Lala Land (2016)
The most accessible modern musical.
Presentation:
Damien Chazelle delivers another top notch musical piece after the explosive success of Whiplash. With a big budget, everything is more stylized, colorful and extravagant. Pretty pictures are nice, but the core of a musical should be the music. And there are definitely some catchy tunes and good listens. At the heart of it all is a story that leaves you invested in the characters. Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling have so much on-screen chemistry.
Conclusion:
Although I liked the ending, I can't help but feel the message of the film (chase your dreams not your loved one) is not an apt metaphor for music. Even the musicians should disagree. Regardless, it is refreshing and even a bit avant garde, unexpectedly leaving you wanting more for an unsatisfying conclusion, which I suppose is actually quite satisfying! Whether it'll make you want to watch it again is a bit murkier, but you'll definitely want another listen.
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Recommendations
The most accessible modern musical.