"Here's to the Fools who Dream": Hollywood's Illusion of the American Dream in La La Land

Abstract

The ideal of the American Dream has defined the lives of many people not only within the U.S., but also from all around the world, making it an international phenomenon. However, its significance has varied throughout time, adapting to the new circumstances of the people pursuing it and the opportunities coming their way. In such context, La La Land, the outstanding audiovisual 2016 production, deals with the newest conception of the Dream –the “Dream of the Coast”– by offering a glimpse at the true Hollywood lights and shadows through a nostalgic and flawed portrayal of the Dream and the real consequences of pursuing it.