La La Land

I was totally enchanted by this film. It reminded me of Oliver, The Sound of Music and West Side Story (all favorites of mine); not thematically, but in the sense that it IS the musical of a generation. Many criticized it for Emma and Ryan's lack of musical chops. It is precisely that reason that I found them so charming. Yes, they weren't So You Think You Can Dance-quality dancers. Nor were they singers one would see on the finale of The Voice. But they effortlessly stretched themselves beyond their comfort zones and for me, the results were mesmerizing. Btw, Ryan is an accomplished pianist. Film stayed with me as no movie has in recent history. It is a work of art; and as in all art, it is the expression of creative souls. If you don't like something about any expression of art, it is not fair to criticize it, other than expressing how it makes YOU feel. If you don't like the creator's expression, make one that expresses your feelings and visions. All if which to say I loved La La Land and it hit me hard in the gut. For me, not only the best picture of 2016, but the best picture I've seen in recent memory. Critics be damned. If you lived LLL, see Whiplash by same creators

I'm giving this three stars because it was mediocre. Both Emma and Ryan did a good job in their roles, but their singing leaves something to be desired. It could be worse though. The music isn't memorable. Only three of the songs I could say that I liked, but I won't be listening to the soundtrack. The movie was beautiful, very bright and colorful. As for the story, I think I liked that the best. It was realistic to me, showing how not every ending ends as a fairytale.

La La Land is one of my favorite musicals. It is fun and entertaining to watch! The songs are phenomenal and Ryan and Emma have amazing chemistry together in the movie. Even though the storyline in the movie is very simple, you still enjoy the journey of these two characters throughout the film and their romance.The cinematography is beyond amazing and I loved the 40's and 50's vibe of the movie that relates to old classic musicals like Singing in the Rain and The Umbrella's of Cherbourg. La la land is filled with love, emotion, and heartbreak that keeps you on your toes. The fashion, the music, the dance numbers, all were amazing and created a fantastic movie that I will remember for a long time.