A love letter to Hollywood with a modern twist

Rating: 9/10 (20 January 2017)

The first half and last scene of this film are simply, outrageously gorgeous. Amazing music, clap-your-hands-with-delight-dancing with quite the cast. It brings tears to your eyes, goosebumps to the back of your neck and a nostalgia even this 26-year-old can appreciate.
The middle third/half of the film brings the modern twist to this film; it shows the audience that the optimism of youth sometimes has to give way to practicalities of life; that sometimes means that you might have to 'cash-in' to fulfil the dreams of your younger self. This I think, is a great narrative to live by, especially for the generations after mine who seek fame for fame's sake rather than attempting to be the best at something first.
Now, I know some people say that there is a lot of 'mansplaining' in this film; that's for other people to decide. Since I'm a white male, I can't really comment on that. Another criticism that I had was the opening scene - as brilliant as it was - needed more......WOW factor; it's the opening of a musical, you can ramp up the volume, make things brighter and happier. Whilst it is amazing and awe-inspiring, you were straining to hear what was being said and - after the hype of this scene - you felt a bit.....meh.
Another criticism has been the last scene, personally, I loved it. It's a classic 'what could have been' that everyone feels at some point in their life. The idealised view that life could have been happier and racier. However, they have gotten to where they want to be and would they have managed that whilst being together? Who knows.
As the title says, this movie is a love song to classic Hollywood whilst poking fun at itself and having a liberal sprinkling of modern touches. I loved it though I do acknowledge the criticisms, some of which I accept, some I don't quite buy.