Bill I’s Review – 3 out of 5
I finally got around to seeing the non-talkie The Artist, which has been touted by many as one of the best of 2011. I cannot rank it as one of my ten favorites for the year, especially since my eyelids kept trying to close on me. I guess it’s the best that could have been done without any dialogue, and the leading characters were certainly charismatic and expressive, especially Uggie the wonder dog (best supporting actor candidate?). If this had conventional dialogue, it would be evident how banal the story line is. I loved the last 5 minutes however, which was cleverly done, but in retrospect I’d rather spend my entertainment time watching some of the episodes of Treme I have saved on my dvr at home. Bill C., please pipe in with your review, I believe you liked it more than did I.
Bill C’s Review – 4 out of 5
This film did make my top 10 list, although I understand (and expected) Bill I to enjoy it less than I did. I viewed this homage to a bygone era of Hollywood movie-making as fresh and unique. I enjoyed the nods to Douglass Fairbanks, Chaplin (see A Dog’s Life if you get the chance), Rodgers and Astaire, A Star is Born, Singing in the Rain, and a bunch I’m sure I missed.
The performances (dog included) were all top-notch (they are all great smilers except for the dog) and, like Bill I, I really enjoyed the ending. There were a lot of nice little moments in the film as well. I agree with Bill I that the plot was very basic, especially compared to many of today’s movies, but for me that was consistent with some of the movies it was paying homage to and added to its charm.
Bottom line: I enjoyed this a lot, but if you’re looking for a plot-driven movie, this might not be the movie for you.
Photo added by Bill I.
this comment was copied from the About This Blog page:
As Bill I’s mother I have to disagree wirh him re “The Artist” Maybe you have to be a Senior to really appreciate this movie, but I thought it was a masterpiece. With the entrance of sound we lost much of the magic and universality of film.
Promised Bill C I would submit comment regarding ‘The Artist’. Good news..I did not fall asleep. Actually enjoyed the film…brought memories of watching the Bowery Boys, Eastside Kids, etc on Saturdays on TV in black and white. Looking forward to the Austin Film Festival in 2013 !!
Glad you enjoyed it! Did Colleen like it also? SXSW film festival is next week