Should ‘La La Land’ Have Won Best Picture at the 2017 Academy Awards?

The 2017 Academy Awards marked a pivotal moment in cinema history, with the film 'La La Land' winning six major awards, despite intense debate and criticism about its choice for Best Picture. The question of whether 'La La Land' deserved the top prize has sparked considerable discussion among film enthusiasts, critics, and industry professionals.

Arguments for 'La La Land' Winning

Cinematic Achievement

'La La Land' was celebrated for its visionary direction, cinematography, and musical score. Damien Chazelle's artistic vision brought a vibrant and enchanting experience to the screen, captivating audiences with its visual splendor and emotional depth. The film's use of color, movement, and symmetry were praised, creating a vivid picture of dreams and aspirations.

Cultural Impact

One undeniable strength of 'La La Land' was its cultural impact. The revival of the musical genre as a viable form of cinema reversed a perceived decline. The film resonated with audiences, drawing comparisons to musical classics like West Side Story. Its popularity brought renewed interest in musicals, which had been in relative obscurity for a decade.

Awards Recognition

The film's success was also evident in its numerous wins, including Best Director (Damien Chazelle) and Best Actress (Emma Stone). Its triumph at the Academy Awards reflected a strong show of support from the industry and critical acclaim.

Arguments Against 'La La Land'

Controversial Ending

For some, the film's ending was seen as disappointing and unconventional. Critics argued that the narrative left viewers with a sense of ambiguity and dissatisfaction, deviating from the expected happy ending of a classical Hollywood musical. This unconventional approach may have detracted from the film's overall appeal and emotional impact.

Competition

'La La Land' faced fierce competition from 'Moonlight,' which ultimately won the Best Picture award. 'Moonlight' garnered significant praise for its storytelling, representation, and emotional depth. The film was a poignant exploration of identity and self-discovery, which resonated with many viewers, particularly in the African-American community.

Narrative Focus

Critics pointed out that 'La La Land' placed a heavy emphasis on style and nostalgic elements, which some felt overshadowed the film's substance. While the vibrant backdrop and musical numbers were impressive, the romantic storyline and character development were sometimes overshadowed by the focus on aesthetics.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether 'La La Land' deserved the Best Picture award is a matter of personal preference and what one values in filmmaking. The decision to award the prize to 'La La Land' reflects the diverse perspectives within the Academy and the broader film community. Both 'La La Land' and 'Moonlight' have their merits, and the choice between them highlights the complexity of artistic recognition in the film industry.

While some view the award as a choice of "boring gimmicky garbage," others appreciate the film's unique vision and cultural impact. The debate continues, leaving a legacy of discussion and reflection in the world of cinema.