Enjoyed this lavish adaption

Rating: 7/10 (1 March 2018)

Enjoyed this one, an adaption of the classic novel following Toby Maguire as aspiring writer Nick Caraway. I liked Toby's narration and how the story was told from his perspective after he moves next door to aloof millionaire Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio). The two from a friendship... of sorts as Gatsby throws ever elaborate parties in the hope of rekindling his romance with Nick's unhappily married cousin Daisy. While these celebrations are spectacular some of the dancing/party scenes went on too long.
It's a visually stunning film with glamorous costumes and lavish production design, to the degree that it looks almost artificial or cartoony at times especially the New York scenery/bridge sections.
I liked the music (Jay Z ) even if it was jarring because it is so far removed from the period this is set in.
Toby's character while, yes meant to be an observer actually got to be a bit creepy as he is always lurking around watching with no real development on his part -flat.
Leonardo DiCaprio is fantastic as Jay Gatsby, displaying mystery, ego, madness, shy, nervous, longing and ultimately sad and lost. Joel Edgerton, also impressive as was Jason Clarke as George, a scene stealer I'd never head of before.