The Artist (2011)

Caution: This Might Contain Spoilers!

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In the early years of Hollywood silent films, George Valentin is a legend. George meets Peppy Miller, a young up and coming dancer/actress. With the introduction of talking films their careers go into very different directions. 

This film is directed by Michel Hazanavicius. This film is set in the time frame of 1927 to 1932 during the decline of the silent film era, and the introduction of the talkies. This film is unique among modern films because it's entirely in black and white and is (for the most part) silent. It is awkward since there appears to be a lot of conversation missed through the film. Only a handful of speech cards to highlight important moments. The music for this film is great. But this has created controversy, since one of the songs used was the love theme from the film Vertigo. This film was designed as an homage to the classic film style. Familiar segments can be spotted for movie buffs. The story is charmingly simple. Two actors meet at varied moments in their careers, they watch their careers go into separate directions, and all the while falling in love with one another. There is an awesome use of sound manipulation. The silence in the film is a tone for the character. The use of sound indicates the characters emotions. The acting was great for the silent film. It had to be more over the top, and more directed, to show emotions instead of telling emotions. Jean Dujardin played the role of George Valentin. He was great in his role of complete silence. He was able to show all his emotions through his physical actions. Berenice Bejo played the role of Peppy Miller. It was good seeing her as the love interest. James Cromwell played the role of Clifton. He was good in a small role. John Goodman played the role of Al Zimmer. He was the best comic relief in this film-even if it was only slight. Uggie as Jack the dog was adorable. 

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars! It is a unique perspective that harkens back to the silent film era. Its creative outlook makes it worth a watch.

Answer to last blog: Director Steven Soderbergh, Side Effects, also directed the film Contagion.

Que: What other film has actress Berenice Bejo starred in?

Moulin Rouge
Amelie
Mulholland Drive
A Knight's Tale