Written by Terra Mahan
Modified & Updated: 23 Sep 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Welcome to the magical world of La La Land! This enchanting film captured the hearts of audiences around the globe with its captivating storyline, stellar performances, and mesmerizing cinematography. La La Land, directed by Damien Chazelle, is a modern-day musical that pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood while delivering a fresh and contemporary take on love, dreams, and the pursuit of success. From its dazzling dance numbers to its heartfelt ballads, this movie swept the 2017 awards season, breaking records and winning the hearts of critics and viewers alike. In this article, we will delve into 39 fascinating facts about La La Land that will give you a deeper appreciation for this iconic film. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of La La Land!
Key Takeaways:
- La La Land is a musical masterpiece that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, earning 14 Oscar nominations and showcasing the enchanting beauty of Los Angeles.
- Director Damien Chazelle’s dedication to authenticity and his love for musicals brought La La Land to life, sparking a revival of musical films and leaving a lasting impact on the movie industry.
Musical masterpiece
La La Land is a musical masterpiece directed by Damien Chazelle.
Release date
The movie was released on December 9, 2016.
Box office success
La La Land grossed over $446 million worldwide.
Awards and recognition
The film received 14 Oscar nominations and won 6, including Best Director and Best Actress.
Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone
The lead roles of Sebastian and Mia were played by Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, respectively.
Impressive chemistry
Gosling and Stone showcased their undeniable chemistry, which was pivotal to the film’s success.
Original music
The movie features original songs composed by Justin Hurwitz.
Opening freeway scene
The opening scene on the freeway was shot in one take.
Homage to classic musicals
La La Land pays tribute to classic Hollywood musicals like “Singin’ in the Rain.
The “City of Stars” song
The song “City of Stars” became an instant hit and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
The “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” song
Emma Stone’s rousing performance of the song “Audition (The Fools Who Dream)” was a standout moment in the film.
Unique color palette
Director Damien Chazelle used a distinctive color palette to evoke different moods throughout the film.
Filming locations
The movie was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, capturing the essence of the city’s vibrant and dream-like atmosphere.
A love letter to Los Angeles
La La Land showcases the enchanting beauty and cultural tapestry of Los Angeles, earning it the title of a love letter to the city.
Damien Chazelle’s dedication
Director Damien Chazelle spent six years developing the script and securing financing for the film.
Nominated for Best Picture
La La Land was nominated for Best Picture at the 89th Academy Awards.
Jazz music as a central theme
The movie explores the world of jazz music and its impact on the lives of the characters.
Sebastian’s obsession with traditional jazz
Ryan Gosling’s character, Sebastian, is a jazz pianist who dreams of opening his own traditional jazz club.
Mia’s pursuit of an acting career
Emma Stone’s character, Mia, is an aspiring actress who faces numerous rejections in her quest for stardom.
The observatory scene
The iconic scene at the Griffith Observatory showcases the magical connection between Sebastian and Mia.
Opening dance sequence on the highway
The energetic opening dance sequence of “Another Day of Sun” was choreographed with precision.
Costume design
The costumes in La La Land were meticulously designed to reflect the characters’ personalities and the film’s aesthetic.
Cinematography
The film’s breathtaking cinematography captures the nostalgia and romance of old Hollywood.
Director’s vision
Director Damien Chazelle envisioned La La Land as a modern-day musical that blends fantasy and reality.
Whiplash reunion
La La Land marks the second collaboration between Damien Chazelle and actor J.K. Simmons, who previously worked together on the film Whiplash.
A dreamlike quality
The film’s dreamlike sequences and vivid colors add to its whimsical and enchanting atmosphere.
Symbolism
Throughout the film, various objects and locations hold symbolic meaning, enriching the storytelling experience.
Ryan Gosling’s piano skills
Ryan Gosling took extensive piano lessons in preparation for his role as Sebastian.
Emma Stone’s audition tape
Emma Stone’s captivating audition tape for La La Land can be found online and showcases her incredible talent.
Damien Chazelle’s love for musicals
Director Damien Chazelle has expressed his lifelong love for musicals, which inspired him to create La La Land.
Jazz legends in the movie
Renowned jazz musicians like John Legend and Tom Everett Scott appear in the film, adding authenticity to the jazz narrative.
The influence of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers
The dance sequences in La La Land draw inspiration from the iconic partnership of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
A tale of dreams and sacrifices
La La Land explores the themes of pursuing dreams and the sacrifices required to achieve them.
The magic of movie musicals
The movie captures the magic and escapism that can be found in classic movie musicals.
A modern-day love story
La La Land tells a contemporary love story that resonates with audiences of all generations.
Chazelle’s dedication to authenticity
Director Damien Chazelle insisted on using real-life singers and dancers, adding an authentic touch to the performances.
The film’s emotional climax
The emotionally charged climax of La La Land leaves viewers with a lingering sense of melancholy and hope.
Impact on the revival of musicals
La La Land played a significant role in the revival of musical films, sparking renewed interest in the genre.
Cultural phenomenon
La La Land became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with its captivating storytelling and mesmerizing performances.
Conclusion
La La Land is truly a cinematic masterpiece that captivated audiences around the world. From its stunning visuals to its heartfelt story, this movie has solidified its place in film history. With 39 interesting facts about La La Land, we’ve delved into the behind-the-scenes magic that brought this enchanting musical to life. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply curious about the making of La La Land, these facts provide a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the dedication of the cast and crew. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to be transported to a world of music, dreams, and romance.
FAQs
1. Is La La Land based on a true story?
No, La La Land is not based on a true story. It is a work of fiction created by writer-director Damien Chazelle.
2. Did Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone really sing and dance in the movie?
Yes, both Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone underwent extensive training to sing and dance in La La Land. They worked closely with professional choreographers and vocal coaches to bring authenticity to their performances.
3. How many Academy Awards did La La Land win?
La La Land won six Academy Awards, including Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Original Score. However, it famously lost the Best Picture award to Moonlight in a memorable mix-up.
4. Where was La La Land filmed?
La La Land was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California. The movie showcases iconic locations such as Griffith Observatory, the Colorado Street Bridge, and the Warner Bros. Studios lot.
5. Why is La La Land called “La La Land”?
The title “La La Land” is a slang term for Los Angeles, often used to describe the dreamlike and sometimes superficial nature of the entertainment industry in the city. It symbolizes the characters’ pursuit of their artistic dreams in a city known for its glamour.
If you loved La La Land's enchanting portrayal of the City of Angels, fascinating jazz soundtrack, and Emma Stone's captivating performance, there's so much more to explore. Dive deeper into Los Angeles' rich history and culture, immerse yourself in the captivating world of jazz music that inspired the film, or discover the incredible journey of Emma Stone from rising star to Hollywood icon. Whether you're a fan of the movie, the city, the music, or the actress, these engaging articles will transport you even further into the magic of La La Land.
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