At a first click, having Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone in another 'romance' movie (anyone remember "Crazy, Stupid, Love"?) seems like a trailer worth skipping. Add in the fact that this is a musical, too, and a lot of interest can go out the window for some. But before you spend a million bucks on a ticket and small popcorn for a different film, give "La La Land" a closer look.

This movie is directed by Damien Chazelle, known for directing and writing the 2014 three-time Oscar winning drama "Whiplash," and if you haven't seen that film either, then you have some homework to do. I'm no professional movie critic, but Chazelle knows how to capture a beautifully lit music moment.

Sebastian, played by Ryan Gosling, continues to portray passion in such an intimate way -- and I'm not referring to love interest Mia by Emma Stone. It's his performance on the piano that captures the emotion of the film. Without any spoilers, there is one song that takes the heart and soul of the audience. Justin Hurwitz is the composer for the film and I applaud his grace.

But oh, let me tell you, this film isn't all about love. No no, this is something every college student should sit down to watch. It's about chasing passions, as impossible as they may seem. It's starting your career from nothing, taking the hits of life along the way. It's tears in the street, doubting your dreams. It's the people in your life who are the stepping stones to achieving everything you've thought could be too good to have. It's knowing that letting go can actually be the best thing to have happened to you.

If you're looking for a modern twist on an old Hollywood feel, this is the movie to see. I walked out of the theater humming the tunes and feeling a replenished sparkle in my eye for life. Those are always the best feelings to have after walking out of the theater. La La Land is a happy mix of stunning scenes, a dash of musical appeal, and a whole lot of hope.