Nearly ten years have passed since Damien Chazelle’s La La Land captivated audiences and earned him an Academy Award for best director. The musical, starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling remains a beloved tribute to Los Angeles and the magic of cinema. Chazelle’s journey with the film has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by memorable moments and a lasting impact on the industry.
The inaugural Cartier Cinema Club dinner at Venice’s Gritti Palace honored La La Land with a stunning evening overlooking the Basilica della Salute. Chazelle, reflecting on the event, expressed his affection for Venice and the festival, calling it a chic experience that few can match. The celebration brought together a constellation of stars, including Amal ClooneyChloé Zhao and Kate Mara who shared their experiences and insights.
La La Land’s Journey from Venice to the World
La La Land made its debut at the Venice Film Festival on August 31, 2016, marking the beginning of its remarkable journey. Ten years later, Chazelle finds himself in London, working on a new film that reunites much of the La La Land crew, including songwriter Justin Hurwitz and editor Tom Cross. The new project is expected to be completed by early next year, but the anniversary celebration was a moment to reflect on the past.
Chazelle’s connection to Venice extends beyond La La Land. Growing up in Princeton he would drive to Lawrenceville, New Jersey for drum lessons with the late Tony DeNicola a relationship that inspired his breakout film Whiplash. These personal anecdotes add depth to Chazelle’s cinematic journey, highlighting the influences that shape his work.
The Stars of La La Land and Beyond
The anniversary celebration was a star-studded affair, with notable figures from the film industry in attendance. Orlando Bloom who has his own triumph this year with Bucking Fastard shared his admiration for working with iconic director Werner Herzog. Bloom’s portrayal of an Irish rogue in the film showcased his versatility and dedication to his craft.
Kate Mara and her sister Rooney Mara delivered a remarkable performance in Bucking Fastard, with much of their dialogue performed in unison. Mara spoke about the unique dynamic between siblings and the importance of embracing their similarities. The preparation for their roles involved extensive rehearsals and vocal coaching, resulting in a performance that is truly incredible to witness.
The Enduring Legacy of La La Land
The evening at the Gritti Palace was a testament to the enduring legacy of La La Land. As the party moved to the rooftop, guests took in the beauty of Venice by twilight, reflecting on the film’s impact and the memories it has created. Chazelle’s journey from the pits of uncertainty to the heights of success is a story of passion, dedication, and the power of cinema.
La La Land In Concert, a live-to-film celebration with a full orchestra, brought the magic of the film to audiences in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. The concert experience showcased the captivating story of a pianist and an actress who fall in love while pursuing their dreams in Los Angeles. The film’s composer, Justin Hurwitz conducted the orchestra at the Sydney show, adding a special touch to the celebration.
As we look back on a decade of La La Land, it is clear that the film’s legacy continues to inspire and captivate. The anniversary celebration in Venice was a fitting tribute to a cinematic masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the world of film.
