan Gosling) meet and fall in love in Los Angeles, musical style. What did I think? La La Land is simultaneously a loving homage to the golden age of cinema andWhat’s it about?

An aspiring actress (Emma Stone) and a jazz musician (Ryan Gosling) meet and fall in love in Los Angeles, musical style.

What did I think?

La La Land is simultaneously a loving homage to the golden age of cinema and completely uncharted film territory; nostalgic and new all at once. It delivers the feelings of falling in love in a heady, melodic rush that’s absolutely captivating. It channels films such as "Singin’ in the Rain" and "An American in Paris" whilst navigating the modern pitfalls of romance. But it’s so caught up in the quirky and magical “newness” of its concept that towards the middle it seems to rely solely on that. Unfortunately, this means the pacing feels at odds with the gloriousness of the rest of the film. But the magic returns for a finale guaranteed to take your breath away.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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6

endaugustDec 22, 2016

Didn't live up to the hype. A tribute or a gimmick? Hard to tell sometimes. The love story is shallow and thus all the rendered emotions feel artificial and pushed. Emma Stone is quite lovable and her acting is note perfect. Ryan Gosling is miscast.

6 of 18 users found this helpful612

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7

TrevorsViewDec 21, 2016

It’s shot in cinemascope, it’s big on pizzazz, it’s packed with bold color schemes, the stage lights appear straight out of a dream, it’s big one minute and quiet the next, and every song and tune will replay in your head days after it’s allIt’s shot in cinemascope, it’s big on pizzazz, it’s packed with bold color schemes, the stage lights appear straight out of a dream, it’s big one minute and quiet the next, and every song and tune will replay in your head days after it’s all over. No, you’re not in the 1950s, and no, you’re not in Kansas anymore. This is the present-day reality. So forget about those loud action movies with no respect for the stage, La La Land proves what can and should be done with the long lost art that is the moving picture.

The joyful musical genre has been in the Hollywood cemetery for too long now, but even rarer now is a musical with entirely original music in an entirely original story, which director Damien Chazelle (Whiplash) achieves with expert choreography. While he may give Southern California a bit too overly glamorous of a view with no dark edge, he still recaptures the same zest of West Side Story while cranking the spectacle up a notch. It’s always a challenge for any serious director to stage a film where everyone breaks out into song without it oozing Disney Channel cheese, but Damien Chazelle has done it!

Within Chazelle’s cinematic recreation of Southern California, he fastens our seatbelts through the bumpy relationship between two artists over the course of four long seasons, starting at the heat of Christmas. One is a ruby-red aspiring actress who cannot land an audition, and thus must serve coffee under a careless manager to make ends meet. The other is a Fred Astaire-Dooley Wilson mash-up whose fast fingers command jazz on the piano, no matter what his boss wants him to play. After they first meet over road rage at rush hour, these distracted minds find that destiny has forced them together with coincidental run-ins day after day. Everything after that is as pure and classic as dancing under a full moon.

Once we learn about what these two have in common, boy is it the beginning of a beautiful friendship! He wants to revive Jazz as a modern art form, but she cannot stand listening to it, and this subject alone stems all the other conflicts that these two share over the course of a year. It is a pleasure to see the ups and downs of their romance, even if the other people in their lives are treated by the screenwriter as if they don’t even matter.

Yet it’s not the supporting cast who helps us to understand their relationship, but the numbers that project their thoughts onto the moment. On their first formal meeting, she hears his piano playing as lit by a single spotlight, as if she’s glancing into his own little world. On second formal meeting, they tap dance in front of a skyline at twilight. On the first date, they are swept off their feet—literally, to a dance against the stars in a planetarium. On the tenth date, they sing an Oscar-worthy duet. As time goes by, the dream of making it to the top of the world in Paris quickly diminishes. Her tears swell up along with the audiences’; I’ll even admit I choked up as well, and I’m a man.

This wide variety of tone in music is plentiful yet wisely spare, celebrating the history of cinema magic while wishing the best for its future. Yet also like the oldies it writes its love to, there are one too many white players in the production. There are two African Americans cast, but as dancers on the pier who say not a word, just as blacks were stereotyped in that golden age of Hollywood. If this production was less focused on making a musical spectacular and more focused on showing care and attention to today’s media-frenzied audience, then there would have been a better likelihood for this to surpass those repetitive comic book movies at the box office.

I sincerely hope for the day when people return to their senses and offer their money to movies because of their cinematic quality other than their branding. Considering how much music is now taking over our culture, we could use that reminder of how much music raises our self-esteem when times are hard. After seeing what La La Land can do with both old and new styles of filmmaking, I can absolutely assess that I love musicals all over again! Therefore, I encourage everyone to go see this magical delight to raise the spirits for 2017. After all, tomorrow is another day!… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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10

amalramDec 21, 2016

Absolutely stunning. I had to make a 260 km journey just to watch this movie and that means 5 hrs on train here. And it was totally worth it. Acting, Cinematography and the music, everything was was perfect. Soundtrack was magical.Just lovedAbsolutely stunning. I had to make a 260 km journey just to watch this movie and that means 5 hrs on train here. And it was totally worth it. Acting, Cinematography and the music, everything was was perfect. Soundtrack was magical.Just loved it. Watch it in theaters.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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10

ethanct86Dec 20, 2016

The opening shot of La La Land shows us a jammed highway of Los Angeles on a (snowless and warm) winter morning. Almost as if caused by the evident claustrophobia, everyone exits their cars and, on cue, sings us their individual stories. ThisThe opening shot of La La Land shows us a jammed highway of Los Angeles on a (snowless and warm) winter morning. Almost as if caused by the evident claustrophobia, everyone exits their cars and, on cue, sings us their individual stories. This is Los Angeles, the land where dreams are made and destroyed. People hop on cars, dance in sync for miles and miles, and play instruments out in the open like nobody cares. Magnificent. This is what the rest of the movie’s going to feel like.

Go back and read my first sentence again. I said “opening shot.” Yes, the entire opening scene is one whole goshdanged shot. The entire movie is made out of long shots. Most of the time, longshots don’t work well other than to show off some technical feat; they make you feel like you’re holding your breath for an unnecessarily long time. On the other hand, La La Land’s opening shot is like letting out a breath.This shot sets up the chaotic atmosphere of the first meeting between Mia and Sebastian. But it’s not how your typical friendship would start: Sebastian honks his horn at Mia with the what-the-heck look; Mia gives him the birdie and returns the what-the-heck look.

After that encounter we follow Mia around in her daily life. She’s an employee at a café in a major studio’s lot trying to make her big break in acting. Beginning with the incident on the highway, her day hasn’t been going too well. And after a party that frustrates her more than enlivens her—a funless event that ends with her car being towed—she follows a wisp of beautiful piano music that drags her inside a bar where she encounters the pianist: Sebastian.

Here we jump back to their first encounter in the morning, but this time, instead of following Mia this time, we follow Sebastian and note his daily life, too. He’s a jazz pianist struggling to pay his bills while his one job is in a bar playing boring Christmas songs that nobody wants to hear and he doesn’t want to play. Then, in a feat of both emotional bravo and idiocy, he plays an unassigned piece, consequently getting him fired. Mia approaches him, but he violently brushes past her. It’s like they were meant for each other but they don’t think so.

The story’s simple. Plot twist or surprises are lacking. It’s a path that goes up and down the bumpy road of their lives. A guy and girl meet, but their careers make their relationship to struggle. Should they follow their dreams, or sacrifice their dreams to spend time with each other? The story builds(or descends, depends on how you look at it) in small episodes that lead the tension to a depressing finale. Each episode is a link in a chain, not a piece of a puzzle where the story calls back the earlier scenes for an important event.

The finale is surprising at first, but—think about it—it appears that the movie has been leading up to it the whole time—we just didn’t see it coming because we hoped so much it wouldn’t happen.Director Damien Chazelle obsession with music is very evident, not only in the film but also within his career. His directorial debut was a musical much like La La Land; he made his sophomore product about a drummer and his violently dedicated band leader; he wrote a screenplay about a pianist who has to play a concert perfectly or else. Through his dedication that soaks through this dream project, La La Land soars beautifully.

Justin Hurwitz, Chazelle’s college roommate, composes a score so vibrantly rooted in the old musicals yet engrained with that modern 21st-century intensity (he had supposedly sent 1,900 piano demos to Chazelle before settling on... six songs). This is a guy to keep an eye out for.

There is no film like La La Land. Thinking revolutionary like Les Miserables? Or bombastic like West Side Story? Or oddly magical like Wizard of Oz?

This is the best way I can put it: it’s all the great movie musicals and romances you have seen, but, at the same time, it’s not. Though it borrows heavily from almost every classic, it is unique in its entirety. Don’t miss this movie. Some of you probably heard me quote this paragraph from The New Yorker’s Anthony Lane, and I can’t stress it enough:

“Catch the film on the largest screen you can find, with a sound system to match, even if that means journeying all day. Have a drink beforehand. And, whatever you do, don’t wait for a DVD or a download. The mission of this movie will be fulfilled only if it is seen by those—especially kids—… who may not know what busy thrills can bloom, without recourse to violence, from the simplest things.”

You won’t have another chance to see it in theaters until—maybe—it’s rereleased into theaters in a couple years. But by then, it’ll be too late and regret will not be enough to compensate your missed opportunity.… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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9

MaggothDec 19, 2016

Rather than being a merely another take on the musical genre, La La Land is a vivid and energetic cinematic experience, crossing borders between melodrama, comedy and coming-of-age story. Utilising near-perfect non-linear narrative, ChazelleRather than being a merely another take on the musical genre, La La Land is a vivid and energetic cinematic experience, crossing borders between melodrama, comedy and coming-of-age story. Utilising near-perfect non-linear narrative, Chazelle managed to create a modern fairytale, steering widely from the tacky, too-much-sugar approach to the subject matter. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling are top-class and watching and listening to their singing is sheer pleasure. I am convinced that La La Land will turn out to be a masterpiece of the generation, although it so richly finds its inspiration in the classic Hollywood cinema.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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10

moviemitch96Dec 18, 2016

Far and out the best movie I've seen all year, and with the very end of the year rapidly approaching, I think it's highly likely that it'll stay that way! I simply can't heap enough praise upon this film! Everything it about it was absolutelyFar and out the best movie I've seen all year, and with the very end of the year rapidly approaching, I think it's highly likely that it'll stay that way! I simply can't heap enough praise upon this film! Everything it about it was absolutely perfect and amazing! The song and dance numbers were all an absolute joy to watch and did such a wonderful job of paying homage to many golden age musicals and classic cinema! Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone have never been better and were perfectly in tune with each other! The story and message is universal and was one I certainly felt that I could relate to and many others as well I'm sure, because if there's any movie that you need to lift your spirits and remind you to always follow your dreams, this is the one to turn to without a doubt! Just when I thought that director Damien Chazelle couldn't possibly outdo himself after 2014's also brilliant "Whiplash", man was I in for a pleasant and more than welcome reality check with this film! Overall, it's a film that made me laugh, smile, and even just about cry tears of joy from start to finish! Why can't more films be as beautiful and joyful as this!? Then again, that's what'll help this film stand out all the more and make it remain not just as an even more unique and special film, but also an even more unique and special experience for years and years to come!… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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7

RatedRexDec 18, 2016

There used to be a time when movie critics were tough. I don't how many of you are old enough to remember Pauline Kael of the New Yorker, Vincent Canby on the New York Times, Gene Siskel of the Chicago Tribune, and of course, my favorite,There used to be a time when movie critics were tough. I don't how many of you are old enough to remember Pauline Kael of the New Yorker, Vincent Canby on the New York Times, Gene Siskel of the Chicago Tribune, and of course, my favorite, Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun Times. In those days, you couldn't just pop out a cute little movie and expect the critics to rave, uncontrollably. Those critics would dissect every fabric and every film cell. When they were done with their reviews you knew, pretty much, what to expect. But not anymore, cutesy movies like "The Artist", "Birdman" and "Silver Lining Playbook" and the like, are given way more credit than they deserve by today's movie critics. In fact, I think todays movie critics go overboard for anything that is just a little bit different. Well, "La La Land" is a little bit different. But its just a cutesy little movie that's nice and neat. That's all it is. All of the glowing praise by the critics is laughable. Actually the best parts of movie are the scenes with John Legend in them… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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6

ShowPonyDec 17, 2016

B- Literally most overrated movie in film history. Expected 2nd coming of "Citizen Kane." Unfortunately, it's the "Hairspray Live" of movies. Technical perfection can't help paper thin script, ridiculous opening "traffic" dance mess (noteB- Literally most overrated movie in film history. Expected 2nd coming of "Citizen Kane." Unfortunately, it's the "Hairspray Live" of movies. Technical perfection can't help paper thin script, ridiculous opening "traffic" dance mess (note to directors & producers: if traffic is stopped on the on ramp, edit free flowing traffic on freeway out of scene - duh!). Gosling & Stone are amazing but chemistry is more brother-sister than smoldering passion. John Legend is awful. Thankfully brilliant final 10 minutes elevates movie to a B- from a barely average C.… Expand

10 of 28 users found this helpful1018

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10

SpangleDec 16, 2016

Postmodernism is a film theory that suggests that there is nothing original anymore. If it could be made, it has been made and we are doomed to simply remake a once original idea in perpetuity. Postmodernism also includes ideas regardingPostmodernism is a film theory that suggests that there is nothing original anymore. If it could be made, it has been made and we are doomed to simply remake a once original idea in perpetuity. Postmodernism also includes ideas regarding nostalgia and hyperreality, positing that cities such as Los Angeles may physically be real, but are in fact, dream worlds that are not actually there. In Damien Chazelle's latest work and, dare I say already, his magnum opus, La La Land, this theory takes center stage. Presenting a world of nostalgia of past love, of old Hollywood, and of jazz, La La Land takes place in the hyperreality of Los Angeles. Though undeniably a celebration of the past and showcasing Chazelle's admiration for old school filmmaking, La La Land is also a critique of nostalgia.

To critique and subvert rules, however, you must understand them. You must embrace them and then tear them apart at the seams so that may no longer be put together. In the first half of the film, Chazelle does exactly this. With large, kinetic, and detailed choreography and musical scenes, the opening sequence is straight out of 1940s/1950s Hollywood with the golden age of MGM. On the wall of Mia Dolan's (Emma Stone) bedroom is a poster of Ingrid Bergman. Another poster in the common area of her apartment has a movie poster featuring John Lancaster and Ava Gardner. Mia works in the Warner Bros. lot across the street from where Casablanca was shot. She and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) have a first date watching Rebel Without a Cause at an old school moviehouse that uses film. The scene of Mia and her roommates strutting down the road is colorful, bombastic, and embraces the vibrancy of old school musicals. La La Land, right down to the details, is about old Hollywood. Similarly, it is about old school Jazz. Sebastian, a piano player, loves jazz and its history. He dreams of opening a jazz club honoring Charlie Parker in its title and replacing the bastardization of the music he loves with its pure past. With bright spotlights, a deep blue hue to the scene, and gorgeous suits, Sebastian's every look and action embraces the history of jazz. The film lush, jazzy score in these moments and its nostalgic song "City of Stars" embrace this world. Yet, both old Hollywood and old school jazz are merely a mirage now. "City of Stars" - a beautifully written and composed piece of music - is dreamy in its melody. It glides by and paints a gorgeous picture of a world that does not exist. This applies to the elements that celebrated here by Chazelle. They are in the past, though they can still be loved, they are not to be emulated. In creating this world initially though, Chazelle strictly follows postmodernism. He uses Los Angeles' hyperreality to create dream sequences that play out in real life. From Mia and Sebastian tap dancing with a view of the city beneath them or them floating up into the stars in an observatory, Chazelle highlights the city's dream-like state of being. During the entirety of the film, the city has a blue filter over it and the end result is that it feels distant and otherworldly. It never feels attainable and - in the minds of Mia, Sebastian, and the audience - the city exists solely in our dreams. And boy do our couple ever dream. Both have huge dreams and, initially, they encourage one another to follow these dreams. Mia follows her acting dream by writing her own one-woman play. Sebastian joins a band in order to raise funds. However, their obsession with the past tears them down. Mia fails. Her play is a failure and no one attends. Her only hope is a TV show that mixes Dangerous Minds with The OC and bears no resemblance to the old Hollywood style of filmmaking she so adores. Sebastian plays music in a band with a guy he hates as the lead singer and music that betrays the soul of the jazz music he loves. Both have sold out and have careened off course. Why? Because of the nostalgia. They became so infatuated with their love of the past, they tried to live it and become a part of the past. Unfortunately, time travel does not yet exist and this is impossible. Times change and things move forward. If you move to the past, you will be left behind in favor of the future. Here, nostalgia can be a destructive force and serves only to distract one from moving forward and attacking life. For Mia and Sebastian, their love of the past distracted them from their goals and, instead of working towards those goals, their reverse focus led to them walking backwards away from their goals. Their relationship even falls into this nostalgia, as evidenced by the very end. Chazelle breaks up the film into seasons, beginning with winter. Here, Mia and Sebastian are incredibly cold to one another and barely know each other. By spring, things heat up and begin to simmer. In summer, their love is brimming with happiness and joy.… Expand

6 of 11 users found this helpful65

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8

Compi24Dec 15, 2016

In just his second feature film, director Damien Chazelle has transcended to the heights of such auteurs as Jacques Demy and Vincente Minnelli; two other filmmakers who cut their teeth in adapting musical narratives that could only be toldIn just his second feature film, director Damien Chazelle has transcended to the heights of such auteurs as Jacques Demy and Vincente Minnelli; two other filmmakers who cut their teeth in adapting musical narratives that could only be told through the filmic medium. And make no mistake, "La La Land" is one of those narratives as well. Do not read about it. Do not ask your friends for the CliffsNotes version. Don't even preview the soundtrack on your train ride to the theater. Just go and experience this joyous, wickedly funny, impeccably well-realized jaunt through the stars. It's well worth the anticipation.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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8

swingDec 14, 2016

Acting was great. Dancing was ok Singing was eh. Story was really good and it was serious, and not comedy. There was lots more acting than singing or dancing, which disappointed me some. But, we definitely enjoyed the movie. I'd love to seeActing was great. Dancing was ok Singing was eh. Story was really good and it was serious, and not comedy. There was lots more acting than singing or dancing, which disappointed me some. But, we definitely enjoyed the movie. I'd love to see more movies of this type, but with people who can really sing (Anna Kendrik, Jeremy Jordan) and really dance (are there any around?).… Expand

6 of 12 users found this helpful66

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10

foxgroveDec 13, 2016

La La Land is that rare movie that starts at the top and then goes on and up. At a time when musicals are not at all fashionable this one knocks it out of the park on all emotional and aesthetic levels. It is without question the best film ofLa La Land is that rare movie that starts at the top and then goes on and up. At a time when musicals are not at all fashionable this one knocks it out of the park on all emotional and aesthetic levels. It is without question the best film of the year. An audacious opening song and dance number on an L A freeway sets the tone and here is where audiences will either embrace it or leave. Those who stay will be treated to one of those transcendent experiences that are all too rare in today's cinema. Who knew that Emma Stone could be this good demonstrating a range, and a voice, that takes one completely by surprise. Wonderfully supported by Ryan Gosling, the pair effortlessly create chemistry usually not seen outside a lab. Their renditions of a clutch of memorable songs are dynamically performed and stunningly choreographed. Stone's dulcet tones singing' Audition- The fools who dream' is heartbreakingly evocative and succeeds in raising the hairs on one's arms and neck. In fact the score and sound make the film seem like a throwback to an earlier age as does the gorgeous colour cinematography. Technically, every aspect of this unique entertainment has the wow factor. Emotionally the film is very well grounded with its biggest flight of fancy taking place at the Griffith observatory. Director Damien Chazelle trumps his achievement on 'Whiplash' by triumphantly reviving a moribund genre. That he has produced such a dazzling and accomplished piece of cinema in the process is no small feat. If this doesn't win best picture and actress at next year's Oscars (it will of course be loaded with them) then the Academy members themselves must be living in La La Land.… Expand

10 of 17 users found this helpful107

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10

moviefollower12Dec 12, 2016

Beautifully directed and choreographed, this is truly a film to behold. The magical song and dance numbers, the simple but deeply relatable storyline, and the fantastic performances from Gosling and Stone are all reasons to see thisBeautifully directed and choreographed, this is truly a film to behold. The magical song and dance numbers, the simple but deeply relatable storyline, and the fantastic performances from Gosling and Stone are all reasons to see this heartwarming and wondrous film.… Expand

9 of 15 users found this helpful96

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9

BHBarryDec 11, 2016

“La La Land” is a charming drama, romantic comedy and musicall tied together nicely by writer/director Damien Chazelle. Ably performed by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, the film tells the story of an aspiring actress and a dedicated jazz“La La Land” is a charming drama, romantic comedy and musicall tied together nicely by writer/director Damien Chazelle. Ably performed by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, the film tells the story of an aspiring actress and a dedicated jazz musician as they search to find and realize each of their respective dreams. Ms. Stone and Mr.Gosling have never been seen or known as singers or dancers so the viewer is at first suspect and in doubt that either of these two can properly fulfill the roles the parts demand. To the surprise and satisfaction of all involved, they are a delight to watch and listen to as they seque from drama to musical numbers all in a subtle and lovely transition. This also lends to the credibility of the film and its story under the able direction of Mr. Chazelle. The film also provides the viewer with a delightful series of songs and jazz sessions which add to the positive experience. I give this film a 9 for it is not only a sweet, simple and charming story of hope and ambition in the City of Los Angeles but a reminder that good films can still be made using the once forgotten formulae of mid-20th‘century moviemaking.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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10

SalmonPeachDec 11, 2016

Majestic! The setting is awesome, music is soulful and the story is so heart-warming. If you've always been skeptical about musicals, this movie is going to destroy all your doubt and principles about it. The Oscar's for best picture goes to...

11 of 17 users found this helpful116

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10

MoviebuffreviewDec 9, 2016

After watching this film at the Chicago International Film Festival, my original plan was to wait until closer to the film's actual release date to give my thoughts on it. However, after sitting with it for two days, with the images andAfter watching this film at the Chicago International Film Festival, my original plan was to wait until closer to the film's actual release date to give my thoughts on it. However, after sitting with it for two days, with the images and sounds still sweeping through my mind, I cannot help myself. I will be as vague as possible, because I do not want to ruin the experience of seeing it for the first time, but I have to talk about it.

La La Land, as it has been advertised, pays homage to classic movie musicals. Not only does it visually allude to films such as Singin' in the Rain and The Band Wagon, but it also preserves the upbeat, wondrous tone of those classics. There is something wonderful about seeing this tone and style recreated for a modern film. Cynicism and pretentiousness are completely absent from this film, and nostalgia and joy take their place.

But calling La La Land a terrific recreation of the classic movie musical is selling it short. Like director Damien Chazelle's previous work, La La Land has much more going on narratively than the movie may lead people to believe. On the surface, this is a love story about two artists trying to make their ways in Los Angeles. However, this framework is deceptively simple.

La La Land forces us to think about the realities of personal relationships and artistic endeavors. It explores the excitement of our dreams, the hardships of pursuing these dreams, and forces the audience to question the importance of both. Fortunately, Chazelle never looks down on the audience with these ideas. They are not presented in a heavy handed manner, and he never forces you to think a certain way.

On top of its thematic richness, La La Land has one of the best understandings of film as a storytelling medium that I have seen in recent years. On the surface, it is the most technically astounding. The cinematography is stunning, and the soundtrack is beautiful. Even better is that both the visuals and soundtrack are never used in a way that is shallow or uninteresting. La La Land has an understanding of how to tell a story visually. It understands the power of sequencing, the power images can have on the emotional impact of a story, and the way in which these images simultaneously indulge our fantasies and remind us of our humanity.

In other words, for me, it embodies everything that I love about movies.

There are instances that everyone can recall in a cinema where we have felt what I like to call "movie magic." These are evoked by the films that completely absorb us into its world, and movies that have a lasting, personal impact on us far beyond the theater. They are the films that we hold as the pinnacle of what makes watching movies so great.

La La Land is one of those movies.

During its 128 minute running time, the only time I wanted to look away from the screen was to turn to the people around me and check and see if they were experiencing the same kind of magic that I was. I can affirm that everyone I saw in my theater was.

La La Land is a masterpiece. It is not only the best movie of 2016 so far, but also possibly one of the best of the decade. It's spectacular, stunning, moving, and absolutely magical.… Expand

32 of 46 users found this helpful3214

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6

KaptenVideoDec 9, 2016

The dinner is served, girls and boys! Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are here to dazzle you with this movie musical serving as ode to both 1950's musicals and screenwriter-director Damien Chazelle's love for jazz. The story is generic but cosyThe dinner is served, girls and boys! Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are here to dazzle you with this movie musical serving as ode to both 1950's musicals and screenwriter-director Damien Chazelle's love for jazz. The story is generic but cosy as your favorite pillow: jazz pianist boy meets waitress / aspiring actress girl and they fall in love. And then a whole bunch of people dance and sing. The two lovely stars are both singing and dancing themselves, doing a good job at that. Still, personally I'd have chosen an actress with stronger onscreen presence to pair up with already-legendary Gosling. But you know, whatever.

I am not actually into musicals, so for me, by far the most impressive thing about this feel-good crowdpleaser is the boss man behind the screen: Damien Chazelle. The dude is only nearly 32 years old but he has done three movies already, always as a director and a sole screenwriter. You know him better as the author of 2014's majestic surprise hit "Whiplash".

So... go see it. If you like musicals, you will be pleased. If you don't care about them, there's still enough feel-good stuff to enjoy the ride for 128 minutes.

If you are a fan of "Whiplash" dying to get another dose of Chazelle, then be prepared for a nice surprise in the form of certain bald guy who should have a bigger role here for sure.… Expand

5 of 28 users found this helpful523

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La La Land

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