Who's behind the notes? Discover Justin Hurwitz: The Oscar-Winning Composer Behind La La Land
Justin Hurwitz is an American composer and songwriter best known for his work on the musical film "La La Land." Here are some interesting facts about him and his contribution to the film:
Collaboration with Damien Chazelle: Justin Hurwitz has a close working relationship with director Damien Chazelle. They first collaborated on the film "Guy and Madeline on a Park Bench" before teaming up again for the critically acclaimed "Whiplash" and later "La La Land."
Academic Background: Hurwitz and Chazelle met while they were both students at Harvard University. They shared a passion for music and film, which laid the foundation for their successful collaborations.
Academy Award Wins: Hurwitz received widespread acclaim for his work on "La La Land," earning two Academy Awards in 2017. He won the Oscar for Best Original Score and also received the award for Best Original Song for "City of Stars."
Musical Style: Hurwitz's musical style for "La La Land" is characterized by its nostalgic homage to classic Hollywood musicals. The score features a blend of jazz, classical, and contemporary elements, creating a distinctive and memorable sound.
Piano Playing: In addition to composing, Hurwitz is a skilled pianist. He played the piano on many of the film's recordings, adding a personal touch to the musical arrangements.
Record-Breaking Achievement: The soundtrack for "La La Land" achieved significant success. It topped the charts in multiple countries and became the first film soundtrack to reach number one on the US Billboard 200 since 2009. This was a notable achievement for a musical film.
Emotional Impact: The music in "La La Land" played a crucial role in conveying the emotional depth of the story. Hurwitz's compositions, combined with the performances of the cast, contributed to the film's powerful and resonant impact.
Justin Hurwitz's work on "La La Land" not only garnered critical acclaim but also played a pivotal role in the film's success and its reinvigoration of the musical genre in contemporary cinema.