The gloriously entertaining and wildly satisfying “La La Land” is no doubt the awards season’s go-to film.
Filmmaker Damien Chazelle pulls out all the stops for his sophomore attempt at writing and directing for the silver screen and his efforts are more than appreciated. The script was witty yet tame, original yet familiar, giving off all the panache of an old school musical with an appropriate dash of exceedingly well-constructed melodrama.
Ryan Gosling wails on the piano, flexes unexpected golden pipes, then tips and taps à la Gene Kelley all the while maintaining his trademark smolder.
Emma Stone rocks out as a leading lady for the ages belting out wicked notes and dancing along in a manner that would make the late Debbie Reynolds proud.
Their chemistry is atomic and would be enough to carry the picture all on their own. Yet on top of all this hovers a lovely set list of original, singable songs to tap your foot to.
The only flaw of the whole film, if any, is that I wish there were more songs and dances.
“La La Land” is the goldy locks of Hollywood movies that we’ve all been anticipating. It doesn’t try to be overly funny; yet, isn’t unnecessarily straining on the heart. It is flamboyant and colorful, yet palatable and intriguing.
Not too long, not too short, doesn’t try too hard to don an overly done musical façade; every thing is just right. When it’s all said and done you’ll want to either go see it again or go to a jazz club.
I give “La La Land” 4/4 stars
