Though the music and big dance set pieces might grab the audience’s attention, the best La La Land quotes show the emotional power of the movie. The romance between Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) is full of heart and sadness, all conveyed in some of the movie’s most memorable lines. The characters are flawed, which makes them relatable. While it has the glitz and glamor of an old-school Hollywood throwback, this movie is also very modern with its dialogue.
The movie tells a unique love story about the right couple at the wrong time in their lives. There are also strong themes about the right path to take in life, the love of art, and the struggle of having a dream. All of these aspects are reflected in some of the movie’s best lines. The greatest La La Land quotes pull on the heartstrings of its audience with thoughtful lines, many of which help to make this one of the best movie musicals of all time.
25 “It’s Pretty Strange That We Keep Running Into Each Other.”
Mia (Emma Stone)
La La Land is very much a movie about fate and the plan that the world has for people. For much of the early part of the film, it seems like it is destiny that Sebastian and Mia are meant to be together, even though their first meetings are somewhat rocky. After their confrontational and brief run-ins in the past, the pair happen to meet once again at a party, which leads to them walking to their cars together at the end of the night.
Mia remarks how unusual it is that they keep seeing each other with Sebastian suggesting it could mean something which Mia quickly dismisses. It is a funny little moment that shows their brief enemies-become-lovers relationship trajectory. However, it is also a moment that means more by the end of the movie. Even though they were not meant to be together, perhaps it was destiny that these two kept meeting because they would not have found their respective successes without each other.
24 “Is That Going To Happen Every Time?”
Tracy (Callie Hernandez)
As passionate and loving as their relationship eventually becomes, it is not the most romantic first meeting between Mia and Sebastian. Taking place in the aftermath of the wonderful opening song on the freeway, the audience is introduced to Mia rehearsing for an audition in her car. Sebastian is in his car behind her and loudly blares his horn at her when he gets frustrated by her driving. However, Sebastian eventually turns that into a surprisingly romantic moment.
When Sebastian comes to pick her up for a date, he blares his horn noisily in the street.
After meeting again and eventually forming a connection, Mia and Sebastian start a relationship. When Sebastian comes to pick her up for a date, he blares his horn noisily in the street. While Mia’s roommate seems annoyed by the greeting and asks if he’s good to do that every time, Mia smiles happily saying “I think so.” It is a sweet little moment of an inside joke between the two that cements their charming romance early on.
23 “Why Do You Say “Romantic” Like It’s A Dirty Word?”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
When the audience is introduced to Sebastian, he is at a low point, still reeling from the loss of his former club. When his sister, Laura, visits to talk some sense into him and pull him out of his funk, he proves that he is a stubborn man who has a distinct view of the world that he is not willing to compromise for the sake of making things easier on him. While this can be frustrating, Sebastian’s defense of his “romantic” outlook on things is a sign of how he will achieve his goals.
Sebastian’s immaturity could very well be frustrating to Laura, pointing out that he is even trying to put a “romantic” spin on him getting scammed. However, Sebastian’s romantic outlook is just a sign of his passion for something that most people would dismiss as unimportant. He sees nothing to be ashamed of and no reason to change how he sees the world just because they don’t see the romance in it either.
22 “See You In The Movies.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
The opening musical number, “Another Day of Sun,” foreshadows La La Land’s bittersweet ending, but there’s another subtle nod early on that hints at where the characters will eventually end up. After their first two brief and unfriendly encounters, Sebastian (Seb) and Mia cross paths once more at a Hollywood party. Although there’s an undeniable spark between them, a playful hostility underscores their interaction. When Seb learns that Mia is an actress, he feigns indifference and bids her farewell with a teasing yet poignant line: “See you in the movies.”
In hindsight, this line resonates with a deep emotional undercurrent. It encapsulates Seb’s unwavering belief in Mia’s talent and dreams, a belief strong enough that he knows she’ll eventually succeed. Yet, it also hints at the distance that will eventually come between them, suggesting that he’ll be cheering her on from afar. This quote not only reflects Seb’s support for Mia’s dreams but also foreshadows the separation between them, making it a bittersweet moment that beautifully captures the emotional complexity of their relationship.
21 “Welcome To Seb’s.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
La La Land is a movie about heartbreak while also suggesting a bittersweet ending for the Mia and Seb. After years apart, Sebastian and Mialock eyes again, but this time, Mia is in the audience at Seb’s jazz club with her husband. As Seb takes the stage and addresses the crowd, his gaze lingers on Mia. He delivers the emotional line, “Welcome to Seb’s.” Though directed at the entire audience, this line carries a special significance for Mia. It is Seb’s way of acknowledging how crucial she was in helping him realize his dream.
Mia’s unwavering belief in Seb, even when his confidence faltered, played an instrumental role in the creation of his club. The line encapsulates both gratitude and heartbreak, reflecting their intertwined journeys and the bittersweet reality that sometimes love doesn’t lead to a shared future. In that moment, Seb recognizes the impact Mia had on his life, acknowledging their unbreakable connection while also accepting that their paths have diverged. It’s a line that embodies the emotional complexity of their relationship, capturing the joy of dreams fulfilled and the sorrow of lost love.
20 “This Is Home.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
La La Land is a love letter to Los Angeles and the dreamers striving to make it their home. The film captures the bravery and strength required to succeed in a city that often seems indifferent to those pursuing their ambitions. This is poignantly reflected in Sebastian’s line, “This is home,” which he says to Mia after her one-woman show ends in disappointment. Devastated by her perceived failure and the relentless rejection she has faced, Mia decides to leave Los Angeles and return to her family in Nevada.
Seb’s heartfelt plea, “This is home,” reminds Mia that Los Angeles is where her dreams can still come true if she doesn’t give up. But the line also reflects Seb’s personal connection to her, conveying unwavering belief in Mia’s talent and potential, urging her to see herself as he sees her—a gifted actress. However, it’s also a bittersweet acknowledgment of the crumbling home they once shared, as their relationship is already strained. “This is home” becomes an emblem of the struggle, resilience, and hope that define the journey of every dreamer in Los Angeles.
19 “City Of Stars. Are You Shining Just For Me?”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
In La La Land, Los Angeles is portrayed as a place where dreams can both thrive and shatter, embodying the duality of hope and heartbreak. This dichotomy is captured beautifully through Sebastian’s eyes. Though often cynical, Seb remains relentless in his pursuit of his dreams, viewing the city as a magical place, especially once Mia enters his life. After arranging a date with Mia, Seb sings the hauntingly beautiful song “City of Stars,” with the evocative line: “City of Stars. Are you shining just for me?“
The song encapsulates the intoxicating feeling of new love, that sensation of everything in the world aligning perfectly. Seb’s voice, filled with yearning and hope, communicates the blend of excitement and uncertainty that accompanies falling in love. The lyrics underscore his optimism and belief that Los Angeles is a place where dreams can come true, not just for him but for them as a couple. It’s a moment that embodies the magical allure of new romance while hinting at the vulnerability and uncertainty of pursuing one’s dreams in a city as unpredictable as Los Angeles.
18 “They Worship Everything And Value Nothing.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
Despite his ability to see the magic in Los Angeles, Sebastian voices his frustrations with the city’s superficial appreciation of art. While Mia struggles with rejection in her search for success, Seb becomes increasingly bitter toward a world that fails to recognize the beauty of jazz. As he laments a jazz club being converted into a samba-tapas restaurant, he delivers the cutting observation: “They worship everything and value nothing.” This line encapsulates Seb’s disdain for a culture that prioritizes trends over substance.
For Seb, Los Angeles is a place where people showcase culture without truly understanding or embracing it. It’s a city that claims to celebrate artistic passion but often fails to support or even recognize genuine talent and dedication. La La Land celebrates those with a deep passion for their art, even when the world appears indifferent. Seb’s words highlight the struggle of maintaining artistic integrity in an environment driven by commercial interests. The line embodies Seb’s unwavering commitment to jazz, revealing his frustration with a society that often values appearances over authenticity.
17 “Somewhere, There’s A Place Where I Find Who I’m Gonna Be. Somewhere, That’s Just Waiting To Be Found.”
Mia (Emma Stone)
Both Mia and Sebastian have clear dreams of transforming their passions into successful careers. However, as determined as they are to achieve their goals, both harbor doubts as breaking into the industry takes longer than they’d hoped. This is particularly evident in Mia’s struggles as an actress, which the film portrays with striking insight. In the song “Someone in the Crowd,” Mia sings, “Somewhere, there’s a place where I find who I’m gonna be. Somewhere, that’s just waiting to be found.” This captures her yearning to find her place in the acting world and make her mark in Los Angeles.
The quote speaks to those with strong desires who understand that while passion and determination are crucial, a little luck is also necessary to succeed. Mia’s words embody the hopeful spirit of all dreamers striving to navigate the unpredictable path toward their aspirations, offering a poignant reflection on the balance between ambition and uncertainty that defines the journey of chasing one’s dreams.
16 “A Bit Of Madness Is Key To Give Us New Colors To See. Who Knows Where It Will Lead Us?”
Mia (Emma Stone)
In La La Land, Mia’s audition song, “The Fools Who Dream,” is a moment where she bares her heart and soul to the audience. She begins with the poignant lyric: “A bit of madness is key to give us new colors to see. Who knows where it will lead us?” This line embodies Mia’s adventurous spirit and her willingness to embrace uncertainty. Unafraid to try new things, she looks forward to the unknown with excitement and optimism, striking a chord with viewers.
While La La Land’s ending delivers a bittersweet punch, stopping the film here would have left audiences with Mia’s hopeful message about embracing the unpredictability of the future. The lyric encourages audiences to welcome life’s twists and turns with open hearts and minds. It’s a stirring reminder that a little madness can lead to new possibilities, coloring audiences lives with the richness of dreams fulfilled and paths undiscovered.
15 “I Don’t Know What You Came To Do, But I Wanna Do It With You.”
Keith (John Legend)
In La La Land, Sebastian reluctantly joins Keith’s (John Legend) band, and the film showcases one of their live performances with Legend as the lead singer and guitarist. The lyric “I don’t know what you came to do, but I wanna do it with you” is from the song “Start a Fire,” which, despite being a synthesized sound that Sebastian disdains, has resonated with many fans.
This lyric conveys a beautiful and emotional moment between two people who share an immediate connection. While the song is intended to represent a departure from Sebastian’s purist jazz ideals, its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics capture the spirit of embracing new relationships and possibilities. It’s a reminder that sometimes, stepping out of one’s comfort zone can lead to unexpected and meaningful connections, even if the path isn’t what was originally envisioned.
14 “People Love What Other People Are Passionate About.”
Mia (Emma Stone)
In La La Land, Sebastian and Mia are unwavering in their passions. Seb dreams of opening a jazz club, while Mia aspires to become an actress. However, Seb doubts whether enough people are interested in jazz to make his dream viable. Mia reassures him with the insightful line, “People love what other people are passionate about.” This quote embodies the film’s message about pursuing one’s dreams with authenticity and conviction.
Mia believes that Seb’s jazz club will thrive because people are naturally drawn to genuine passion. The line also reflects the way they inspire each other to keep pushing forward, even when faced with uncertainty. It’s a testament to the power of sharing one’s love for something wholeheartedly, knowing that passion has the ability to resonate with and captivate others. Ultimately, the quote speaks to the mutual support Seb and Mia provide each other on their journeys to transform their passions into reality.
13 “I Do Like Jazz Now Because Of You.”
Mia (Emma Stone)
Mia’s point about people finding a passion for things that others are passionate about is cemented by her feelings toward jazz. Early on, as she begins to strike up a relationship with Sebastian, she admits to him that she doesn’t like jazz and he takes it upon himself to show her what is so great about it. Through Mia, it is clear to see Sebastian’s passion for an art form that might not have a lot of mainstream interest.
When Sebastian finds success in the band later on, Mia questions if he is giving up on his dream of owning a jazz club. Sebastian tries to justify leaving behind his dream by suggesting that people don’t like jazz, not even Mia. However, she insists she discovered her love of jazz through Sebastian, showing him that he has the ability to convince people there is beauty and brilliance in this art.
12 “The House In Front Of The Library.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
Even the most charming movie couples often have their struggles and moments when the relationship hits a bad note. Mia and Sebastian are no different as Mia decides to leave town and return to her parent’s home when her play fails and Sebastian doesn’t even show up to see it. After stewing on his poor decision, he seeks out Mia to convince her to attend the audition that could change her life.
As Sebastian tries to convince her to come back with him, Mia, still reluctant, wonders how he found her. He simply remarks that it is the house in front of the library, remembering something she told him back during their first date. Though Sebastian made a terrible mistake, this is a subtle moment that shows how much he cares about her, remembering this small detail about her and acting as if it is silly of her to even ask.
11 “How Are You Gonna Be A Revolutionary If You’re Such A Traditionalist?”
Keith (John Legend)
Keith and Sebastian clash over their differing musical philosophies in La La Land. Keith embraces a modern approach, unafraid to experiment, while Sebastian clings to traditional jazz roots. During one of their heated exchanges, Keith asks Seb, “How are you gonna be a revolutionary if you’re such a traditionalist?” Although the audience is meant to root for Sebastian, Keith’s question raises a valid point.
Seb’s snobbish, purist view of music often limits his potential and prevents him from evolving. Keith challenges Seb to think beyond his rigid ideals, suggesting that true innovation requires stepping out of one’s comfort zone. The quote not only underscores their creative differences but also serves as a critique of Sebastian’s stubborn adherence to tradition. Ultimately, it pushes Seb to reconsider his approach and highlights the tension between preserving authenticity and embracing change in the pursuit of success.
10 “Maybe I’m Not Good Enough!”
Mia (Emma Stone)
In La La Land, Emma Stone delivers a powerful and vulnerable performance as Mia, an aspiring actress grappling with rejection and self-doubt. Her portrayal earned her one of the film’s many Oscar wins, yet it’s ironic to see her embodying a character who is unsure of herself. This is poignantly captured in the line, “Maybe I’m not good enough!” where Mia questions her ability to succeed in acting.
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This quote perfectly encapsulates Mia’s vulnerability and the emotional toll of relentless knockbacks in the industry. Despite her passion and determination, the uncertainty and rejection lead her to a breaking point. Hearing her voice this self-doubt out loud is heartbreaking, making it a relatable and emotional moment for anyone who has questioned their worth. La La Land doesn’t shy away from depicting the imperfect reality of following one’s dreams, and Mia’s words resonate deeply with those who’ve felt the sting of rejection while striving for their goals.
9 “‘Cause I Think It Hurts A Little Bit Too Much.”
Mia (Emma Stone)
In La La Land, Mia battles self-doubt and rejection in her pursuit of an acting career, leading to the poignant line: “‘Cause I think it hurts a little bit too much.” In this deeply emotional moment, Mia is ready to throw in the towel, worn down by the years of heartache from failed auditions and unsuccessful shows. She makes it painfully clear that the cumulative disappointment has taken its toll, leaving her feeling like she’s had enough.
Despite Sebastian’s unwavering encouragement to push forward, this moment remains a raw and emotional portrayal of vulnerability and exhaustion. Mia’s words resonate with anyone who has faced repeated setbacks while chasing their dreams, encapsulating the weight of disappointment and the courage it takes to persevere. Ultimately, Sebastian’s support helps Mia find the strength to keep going, but her initial moment of despair serves as a powerful reminder of the emotional journey dreamers often endure.
8 “It’s Conflict And It’s Compromise, And It’s Just… It’s New Every Time. It’s Brand New Every Night.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
Sebastian delivers an emotional yet passionate speech about jazz in La La Land, saying, “It’s conflict and it’s compromise, and it’s just… it’s new every time. It’s brand new every night.” His love for jazz bursts out of him with palpable joy and energy as he explains its magic to Mia, who initially doesn’t share his enthusiasm. The scene is a moment of pure delight, highlighting the wonderful chemistry between Stone and Gosling while revealing Sebastian’s deep devotion to his craft.
His excitement is so genuine that it’s hard not to be captivated by his passion, even if jazz isn’t one’s preferred genre. This moment allows the audience to see what makes Seb tick and why he remains unwavering in his commitment to jazz, despite the lack of enthusiasm from those around him. It’s a scene that captures Seb’s infectious love for the genre, providing insight into his character and emphasizing the emotional highs that come from following one’s passion.
7 “I’m Letting Life Hit Me Until It Gets Tired.”
Sebastian (Ryan Gosling)
In La La Land, Sebastian may ultimately fulfill his dream of owning a jazz bar, but at the start, he struggles from gig to gig, trying to earn as much money as possible. In a conversation with his sister, he tries to reassure himself, saying, “I’m letting life hit me until it gets tired.” This quote captures Seb’s attempt to maintain a positive outlook despite his challenges.
Though he projects confidence, the line reflects his struggles and uncertainty during this difficult period. It’s a moment of vulnerability that resonates with many who face obstacles while pursuing their dreams. Seb’s words convey his resilience and determination, embodying the emotional crossroads in his life and highlighting the perseverance required to keep moving forward even when the road is rough. Ultimately, this quote perfectly sums up the emotional point in his life and serves as a reminder to persist in the face of adversity.
6 “Yeah, I See The Decorations. Good Luck In The New Year.”
Bill (J.K. Simmons)
J.K. Simmons joins Damien Chazelle’s La La Land following their Whiplash collaboration, playing a small but impactful role as Bill, Sebastian’s boss at a restaurant. Bill isn’t shy about delivering harsh news, and when Seb insists on playing music that’s too flashy rather than sticking to the simple Christmas songs requested, Bill curtly fires him, saying, “Yeah, I see the decorations. Good luck in the new year.“
Simmons excels in these authoritative roles, and his blunt delivery creates a particularly emotional and harsh moment as Seb tries to protest, reminding Bill that it’s Christmas. The scene highlights Sebastian’s struggles and the indifference of a world that often doesn’t care about artistic expression. Despite the brevity of his role, Simmons leaves a lasting impression, delivering a memorable moment that underscores the challenges of pursuing one’s passion in an unforgiving industry.
