Name: Lat, Rachel Mae Date: 11/14/23

Section: 11 STEM Allied D

The Great Gatsby

“The Great Gatsby” is a novel written by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1925. It is considered

one of the greatest American novels of the 20 th century and a classic of American
literature. The novel has been adapted into several film versions over the years, and
the most notable adaptation is the 2013 film directed by Baz Luhrmann. This version
stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby, Tobey Maguire as Nick Carraway, and Carey
Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan. The film received mixed reviews but was praised for its
stunning visuals and elaborate production design, capturing the extravagant and
decadent atmosphere of the 1920s.

The main character, Nick Carraway, moves to New York and becomes Gatsby’s
neighbor. Through Nick’s perspective, we witness the opulent and hedonistic lifestyle
of the wealthy elite during the Jazz Age. Gatsby is deeply infatuated with Daisy
Buchanan, a married woman he had a romantic relationship with in the past. He
throws these lavish parties in the hope that Daisy will attend one day. As the story
unfolds, we learn about Gatsby’s past and his relentless pursuit of wealth and success
to win Daisy’s love. Nick becomes a confidant to Gatsby and helps him reconnect
with Daisy. However, their reunion is complicated by the presence of Daisy’s
husband, Tom Buchanan, and the social expectations of the time.

In this movie, we can analyze its visual aesthetics, narrative structure, and cinematic
techniques. Visually, the film is a feast for the eyes. Director Baz Luhrmann's use of
vibrant colors, elaborate costumes, and opulent production design effectively captures
the extravagant and decadent atmosphere of the 1920s. The lavish parties and
grandiose settings create a visually stunning and immersive experience for the
audience. In terms of narrative structure, the film adheres closely to the source
material, faithfully depicting the key events and characters from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s
novel, the story unfolds through the eyes of Nick Carraway, who serves as both the
narrator and a participant in the events. This narrative choice allows for a deeper
exploration of the motivation and emotions of the characters. While in cinematic
techniques, such as the use of montage, quick cuts, and dynamic camera movements,
contribute to the film’s energetic and fast-paced nature. The editing style reflects the
frenetic energy of the Jazz Age and adds to the overall sense of spectacle.
Additionally, the modern soundtrack, blending contemporary music with jazz
influences, creates a unique juxtaposition of past and present, enhancing the film’s
thematic resonance.

As a final observation, the story explores themes of love, wealth, social class, and the
American dream. It delves into the emptiness and moral decay that can be found
beneath the surface of the glamorous and materialistic lifestyle of the 1920s.
Ultimately, “The Great Gatsby” is a tragic tale of unfulfilled dreams and
disillusionment of the American dream. This movie also successfully employ formal
elements to create a visually stunning and immersive experience.