We’re talking about Damien Chazelle, a filmmaker who has quickly become a household name in cinema. A Harvard graduate, Chazelle stunned the industry by becoming the youngest director to win an Oscar at just 31 years old, a testament to his remarkable talent and vision. But his achievements didn’t stop there; each of his films has left an indelible mark on modern storytelling. So, what films has this wunderkind created, and how did they shape his legacy?
1. Whiplash (2013)
This film tells the story of a young, ambitious drummer and his conductor, who is obsessed with perfection to a near-maniacal degree. More than just a typical music drama, Whiplash is an intense, nail-biting thriller about the price of greatness.
Based on Chazelle’s own experiences, the movie was shot in just three weeks. Whiplash went on to win three Oscars, cementing Chazelle’s fame at the age of 28.
2. La La Land (2016)
This vibrant, quintessential musical of the decade stars Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling as a young actress and a jazz musician chasing their Hollywood dreams. Together and apart, they must face the inevitable choice: fame or love.
The film received a record-tying 14 Oscar nominations and won six, making it a modern classic and solidifying Chazelle’s place as a visionary filmmaker.
3. First Man (2018)
A slightly subdued biographical drama, First Man stars Ryan Gosling as Neil Armstrong, chronicling his journey to becoming the first man on the moon. While not as universally praised as his earlier works, it’s a thoughtful exploration of one of humanity’s greatest achievements.
4. Babylon (2022)
This star-studded epic featuring Brad Pitt and Margot Robbie marked a turning point for Chazelle. A highly ambitious and expensive film, Babylon aimed to capture the essence of Hollywood itself. Unfortunately, it flopped at the box office and received mixed reviews.
Though flawed, Babylon still showcases Chazelle’s immense talent. The film features three stunningly executed scenes, but much of it feels overblown, chaotic, and leaves a bitter aftertaste. Perhaps this was Chazelle’s way of answering the question: What is Hollywood?
