The Artist
Cast: Jean Dujardin, Berenice Bejo, James Cromwell, John Goodman, Penelope Ann Miller, Missi Pyle, Uggie the Dog
Summary: A silent film actor struggles in a world where “talkies” are becoming more popular, and faces his own disappearing relevance. Meanwhile, his younger protege/love interest suddenly gets a career boost with the advent of the talking motion picture.
100-Word Review: A film that has been described as a “love letter to the movies” is equally critical of the industry, showing the ephemeral nature of fame and the way actors can be pigeonholed for the most superficial reasons. A simple beauty mark can change the course of a young woman’s career, and a certain vocal quality of a classically handsome man can turn him into a has-been overnight. The film is also a delightful, lovely story with an impressive blend of comedy, pathos, melodrama, and romance. It defines movie magic, and the dog should have been nominated for Best Supporting Actor.
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I haven’t seen the movie yet, but I’ve seen a review in which one critic said he hoped it might encourage people to see more movies from the silent film era. Are you familiar with silent films in general?
And I love the idea of giving a dog a supporting actor nod. Just on principle, that’s a beautiful thought.