A worth-the-hype must-see musical drama

Remember seeing a BBC report titled "Has la La Land been overhyped?" shortly after the Oscar nominations were announced. Didn't read it. Thought I'd decide for myself. Now I can say, no, it certainly has not.

For me, if there is one thing about a film that touched me, then it is a good film for me. There has been plenty with La La Land.

Knowing that this is a musical drama, I expected flashy musical scores and dance routines. And yes, it opened with one. But that's about the only one. The rest of the music are nothing but classy and soul. When a song moves you to tears the first time you hear it, you know this is it. This is the real deal.

Music is not the only good thing about La La Land, as the record number of Oscar nominations reflected. It is a film about love. It is about struggle. About dream. And life. Every single theme screams cliché. At such a time and age it is so hard to impress an audience. Yet La La Land did it splendidly, in a way that is old-fashioned and newfangled at the same time. It combines nostalgia and with the digital age. It touches you to the core while satisfying all your senses. It is pure genius on the creator's part.

Now, the acting. It hardly seems fair if I don't mention Emma Stone in this review. For someone who is no fan of any female celebrities, this is a ground-breaking first and a heart-felt kudos to the brilliant actress who is simply too good to be passed. Musicals rely heavily on acting to remain grounded and connected to the audience. Emma Stone's performance did just that. I normally do not like fancy wannabe actress type of character. But hers is an exception, owing largely to her fabulous portrayal. Gosling was simply outshined in comparison. Sorry, Gosling fans.

Let me finish with my new favorite song from this movie, which I've been playing in my head all my way back from the cinema: The Fools Who Dream. The song speaks to every one. Find some Kleenex. It might come in handy.

"Here's to the hearts that ache. Here's to the mess we make. Here's to the fools who dream, crazy ass they may seem."

Thanks @sevenagesmusical for this wonderful opportunity!