The Great Gatsby

What is the movie about?

The Great Gatsby (2013) is a dramatic tragedy directed by Baz Luhrmann. Set in the 1920s, the story follows the wealthy yet mysterious Jay Gatsby, who is obsessed with Daisy Buchanan, a married woman. Through the eyes of Nick Carraway, Daisy’s cousin and Gatsby’s neighbor, a world of corruption, obsession, and shattered dreams is revealed. The film explores themes such as love, wealth, and the illusion of the American Dream.

TW: scenes of violence, sexual content, and references to corruption

Some interesting facts

The film is an adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel.

Baz Luhrmann successfully blends the 1920s atmosphere with a modern soundtrack featuring artists like Jay-Z, Lana Del Rey, and Florence and the Machine. As a result, this combination enhances the film’s timeless themes, such as the illusion of the American Dream, love and obsession, social class and inequality, nostalgia, and loneliness and identity.

Moreover, the costumes were designed by Catherine Martin, Luhrmann’s wife, in collaboration with the fashion house Prada. In addition, Daisy Buchanan’s jewelry was specially designed by Tiffany & Co.

Leonardo DiCaprio (Jay Gatsby) and Baz Luhrmann had previously worked together on Romeo & Juliet (1996), where DiCaprio played the role of Romeo. Surprisingly, one of the most iconic scenes, where Gatsby raises his glass and stares directly into the camera, was partially improvised by DiCaprio.

The film won two Oscars for ‘Best Production Design’ and ‘Best Costume Design,’ which recognizes its impressive visual style. Luhrmann was inspired by the techniques of silent films, including dramatic close-ups and expressive facial expressions.

The Great Gatsby has had several film adaptations. The first, a silent film from 1926 directed by Herbert Brenon, is mostly lost, with only a few stills and reviews remaining. In contrast, in 1949, Elliott Nugent directed a black-and-white version, considered more somber in tone. The 1974 version, directed by Jack Clayton, stays closest to the book, with a screenplay by Francis Ford Coppola. As a result, this version won an Oscar for ‘Best Costume Design’. Finally, a TV film was released in 2000, though it remains lesser-known.

In addition to film adaptations, there are also theater productions and opera versions of the story.

Why should you watch the movie?

I highly recommend the film for people aged 13 and over, due to trigger warnings for violent images, sexual content, and references to corrupt practices such as drug use and criminal activities.

What makes the film one of my personal favorites is the song Young & Beautiful by Lana Del Rey, which can be heard in various versions throughout the film. Additionally, I appreciate the film for its visual and unique style. The breathtaking sets, elegant costumes, and glamorous depiction of the 1920s make the film a visual spectacle.

The themes presented are timeless and relevant for every generation, making the film attractive to a wide audience. Beyond the glamour and visual style, the film offers a profound exploration of human nature. The intense emotions, from Gatsby’s romantic desires to the tragic outcome of his life’s dream, provide an emotional experience that makes you reflect on your own dreams and desires.

If you are a fan of American literature, this film offers a modern interpretation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel and is an opportunity to experience the rich history of the book in a cinematic context.

Memorable quotes from the film

Here are some quotes that beautifully highlight the themes of love, illusion, social class, and the longing for the past. Now it’s up to you to watch the film and experience the full journey:

• “Can’t repeat the past? Why of course you can!” (Jay Gatsby)
• “I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted and repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life.” (Nick Carraway)
• “I hope she’ll be a fool – that’s the best a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool.” (Daisy Buchanan)
• “Reserving judgments is a matter of infinite hope.” (Nick Carraway)
• “Gatsby turned out all right at the end; it is what preyed on Gatsby, what foul dust floated in the wake of his dreams that temporarily closed out my interest in the abortive sorrows and short-winded elations of men.” (Nick Carraway)
• “So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.” (Nick Carraway)