Good not great

Rating: 6/10 (28 January 2017)

I just can't begin to understand the irrational hype over this movie. It is good. It's very beautifully filmed and edited, and has a intriguing, although well-worn story line. It boasts measured and tasteful acting as well as attractive actors, of course. It even features some really awesome jazz. But that's about where it ends. Shouldn't a musical include some actual song and dance talent? The dancing is, well, pedestrian. The singing ranges from decent to awful. It's difficult to understand who thought it was a good idea to cast Ryan Gosling in a singing role. It's more painful to listen to than Pierce Brosnan in Mamma Mia. La La Land will probably win lots more awards, I just wish someone would explain to me why.