Written and directed by Damien Chazelle, La La Land is the pinnacle of musical romance in film, serving as a celebration of human connection and an exploration of the challenges faced in navigating the intricacies of personal growth. La La Land follows two lonely romantics whose paths unexpectedly cross in pursuit of their dreams, yet their relationship deteriorates in favour of their careers. Starring Ryan Gosling in the role of Sebastian, an ambitious jazz musician, alongside co-star Emma Stone in her dramatic role as aspiring actress Mia, the movie conveys a powerful message about letting go.
Love, although timeless, often lurking in the background of many movies, is a central concept intersecting the complexities of timing, beautifully depicted by Damien Chazelle. Serving as an exploration of the age-old choice between love and career, Mia and Sebastian’s love story unfolds against a backdrop of individual pursuits, leaving their love to stand the test of distance and aspiration. La La Land portrays a romanticized view of the world, allowing escapism for the viewer through elements of euphoric imagery and music, coming together flawlessly to present a tangible hold on an emotional level. Leaving viewers grappling with a looming question: What happens when you meet the right person at the wrong time?
Throughout the movie, bittersweet romance is explored through colour and music. Characters develop from monotone colours to vibrancy at the peak of their relationship. Presenting a dream-like aesthetic, it celebrates the thrill of following your heart and having the strength to let go, rooting for your once-lover even in separation. The beautifully composed music bridges confrontations between the characters and serves as a chance to bring reconnection and closure, weaving nostalgic elements into their journeys that foster self-discovery and growth.
La La Land challenges our understanding of love, forcing us to confront external factors that shape our destinies, as time seems to stand still when you achieve your dreams at the cost of losing someone you love. Loving someone means rooting for their happiness, even in separation. It portrays love as ever-changing, where letting go is sometimes the ultimate act of care. The gut-wrenching quote, “I’m always going to love you,” conveys an impenetrable sense of longing, where your heart knows what’s best for you. It is truly a film of films where lives are driven by passion, showing how infectious it can be.
Illustration by Lydia Kempton