The Artist...Emotion Screams in this Silent Film

The Artist

Starring: Jean Dujardin, Bérénice Bejo, John Goodman, James Cromwell, Penelope Ann Miller, and Uggie, the dog.

Directed by:  Michel Hazanavicius
Written by:  Michel Hazanavicius

Released: December 2011
Genre: Silent, with English subtitles, Drama, Romance and Comedy.
Synopsis:

A love story/drama showcasing silent film star George Valentin, whose career unravels as "talkie" motion pictures emerge. He refuses to let go of the silent film genre that gave him stardom; the only life he values until a unknown newcomer Peppy Miller, tries to present new options for him. 

Trailer

George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) is the silverscreen heartthrob of 1927 and married to a blonde high maintenance leading lady; Doris (Penelope Ann Miller). Their marriage is struggling, and although they relish in  the typical rich and famous lifestyle of movie stars, they are bored and unhappy with each other. George seems content at home,  not for the time with his wife, rather, it is his razor smart dog, (Uggie) who makes him smile, and is his constant companion. George is a master of his acting craft, no doubt, taking care to use his entire face with endless options of expression. There is a sense of accomplishment in his uncanny, consistent ability to convey to the audience his acting journey, whether exhibiting despair, connection, friendship, depression, or joy.

In a chance encounter at one of George's public appearances, a groupie spectator Peppy Miller (Bérénice Bejo) who was also waiting to audition as a movie dancer extra gets knocked into George's way. They meet face to face and sparks fly.  She is smitten with him, and gives him a peck on check, which makes headline papers  the next morning to the dismay of his wife. As his marriage disintegrates, so does his career, with time running out on the popularity of silent films.

Peppy Miller's career however,  takes off into the world of talkie films embracing all the technical advantages emerging to her advantage. In contrast, George's pride in clinging to his barely there career is frustrating to witness,  because he refuses to even consider working in films with sound dialogue. 

Peppy tries to help him understand, but his enthusiasm for the new film world, is held at bay, his finances dry up, and he stubbornly produces, directs and acts in a film himself. Her feelings for him are real, and she longs to be with him, displayed in a tender scene with her sneaking into George's dressing room and embracing his jacket. Her performance is precision-like, her glances heartwarming, and understanding. Peppy's dancing is exceptional and adds spunk to her already dynamic acting talent.

One of the many memorable actors in this film, is Uggie. He is loyal, funny, and smart, and in numerous scenes steadfastly scampering beside George.  He easily wins the hearts of the audience, and adds the man-dog best friend bond chemistry to the storyline, with ease and perfection. Uggie deservedly walked the red carpet at the Golden Globes,  in January 2012.  (Uggie apparently stole the show dressed in black tie steering lavish attention away from George Clooney, and Jean Dujardin, who were also at the Globes.)

Uggie has over 4,000 followers on his Twitter account, and can be reached @Uggie_TheArtist.

The audience for the film is pin drop quiet throughout The Artist. The accompanying background music is exceptional, which elevates the impact and flow of the plot.  The emotion, expressions, and humour are handily accomplished without the requirement of sound.  The chemistry between the actors is subtle, undeniable and delicately portrayed with superb camera capture, shadow, and light. 

The result is a tremendous work of art; a drama that demands your attention, and ends with the feel-good messages of hope, and love. The overall intensity is surprising and will likely not disappoint those who can appreciate the craft and history of film-making and an unusual love story. The Artist has already achieved 3 Golden Globes wins, (Best Comedy/Musical film, Best Actor, and best Musical Score)  and has earned 10 nominations for the February 26, 2012 Academy Awards including; Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actress among additional categories.