Weeks have passed, and the movie La La Land is still running through my system. I am convinced it probably will be a part of me for the rest of my life. That's how good it is. That's how extremely captivating an experience it is. Here are just a few of the very many reasons why I found it so beautiful, and why I think you will to:
1. The Music
...is stunning. I have been playing it non-stop for weeks. Rich with soulful, joyful jazz and catchy melodies, each track stays with you for days and serves as a great accompaniment as you ride off into the sunset after a long day at school or work. The vocals are beautiful, especially worthy of appreciation since they are contributed by relatively inexperienced singers Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone (a match made in musical heaven on top of acting heaven, I might add). I love the punchy trumpets, the fun vibraphone riffs, the heart-tugging string section, and of course, the "could-never-even-dream-of-playing-that-well-myself" runs up and down the piano.
2. The Storyline
...is enrapturing. It keeps you interested the entire time and flows so effortlessly throughout the entire movie. The characters and the scenes are relatable; nothing seems forced. It captures love and the pursuit of dreams. Just like a dab of 'Vicks' opens up all the airways you didn't even know you had, this movie peels back all the layers of emotions you possess within the two hours it spends with you. It's a beautiful, well-thought-out story (even though there is a twist I still cannot get over... enough said... don't want to spoil anything.)
3. The Characters
...are so sweet! The love they have for each other seems realer than real life. I mean, just watch the utter joy on his face when she sits down beside him at the theater. Listen to their laughter while they sing "City of Stars" together. He's such a gentleman, opening her car door for her, cooking for her... It's undeniable - they've got semester after semester of Chemistry!
4. The Music
...did I mention this already? Refer to #1. It's just so good it deserves 2 spots.
5. The Music
...or maybe 3 spots?
6. The Cleanliness
...is refreshing. Besides a couple words and a short scene or two, I was overjoyed to see how appropriate the entire movie was. So many movies today take advantage of their ratings, trying to fit in as much as they can before having to move up the rungs to PG-13, R, etc. Not so with La La Land. Its focus was pure. It was tasteful and I really appreciated that.
7. The Colors, The Props, The Costumes
...were eye-catching. There was just such a feeling of joyfulness and positivity mixed in with the choices of wardrobe and sets in each scene. It's something you can't really fully put your finger on and describe, but the whole movie just oozed elegance and spunk all at the same time. It was upbeat and vibrant. Even just the purpely sky in the posters is beautiful.
And, finally...
8. The Music
...just because it was so perfect. ;)
I wish it and all the talented people involved the best at the Oscars... but no matter the outcome, it's for sure going to be the winner in my book!
