The casting pays real dividends as Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are perfectly cast and their on-screen chemistry is palpable. The film is also quite clever in its sometimes non-linear structure and the what ifs? provide the audience with more than one view of the on-screen proceedings. It’s clever in a way that doesn’t draw attention to itself in that look at me kind of way.

The story involves living in Los Angeles, being so close to grabbing the brass ring of success and what actually constitutes that success. That the film is satisfying on so many levels is down to a great script, assured direction and a structure that sells people breaking into song without pages of provocation. The songs are also a engaging example of what can be done with song and dance.

La La Land is a wonderful date flick (with tears flowing from some members of the audience) and provides a comforting sense of escape, if only for a few hours. With all the horrors of the year still fresh in one’s mind, what could be a better way to spend the time?

Rob Hudson
www.lalaland.movie

A huge hit with audiences and critics, La La Land is an exhilarating, music-filled romance starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone.

In modern day Los Angeles, two ambitious artists who fall in love – one a dedicated musician, the other an aspiring actress – chase their dreams and discover the joy and heartbreak of risking it all for your passion.

Daring, enchanting and heartfelt, La La Land re-invents the Hollywood classic for a new age, creating the kind of movie magic that sends you out of the cinema on a high.

www.lalaland.movie

Competition will be drawn 22 December 2016 – winners will be notified by mail.