'La La Land' is a film about the optimism and talent it takes to succeed in the entertainment world. Its two leads, played by Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, fill their journey with music and passion in one of the great musicals to date.
Sebastian (Gosling) is a starving artist trying to reintroduce jazz music to a world that's long moved on. He works small gigs and has a real passion for playing the piano, specifically his own music. Someone who takes notice in his music is Mia (Stone), who's looking to make a name for herself on the silver screen. Together they find love and experiences all its ups and downs, through fantastical musical escapades.
The two leads are the heart of 'La La Land' and the film works best when they are together. Gosling really brings his A-game here, and hits with his own brand of humor, as well as the gravitas his character needs. Stone's portrayal of Mia is inspiring and shows the struggle of breaking in to the film industry. When the two sing 'City Of Stars' together, you really understand the creativity and wide-eyed view of art that they share. The musical pieces are truly awesome to watch, and pay homage to musicals of old. My favorites include the film's opening, where a group of drivers on an LA freeway are stuck in traffic and break into the song 'Another Day Of Sun', and the romantic performance of 'Planetarium.' In it, Sebastian and Mia romantically travel through the Griffith Observatory in true musical fashion.
I'd really not ruin much more of this film so I'll just cut to the chase. If you want to be thrilled and inspired, get up and go see 'La La Land' while it's still in theaters. It's nothing short of exceptional.
