Film: The Great Gatsby
Best Song: ‘Young & Beautiful’ by Lana Del Rey
Review: The gorgeous clothes. The vintage cars. The grand houses. I want it all! This modern version of ’The Great Gatsby’ is poetic and beautiful. The imagery is phenomenal and the 3-D experience grabs you and pulls you into the heart of the action.
The classic tale of Gatsby is told through the eyes of director, Baz Luhrmann (who brought us a more modern version of Romeo and Juliet). The movie is set in Long Island, NY in all its 1922 roaring glory. The parties are happening, the champagne is flowing, the clothes are sparkly, and the money is growing. Staying true to the 1920′s theme the costumes were lovely – the beaded flapper dresses, feathered headpieces, and three-piece suits….transports you into the beloved iconic fashion era of the 1920′s. The movie does get ff to a slow start but once Jay Gatsby (Leandro DiCaprio) appears on the screen. BAM! The pace picks up. The film has some great action scenes with stellar car races, jumping parties, and fast-paced conversations. One of my favorite scenes was the unbelievable and extremely lavish party at Gatsby’s mansion. I racked my brian trying to figure out how many hours all those actors and extras had to put in to dance like it was their last day on earth. It was EPIC! I just wanted to put on my dancing shoes and join in. The soundtrack for the film, which was produced by Jay-Z puts a modern twist on a great classic.
It continually blows my mind that Leonardo DiCaprio hasn’t won an Oscar yet. Every role he plays is, so complex and amazing. This role is no exception. DiCaprio brought a wide range of emotional depth to his role as Jay Gatsby. The struggle between attaining financial success and pursing the love of his life appears tortuous. Carey Mulligan is also brilliant in her role as Daisy (Gatsby love interest). There is no denying the on-screen chemistry between DiCaprio and Mulligan. They’re intimate exchanges are AH-mazing!
I really adored this version of the Great Gatsby. I left the theater wanting to read the book again and reacquaint myself with the classic story. Be forewarn this movie is long at 2 hrs 23 min. I anticipate the reviews for this film will be a bit controversial. The Director took some major risk with the story and the creative direction of the film. Movie-goers will either love it or hate it. I loved it and thought the movie was brilliant.I would see it again in a second. Its one smashing film!