Shot completely in black and white, Michel Hazanavicius's silent film "The Artist" depicts the advent of talking films from the perspective of two diverse actors, the silent superstar George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) and talkie upstart Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo). The most powerful actor in Hollywood when the story begins in 1927, George extends his largesse to offer Peppy a supporting role in one of his silent films. As talkies begin to dominate the box office, however, George's career suffers due to his obstinate adherence to silent movies, while Peppy's stardom flourishes in the new format. When his studio eradicates silent movies completely and the unemployed George reaches a point of desperation, Peppy returns his former act of kindness with one of her own. Katie Kilkenny
Directed by: Michel HazanaviciusWith: Dujardin, Bejo, John Goodman100 min.Rated PG-13
"The Artist" is, in a word, magnificent. It breaks the norms set by the movies of today, relying not on special effects and elevated dialogue but on pure emotion to convey an honest, moving story. Emotions ranged from delight at the incredible performance of the lead actor's pet dog to genuine sympathy for a man left behind in the development of his industry. Marina Shkuratov
A perfect mix of different cinematic genres, "The Artist" is a spectacular film whose innovation lies in its spectacular directing and its homage to a bygone era of classic cinema. Combined with the bold acting from Dujardin and Bejo as well as the enticing score by Ludovic Bource, this silent film will leave you not bored but rather thoroughly entertained. Trust me, it will make you fall in love with movies all over again. Rohail Premjee
"The Artist" is a film from another time made in our time. Films like these remind you why you go to the movies. In a world of flashy effects and overt product placement, it is immensely gratifying to see a silent, black-and-white, French film be hailed as best picture of the year. The story is simple but powerful a love story to the art and industry of cinema. While watching "The Artist," you rely on your visual acuity and your brain's sense of putting scenes together because you can no longer rely on your ears. The film leaves us with what is minimally necessary to create a powerful film: a camera, a great cast and a phenomenal story. Gavin Huang
