“La La Land,” released in 2016 and directed by Damien Chazelle, is a modern musical that pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood while also exploring themes of love, dreams, and the pursuit of success.
Set in Los Angeles, the story follows two aspiring artists, Mia Dolan (Emma Stone) and Sebastian Wilder (Ryan Gosling). Mia is an aspiring actress who works at a coffee shop on the Warner Bros. studio lot and attends countless auditions in hopes of achieving her big break. Sebastian is a skilled jazz pianist who dreams of opening his own traditional jazz club, preserving the genre’s authenticity in a moving world.
The two cross paths several times, with their initial interactions marked by comedic misunderstandings. As their lives become increasingly intertwined, a deep romantic connection blossoms. Through song and dance, the film captures the enchantment of their courtship, set against the backdrop of LA.
However, both Mia and Sebastian face challenges in pursuing their artistic aspirations. Mia struggles with repeated rejections in auditions, which begin to test her belief in herself. Meanwhile, Sebastian needs help staying true to his passion for jazz or compromising his artistic integrity to make a living.
Their individual pursuits and the pressures of their careers eventually lead to conflict in their relationship. As their dreams seem to drift further apart, they must make difficult decisions about their future together and individually.
“La La Land” pays homage to classic musicals, particularly Jaques Demy, and it celebrates the power of dreams and the sacrifices required to achieve them. With its bittersweet and reflective ending, the film underscores that success and love often come with complexities and trade-offs, but the journey makes life truly meaningful.
The Other Cinema 