The Artist

Wait, don’t speak…oh that’s right, nobody does in this film…it’s a silent movie. Filmed in glorious black and white and spanning from 1927 through the Wall Street Crash and the Great Depression, we follow the careers of George Valentin (a silent screen star somewhat like Douglas Fairbanks who has a Jack Russell Terrier –a pint sized version of Lassie) and Peppy Miller, whose star is rising and all because she bumped into George. It’s a little like “A Star Is Born” and does contain some sound during key scenes, but for the most part, you need to pay attention because the characters are talking with their expressions and the dialogue is via screen shots. The background music is eclectic and adds to the cinematic ebbs and flows of the action. The two leads, Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo, are probably more well known in France, however, you’ll recognize some key players, John Goodman, Penelope Ann Miller, James Cromwell, and Missi Pyle (who gives a performance that reeks of Singing In The Rain’s Lena Lamont (Jean Hagen). If you could hear her speak, you’d probably hear the line…”and I can’t stan’em”. The film is deserving of the many kudos it’s been receiving and will walk away with several more well deserved awards. Sets, costumes, vehicles, everything is period perfect and this writer recommends this gem. Rating: 4 stars and a really smart, cute dog.