The magical symphony of ‘La La Land’
When ‘La La Land’ premiered in 2016, it mesmerized audiences not just with its vibrant cinematography and compelling performances but significantly through its remarkable soundtrack.
The film’s music, crafted by composer Justin Hurwitz, played a pivotal role in reviving the spirit of the golden age of Hollywood musicals, blending classical techniques with contemporary sensibilities to forge an emotional and nostalgic experience.
Narrative and emotional enhancement through music
The soundtrack of ‘La La Land’ goes beyond mere background music; it serves as a narrative force propelling the story.
From the buoyant opening number “Another Day of Sun” to the introspective “Mia & Sebastian’s Theme,” each piece meticulously underscores the film’s emotional and narrative arcs.
The music invites the audience to truly feel the highs and lows of the protagonists’ journeys, echoing their passions and dreams.
Key compositions and their impact
“City of Stars,” a hauntingly beautiful duet performed by Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, not only captures the essence of the characters’ shared ambitions but also encapsulates the overarching theme of aspirations in the face of adversity.
This piece particularly stands out as a symbolic anthem for the dreamers, garnering the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Cultural and historical significance of the soundtrack
The success and appeal of ‘La La Land’s’ soundtrack contributed significantly to a renewed interest in the musical film genre, a style that had seen waning popularity in preceding decades.
It paid homage to classics like ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ and ‘The Umbrellas of Cherbourg’, yet its unique modern twist appealed to a contemporary audience, highlighting the timeless nature of musical storytelling.
Anecdotes from behind the scenes
Composer Justin Hurwitz spent years crafting the specific sound for ‘La La Land,’ employing a traditional symphony orchestra and integrating jazz influences to reflect the film’s setting in Los Angeles.
An interesting tidbit is that many of the film’s songs were recorded with a live orchestra, with actors performing in sync with the music, which is a rarity in modern filmmaking. This method significantly contributed to the authenticity and immersive experience of the musical sequences.
In reviving the classic Hollywood musical, ‘La La Land’ has not only provided a template for future musicals but also reinstated belief in the genre’s potential to convey profound human emotions and narratives through music.
The soundtrack of ‘La La Land’ stands as a beacon of artistic achievement, showcasing the power of music to transcend mere storytelling and tap into the deeper, universal desires of the human spirit.
In examining the film’s cultural impact and its magnetic music, it’s evident that ‘La La Land’ has carved itself a permanent niche in the annals of film history, reminding us why we fell in love with musicals in the first place.
