Jazz enthusiasts have varying opinions about the film La La Land, which was released in 2016. Some believe that the film’s portrayal of jazz is not accurate, while others appreciate the film’s attempts to celebrate the genre.
La La Land’s portrayal of jazz has been a subject of criticism among some jazz enthusiasts. They argue that the film’s representation of jazz lacks the authenticity and complexity that the genre deserves. In an article from JazzTimes, critic Nate Chinen explains that “the jazz in La La Land feels sanitized, sanitized to the point of meaninglessness.” Chinen believes that the film’s version of jazz is too simplistic and doesn’t capture the improvisational and exploratory nature of the genre.
However, not all jazz enthusiasts feel the same way. Some appreciate the film’s efforts to celebrate jazz and bring the genre to a wider audience. In an article from The New Yorker, critic Richard Brody argues that La La Land “succeeds in rekindling the dream of the great movie musical as a genre of cinematic expression that’s all but given up the ghost.” Brody acknowledges that the film may not be a perfect representation of jazz, but he believes that its tribute to the genre is sincere and heartfelt.
Despite the mixed opinions among jazz enthusiasts, it is clear that La La Land has had an impact on the genre. The film’s success has brought jazz into the mainstream conversation and has introduced the genre to audiences who may not have been familiar with it before. In an interview with NPR, jazz musician and composer Wynton Marsalis acknowledges the film’s influence, saying that “it’s great that people are talking about jazz.”
In conclusion, jazz enthusiasts have varied opinions about La La Land’s portrayal of the genre. While some criticize the film’s simplistic representation of jazz, others appreciate its efforts to celebrate the genre and bring it to a wider audience. Regardless of the opinions, the film’s success has undoubtedly had an impact on the conversation surrounding jazz in popular culture.
