Very original film worthy of its hype (if you appreciate filmmaking).

Rating: 10/10 (2 March 2017)

I don't like musicals at all, but I loved La La Land. The reason for this is simple: It's unlike any movie I've ever seen. I have a huge appreciation for the way films are made, so when I watch one as innovative as this, it's really special.
The plot of La La Land isn't really what the hype is all about. Two twenty somethings fall in love while trying to achieve their dreams in L.A. That's pretty much it. The plot moves slowly at times because a lot of the film relies on visuals, not dialogue. I think this is the main reason people don't understand the hype surrounding La La Land, and I totally get that!
However, if you know anything about the way movies are made, you understand EXACTLY what the hype is about. The cinematography is so unique. I've never seen light implemented quite like this before in all my years of watching movies. The chemistry between Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling is palpable, and even though they aren't professional singers by any means, there is so much heart in their singing that it doesn't matter. The score is superb. The costume design is effortless and brilliant. The musical talent of Gosling on the piano is wonderful. La La Land is reminiscent of old Hollywood in a way that will make you feel nostalgic for a time and place you've never even been to.
So, if you don't like La La Land, that's totally fine, but I recommend you watch it a second time with a more careful eye. The hype surrounding this film isn't about what you see at first glance, but about all the little details that bring it together. A movie like this doesn't come around very often -- that's WHY it's "overrated".