Serial | Jun Makiguchi's Cinema Full Life: Part 11, La La Land

Serial | Jun Makiguchi's Cinema Full Life

Part 11: To the Fools Who Dream
La La Land

There are directors whose new films I eagerly anticipate, regardless of genre, story, or cast, simply because they are by that director. Damien Chazelle is one such filmmaker. His previous film, 'Whiplash,' which garnered attention despite his relative obscurity, masterfully depicted the ascent of a genius to heights unattainable by ordinary mortals, through the intense lessons between a young aspiring jazz drummer and a ruthless, unforgiving instructor. While some questioned the realism of its ferocious, Spartan depiction, I was personally left in awe of its superb visual storytelling, which seemed to visualize the attainment of a divine realm. The film also won a total of six awards, including Best Director and Best Actress. The Best Director award was a remarkable feat, making him the youngest recipient in 86 years at the age of 32.

Text by MAKIGUCHI June

To the Fools Who Dream

Fundamentally, film is an illusion, and even if based on fact, the world presented is a distorted one. Of course, adhering to realism is perfectly fine. However, the reality of film should ultimately be judged by the emotions and sentiments that emanate from worlds that can only be expressed through illusion. The true essence of cinema, and the director's skill, lies in creating moments that, while known to be artificial, offer a brilliant glimpse into human truth and stir the audience's hearts. Chazelle is one of the select visual artists capable of this.

As if to mock those who quibble about the film's realism, the director has chosen a visual style for his new work that can be considered the pinnacle of "creation": the musical. The protagonists are Mia, who works at a café in a film studio while aspiring to be an actress, and Sebastian, a pianist who dreams of opening his own jazz club to play the music he loves. The film depicts their encounters, their falling in love, and their growth as they encourage each other, set against the backdrop of Hollywood, the land of dreams. Their initial meeting is disastrous, followed by a chance reunion, and they bicker whenever they see each other. Yet, they fall in love without realizing it... With a plot that seems like a quintessential Hollywood musical, the film relentlessly pursues the path of supreme entertainment with its delightful music and joyful dance numbers.

Even with a predictable narrative, the sheer enjoyment makes it immensely satisfying. And just when you think so, the reality Chazelle has prepared for this installment blossoms in the ending. This is despite his thorough commitment to "Hollywood-style creation" throughout, employing cinematic language to its fullest. It is a masterful touch that, after drawing the audience into a world of fantasy, the film delivers a surprising dose of reality at its conclusion. This is where the film's true charm and depth lie.

The ending conveys a message the director has long held close to his heart.

“Do you have the courage to chase your dreams, even if it seems foolish? And do you have the resolve to make those dreams come true?”

This is a theme that was repeatedly posed to the audience in his previous film, 'Whiplash.' It suggests that those with talent carry a burden and a responsibility. Successful individuals must accept this and be prepared to pay the price for it throughout their lives.

Dreams are sweet while they last. But the reality that they are no longer merely sweet the moment they are realized can be poignant. Yet, it is precisely for this reason that those who commit themselves and persevere are beautiful.

The dreamlike world of the musical, the beautiful dance scenes, and the glamorous music all seem to serve merely as supporting elements to emphasize this message.

The film's high regard within the industry, evidenced by its record 14 nominations at this year's Academy Awards, is also a topic of discussion. This is likely because it resonates with peers who understand the true meaning of the message he has embedded within the work.

This film, delivered from the dream factory of Hollywood, dazzlingly portrays the interplay between dreams and reality. It is perhaps an anthem for the beloved fools who continue to chase their dreams, and simultaneously, a cheer for the former fools who now live in the reality beyond their dreams.

★★★★★
It's a musical, but the message is robust. I was thoroughly satisfied with the dancing, music, and story!

La La Land
Directed and Written by Damien Chazelle
Starring Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, J.K. Simmons, and others
Distributed by Gaga / Pony Canyon
Now Showing!
© 2017 Summit Entertainment, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
EW0001: Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) and Mia (Emma Stone) in LA LA LAND. Photo courtesy of Lionsgate.

Jun Makiguchi
After working for Kyodo News, a film festival secretariat, and a magazine editorial department, she became an independent writer. She currently writes film columns and interviews for women's and men's magazines, focusing on fashion, food, music, and other lifestyle-related topics within cinema.