Guest posting by Annabelle King:
When I heard all the furore about the film “The Artist” I have to confess that it didn’t really appeal. The idea of sitting through a black and white, SILENT movie for nearly two hours sounded rather dull to be honest. Like many mothers, I go out so rarely that when I do go to the movies I want an uplifting soundtrack, some well versed dialogue, maybe a few good gags and a little bit of sunshine and colour to cheer me up.
Well, having now seen this film I have to confess that I was totally misguided. Not only is there a magnificent soundtrack, even more uplifting due to the fact that it really really is, the only sound, you still do get the dialogue, marvellous, albeit visual gags and the sunshine and colour sparkling through from the sheer energy and exuberance of the acting.
After a small period of adjustment as you first sit in your seat and realise that there really are no words, you are swiftly taken off on the most entertaining journey back to the 1920’s when gentlemen wore tails, girls wore flappers and everyone smoked, danced, twinkled and smiled continuously. It tells the story of the declining fortunes of the dashing silent movie star George Valentin, at the arrival of talking pictures or ‘talkies’ as he determinedly refuses to embrace the new era of filmmaking thus leading to his own career demise.
Played by the delectable Jean Dujardin, a true modern day Chevalier, the hero is handsome, the heroine is absolutely breathtaking, refreshingly there is no obvious romance but it is implicit which makes it all the more romantic. There is comedy in spades particularly from the relationship between George and his faithful hound Uggie, the film’s true hero. Word is that people are petitioning for a new category to be introduced at the Oscar’s so that he can be nominated.
My friend and I were transfixed from start to finish, in fact I didn’t want the film to end and I want to go and see it all over again with my husband. And I’m the sort of girl who normally likes James Bond films…
Trust me, if you haven’t seen it – go. Tonight.
This posting was contributed by Annabelle King who lives in Shepherds Bush and after a ten year crazy career in advertising, gave it all up to be bossed about by her three little girls. She started her blog The Bush Babies in 2007 and writes about the highs and lows of parenthood and raising three little girls in London.
