The Artist

A masterful homage to the days of silent, black and white films is just the right blend of old style with a modern feel. Crisp picture except when the intent is more nostalgic, and a wonderful score that pushes the story along like days of old. There are scenes that whimsically bring back the old Hollywood films of Cary Grant, Fred Astaire, or Clark Gable, but Jean Dujardin brings a fresh, but timeless look to the screen.

The intro immediately sets the mood, with opening credits straight out of 1930. A handsome man with the perfectly trimmed mustache, slicked down hair, and a three piece suit dances around the stage after audiences have just taken in his latest film, a wild success to the critics. He is the George Clooney of the silent film era, and he knows it. The film follows his demise as "talkies" become the norm, and his talents are no longer needed. A turn of events creates a Charlie Chaplin love story of sorts (without the physical comedy) and this screen legend tries to find his place in the new Hollywood.

Many of the scenes have brilliant choreography and cinematography. Simply beautiful. Pouring a glass of whiskey onto a mirror as the camera rotates 180 degrees, using a scene-stealing Jack Russell Terrier as the best casting of a dog this year, with tricks and patience on command. Dance routines that epitomize the roaring twenties, and a beautiful leading lady who with the flapper dress and bobbed haircuts and designer hats looks just the part (Berenice Bejo, who happens to have 2 children with the director).

Michael Hazanavicius is my favorite right now for the Best Director Oscar, plain and simple. His vision brings to life this world that is a brief, but incredible respite from our real time. This is what classic cinema is all about, and his homage is effective and well done. I don't have this winning best picture however, because the story isn't too strong and compelling, it's just a fun and fanciful journey.

I also see Oscar gold going to Dujardin (best male) and Bejo (supporting female, although she has as much screen time as Dujardin) who so convincingly play their parts, even silently. There is chemistry between the two that makes me smile, like Chaplin and one of his muses. The film is intended to be a comedic love story, but it is so much more than that. It is a clinic in film-making with the precision shots and movements. Retro fade-ins and outs. Much like Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino brought back the grindhouse look of the 70's, Hazanavicius brings the 20's out of The Artist.

I can see this film setting a new precedent in retro film making style. Forties, fifties, even eighties might be next on the horizon. Keep your eyes out for it. The Weinsteins know how to pick Academy Award quality films, and The Artist fits the bill. Best Director, Actor, Supporting Actress, and Score. Big night for this film. 8/10.