Fun, But Doesn't Live Up to the Hype

Rating: 6/10 (8 January 2017)

Unlike Bruce Springsteen in 1973 (and beyond), "La La Land" just doesn't live up to the hype. I love a good musical (and it's only fair to put this in perspective - subjectively speaking my favorite musicals include South Pacific (film and play), Singin' in the Rain (objectively best film musical), Miss Saigon, My Fair Lady (film), Little Shop of Horrors, Les Miz (play; the film was mediocre at best), and the musical scenes in Gremlins 2).
But while "La La Land" was generally fun, it lacked memorable tunes and outside of the two leads and J.K. Simmons, I'm having trouble remembering any of the other characters. While the "alternative universe" section near the end was very moving, the rest of the film just lacked soul.
I think it's so successful due, in part, to the hype and the mental depression more than half the voters are in following the monster's election Nov. 8. It's escapism that is badly needed. And its success also comes in part from the dumbing down of the American people (which accounts in large part for the results of Nov 8) most of whom wouldn't recognize a high quality musical.
I suspect the film will do well in the awards season, but if it garners the Oscar for "Best Picture," it will be another miscarriage of justice like "The Artist" winning over "Hugo" and "Gandhi" and "Chariots of Fire" winning at all.