As Good as a Gatsby Party Is Flashy

Rating: 9/10 (20 May 2013)

First, regarding the plot--fans of the book will be able to point out a few inconsistencies, but I think the movie actually helped me understand the book better. It isn't in perfect alignment with the book, but the way Luhrmann chose to portray the characters and the scenes effectively brings the conflict between hope and disillusionment into focus. The cinematography was stunning--this movie is worth seeing just for the glittering opulence that is a Gatsby party. Some may point out the fake quality of the scenes, but isn't that the point? And then there's the music. Jay-Z is absolutely brilliant, and even though the soundtrack heavily features rap in the Jazz Age, it fits perfectly. Lana Del Rey's "Young and Beautiful" is just, well, beautiful. So go get your flapper dresses and a group of friends, because The Great Gatsby is a must-watch. (But you should read the book first, just saying.)