When we caught La La Land in Toronto, it became clear right away it was something special. Seven Golden Globe wins – and a handful of BAFTA noms later – and it seems we aren’t the only ones who feel this way, so needless to say it was a pleasure to sit down with the man at the helm, director Damien Chazelle.

La La Land - Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone

Chazelle, who burst onto the scene with the remarkable drama Whiplash, speaks to us about his decision to get involved in the musical genre, while also speaking about the forthcoming Academy Awards and what it means to be involved in the conversation. He also speaks about his next project; a Neil Armstrong biopic, again starring Ryan Gosling.

Related: Premiere Interviews from the London Film Festival

Related: Premiere Interviews from the Toronto Film Festival

“I’m working with Ryan on a movie about Neil Armstrong and the Moon landing which hopefully will be the next thing I’ll make. It goes back to the idea of personal connection, less literally reflective of my own experiences – I’ve never been to the Moon. But there too I want to try and find that kind of connection. I do think of it as a story about emotions I’ve felt, even if it’s not literal experiences.”

Related: Watch the La La Land UK Movie Trailer

Watch the full interview below and be sure to click this way for all our coverage of the magical movie.

La La Land is released in UK cinemas this Friday January 13th. 

La La Land Synopsis

The story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a dedicated jazz musician, struggling to make ends meet while pursuing their dreams in a city known for destroying hopes and breaking hearts. With modern day Los Angeles as the backdrop, this musical about everyday life explores what is more important: a once-in-a-lifetime love or the spotlight.