(Directed by Damien Chazelle)
"A jazz pianist falls for an aspiring actress in Los Angeles." - IMDB
Well, probably the most hyped film of last year and I wanted to turn it off! It really does pain me to say that as I was really looking forward to it. I love a good musical. But, to be honest, even from the film trailer, I wasn't as enthusiastic as I would of liked to have been, I didn't get what it was.
The main reason I didn't like it was the plot. It was pretty flat. I got so bored by half way through. I think I was kind of confused as to what was going on and I couldn't 'get it'. I do know it was pretty much a love story about a pianist and aspiring actress who's relationship was tested etcetera etcetera. It felt like there should have been more to it. Nothing exciting happened, just when you thought it would.
I keep saying this but cinematically, it was fantastic. There were lots of scenes that were all one shot (I love a good continuous shot) and when they were dance numbers there's some pretty impressive directing going on! It was aesthetically pleasing and Emma Stone (Mia) looked stunning throughout! It saved the film to be honest.
A few of the songs were pretty good too. I particularly loved Mia's audition song, Fools who Dream.
Although I do feel like Gosling and Stone were both a bit uncomfortable with performing. They are actors after all! But they didn't do a bad job.
I'm surprised it's been nominated for so many Oscars. I'd like it to win Best Cinematography, Best Score or Best Song (although Moana is in that one...), Best Actress and/or Best Director. If it wins Best Film or Screenplay I'll be shocked! It doesn't deserve it. I reckon it'll do a 'Revenant' (I thought it was very similar in terms of plot against cinematography and acting.)
View the full nominations list here.
