La La Land

Parental Rating: PG-13

Contains: Language    Adult Content    

Jill's Review

Opens December 16, 2016

Runs 128 minutes

Mia (Emma Stone) is an aspiring actress, working in a coffee shop on the Studio lot and sneaking off to audition as much as possible. Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) is a jazz musician who longs to open his own club and play the standards - even though no one seems to like jazz any more. Mia and Sebastian don't hit it off right away but continue to run into one another. Soon, they are sharing their lives and their dreams together.  But, as their careers begin to take them in opposite directions, is their love strong enough to weather the storm?

Loved it! The film was a perfect blend of nostagia, romance and whimsy set in the modern world. It almost felt like a fantasy. I especially loved the opening musical number on the freeway! Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling were just magnetic in this film. They have such fantastic chemistry and so much talent. Emma is a slightly better singer but the singing was just a part of the overall film. I think it was important that they were just two people singing like regular people and not like Mariah Carey. Their dancing wasn't too shabby either. A little quibble...a cell phone call here or there could have solved a problem or two. But, overall the film was gorgeous and enchanting. The colors were lovely and the soundtrack was so captivating. The film does a nice job showing that making it in Hollywood or even in life takes work and sacrifice, even for two beautiful people. Another winner for director Damien Chazelle (who last directed Whiplash). A modern musical that makes you long for the days of Fred and Ginger. One of my favorites this year. Go see it!

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