The "City of Stars" duet and "Mia & Sebastian's Theme" (also known as "Piano") are two iconic musical compositions from the 2016 musical film "La La Land," directed by Damien Chazelle. The film features a captivating blend of music, romance, and vibrant visuals, and these musical pieces have become emblematic of the movie's charm. Here are some interesting facts about these compositions:
"City of Stars" Duet:
Oscar-Winning Song: "City of Stars" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song at the 89th Academy Awards. It was written by composer Justin Hurwitz, with lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.
Recurring Motif: The melody of "City of Stars" serves as a recurring musical motif throughout the film, representing the dreams, aspirations, and the bittersweet love story between the characters Mia and Sebastian.
Two Versions: The song is performed twice in the film: first by Ryan Gosling's character Sebastian and later by Emma Stone's character Mia. Each version has a different mood and context, reflecting the characters' perspectives.
Piano and Guitar: In the film, the song is performed both on the piano and the guitar. The piano version is more reflective and melancholic, while the guitar version is more upbeat and romantic.
Symbolism: "City of Stars" captures the essence of Hollywood and the idea of chasing one's dreams in the city of Los Angeles. The lyrics reflect the characters' desires for success and the allure of the entertainment industry.
"Mia & Sebastian's Theme" (Piano):
Leitmotif for Romance: "Mia & Sebastian's Theme" is a delicate and evocative piano composition that serves as a leitmotif throughout the film. It represents the romantic relationship between Mia and Sebastian.
Musical Emotion: The piece is known for its emotional depth and ability to convey the evolving emotions of the characters without relying on lyrics. The variations in the melody mirror the ups and downs of the characters' journey.
Finger-Twisting Melody: The piano piece is known for its intricate and challenging melody, which captures the nuances of both joy and heartbreak. The performance of this piece by Ryan Gosling's character showcases his dedication to his art.
Musical Collaboration: Composer Justin Hurwitz collaborated closely with pianist and composer Randy Kerber, who served as Ryan Gosling's hand double for the piano scenes. This ensured that the piano playing looked authentic on screen.
Multiple Interpretations: "Mia & Sebastian's Theme" has garnered attention from musicians and pianists worldwide, leading to various interpretations and covers, both online and in live performances.
Both "City of Stars" and "Mia & Sebastian's Theme" contribute significantly to the emotional impact of "La La Land," and they have become beloved pieces of music on their own, separate from the film. Their memorable melodies and poignant lyrics continue to resonate with audiences around the world.