The Artist

February 2, 2012
Hannah Wills

Film: The Artist
Director: Michel Hazanavicius
Starring: Jean Dujardin
Runtime: 100 mins
*****

The highly anticipated The Artist has restored silence across cinemas worldwide, beguiling audiences of all generations with its nostalgic take on early Hollywood. There is no denying director Michel Hazanavicius’ ambition of re-mastering contemporary filmmaking into that of the past; correspondingly there is no denying his success in doing so. It is difficult to draw your eyes away from the enchanting smiles, glamorous cast, and altogether spellbinding reminder of what film has left behind.

The plot centres on Hollywood filmmaking, opening with a movie inside a movie. We are transported back to the 1920s, a time when films were screened in picture houses and audiences respected viewings as an event to don their finest attire. The star of the show, George Valentin (Jean Dujardin), delights his audience (both diegetic and non-diegetic) with charming facial expressions and an alarmingly dazzling set of nashers. The story follows the life and acting career of Valentin and his descent at the introduction of ‘talkies’. His stardom is overshadowed by new sweetheart Peppy Miller (Bérénice Bejo), who swiftly establishes herself in the Hollywood scene. The stunning actress takes charm to another level, alluringly flirting her way through the film and animating emotions with the most charismatic of expressions. It is no wonder these actors can pass on sound – it is a pleasure merely to look at them. In many respects the plot shares similarities with Citizen Kane – the tragic collapse of a man in a position of power who is subsequently oppressed by the developing field of his career. Yet, the irony lies in the undoubted link between the style of the film and the action within it. The actors’ ability to tell a story through facial expression and
sporadic intertitles emphasises the endless possibilities of film. Their silence intensifies the magic, on both a critical and romantic level.

In addition to the beautiful cast, The Artist also defines Hollywood glamour with striking costume and set. There are plenty of twists and turns within the narrative that embellish the classic style of the film. Firstly, Valentin’s dream sequence (which highlights his fear at the introduction of ‘talkies’) is one of two moments when the film gives way to diegetic sound. This highly amusing scene not only conducts humour in Valentin’s fear, but reminds us that we are still in the 21st century. In addition to this, modern technology subtly makes an impressive feature when CGI allows an army of miniature Valentin’s to harass him at one of his lowest points. The brave inclusion of modern-day stylistic devices detracts from an imposition to authenticate a 1920s silent movie. In other words, the film does not try to be something that it’s not.

I could not go throughout this review without mentioning the true talent of ‘Uggie’ the Jack Russell. A key character in the story, Valentin’s pet dog performs with true precision and adorable decorum. So the film even caters for animal lovers! My only slight criticism comes from the true romantic in me – I would have liked to have seen a classic soft-focus, passionate and predictable Hollywood kiss between Valentin and Peppy Miller. It is clear throughout the film that there is a romantic connection between the two characters, but this never actually reaches a pinnacle. However, this by no means spoilt the film for me (although I now may have spoilt the film for you). The lack of a kiss only really emphasises Hazanavicius’ focus on the form of film, by detracting away from any conclusive romance.

Although on first impressions The Artist may seem targeted towards a specific crowd, it’s unpretentious and fresh take on silent cinema welcomes a wide range of audiences to delight in the art of film for how it first begun. Engaging enough to entertain worldwide, authentic enough to intellectually stimulate, modern enough to creep into the awards nominations and above all delightful enough to leave a audience fresh-faced and smiling – The Artist is certainly one to watch.

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