As I entered the theater last Monday, I didn't have an inking of what to expect. The Artist, I knew had won five Oscars. I also knew that it was a black and white silent film, but what I didn't know was that I'd be completely mesmerized for a hundred minutes barring the ten minute interval in-between. After the first ten minutes of the movie, I knew I was watching something special. The fact that it has won 5 Oscars should rouse enough curiosity in people to make them watch this movie at a theater. But for the odd sceptic, who might dismiss this movie thinking it's black and white and silent, you will be missing out on a delightful experience.
The storyline is more or less cliched in it's essence. It's about the downward spiral of an actor, George Valentin, who is simply adored by audiences across the world. Along comes Peppy Miller, who is the next big star in Hollywood. George and Peppy work together on a film as George not only takes her under his wing, but also realizes that an undeniable spark develops between them. Over the course of the next few years, silent movies fade into obscurity as "talkies" burst onto the scene. Peppy is the new fan favourite and George finds himself struggling for not only work, but also a purpose to live.
Everything about this film is remarkable. The acting is top-notch and the film is visually appealing despite being black and white. The attention to detail in each and every scene is outstanding. There are a few scenes from the movie that are unforgettable. They will remain etched in my memory for as long as I can remember the movie. There's a scene where George is sitting at a mirror table drinking whiskey. You see nothing but George, his reflection, and the alcohol. He pours the contents of the glass on the tabletop as the look of disgust on his brow intensifies. This scene is stunning and words wont do justice to how you feel when you watch it. The brilliant soundtrack in the film takes you back to the early 1920s. The chemistry between all the actors is sizzling, the comedy is absolutely hilarious, the storyline is gripping and you feel emotionally connected with the characters and the story.
I entered the theater with a hint of cynicism. I haven't always liked all award winning movies but the artist most certainly isn't one of them. Now, I would brave the sun, rain, hail, snow and tortuous queues to watch the movie once more. Kudos to Michel Hazanavicius for this exceptional movie. I will be on the look-out for his next movie. To the entire cast, producers and everyone else involved, BRAVO! The Artist obviously is unique and unconventional in the age we live in and it unquestionably is entertainment galore.
P.S. The dog in the movie deserves a special mention. To me, personally, the dog stole the show. Shouldn't there be a category for the Best Animal Actor Award?
0 comments:
Post a Comment