The Great Gatsby

2013

Directed By: Baz Luhrmann

Screenplay By: Baz Luhrmann; Craig Pearce

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio; Tobey Maguire; Carey Mulligan; Joel Edgerton; Isla Fisher; Jason Clarke; Elizabeth Debicki; Jack Thompson; Amitabh Bachchan

Based On: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

The Great Gatsby is a 2013 Australian-American epic romantic drama film based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 1925 novel of the same name. The film was co-written and directed by Baz Luhrmann and stars Leonardo DiCaprio as the eponymous Jay Gatsby with Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, and Elizabeth Debicki in supporting roles. Production began in 2011 in Australia with $105 million budget. The film follows the life and times of millionaire Jay Gatsby and his neighbor Nick, who recounts his encounter with Gatsby at the height of the Roaring Twenties.

The film polarized critics, receiving both praise and criticism for its acting performances, soundtrack, visual style, and directing. Audiences responded much more positively, and F. Scott Fitzgerald’s granddaughter praised the film, stating “Scott would have been proud.” As of 2016 it is Baz Luhrmann’s highest-grossing film having earned over $350 million worldwide. At the 86th Academy Awards, the film won in both of its nominated categories: Best Production Design and Best Costume Design.

This production is truly a beautiful rendition of the novel, accurately bringing its plot, characters, and essence to life visually and artistically through design and performance.