The Great Gatsby (8/10)

In one of Tobey Maguire's many beautiful monologues, he described the extravagant parties thrown by Gatsby a "kaleidoscopic carnival". Those two words summed up perfectly this another one of Baz Luhrmann's visually stunning work.

So stunning that I wished I had caught it in 3D. If I were to compare this to another recent movie that focused on visuals, which was Spring Breakers, this was probably how it's meant to be when done properly.

Once again, Luhrmann offered us a fantastical orgy of visual effects, songs, dance and music. Everything blended in perfectly. The running time was close to two and a half hours but I sad through with only minor complaints as pacing was done quite well.

Leonardo DiCaprio once again made me enjoy his performance to the fullest. The very first frame he came on was perfection with a smile that could move hearts. Luhrmann took his time to slowly reveal who Gatsby really was and that revelation was sweet and timely.

Carey Mulligan also stepped up to DiCaprio's calibre. Even her smallest and most subtle movement was significant enough to elevate a scene. The rest of the casts were also great to watch.

But the best part was still the subject of the story. To learn who Gatsby was and to discover and then follow his emotional struggles. Beautiful story beautifully told.