Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, JK Simmons
Director: Damien Chazelle
Perhaps with all the things going on in the world right now, a musical is just what we need. So often, amusingly, musicals are about dark subjects, but told lightly. And I kind of like that about musicals (watch Meet Me In St. Louis again if you don’t know what I’m talking about). Here, the tensions between an actress and a jazz player (Stone and Gosling) as they meet cute in LA, and initially don’t like each other, are explored, as well as the changes when one of them starts to be more successful than the other. I won’t go into it too much, but there is not all sunshine and roses here, though the overall tone is happy.
What I really liked about the film is the gentle use of humour, with Gosling being gently hilarious, and Stone is as delightful and warm as always. They work well together. I also liked the use of a lot of primary colours, and strong postcard-like visuals. It’s a beautiful film to look at, with so many little moments. There are also many references to Old Hollywood, with classic movies talked about, and old movie posters or stars gracing the backgrounds. A homage to classic Hollywood. It’s interesting to me that a lot of the musicals that were made back then came out in response to the darkness of the second world war, as a kind of antidote. Perhaps there are some parallels in that, which I won’t explore right now… I also have to say that the songs are quite catchy, and the little dance numbers are beautifully done.
Either way, if you like musicals, if you’re a romantic or if you’re one of those who have a longstanding crush on Ryan Gosling, you’ll find much to love here. But for me… You know, I just don’t like musicals.
See It If: I can’t say I didn’t enjoy this film, I did, there’s nothing wrong with it. But perhaps I’m just too cynical to really love it. That’s personal opinion only, and I do recommend it to those of you who like this sort of thing. You know who you are.
I’ve got to see this! Thanks for posting!
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome! Yes, it’s a must see after last nights Oscar mishap too!
LikeLike
I watched it few days ago and it has what it takes to be musical! Personally, I really love it! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s good! It’s great to find a film that “gets” you and makes you feel something. ❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
And the depression before that.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Looks like worth checking out. Gosselin and Stone had great chemistry in crazystupidlove.
LikeLiked by 1 person
They do have wonderful chemistry here too. 😃
LikeLike
I’m definitely one of those people, I LOVE musicals and this one was no exception 🙂
Rachael xx.
theteacozykitchen.blogspot.co.uk
LikeLiked by 1 person
He he. I’m glad, that’s good to hear. 😀
LikeLike