When I first heard about The Artist, I wasn’t quite sure what to think about it. It was a French silent film. I wasn’t a big fan of French or silent films, other than a brief Clara Bow phase I went through. But, I am always up for something new, so one afternoon, I took off work and went to see The Artist. If you are wondering why I took off work, it’s because I knew that neither my 7-year-old son nor my husband would sit through a silent film.
I went to a newly renovated theater near our house. They’ve redone the seats, which I must admit are the nicest I’ve ever seen at a movie theater. As I settled in, I wondered what this movie going experience would be like.
Maybe because the movie was 20 minutes late starting (they had a problem with the projector), there were no previews. Or maybe you just can’t show talkie previews before a silent film because you need to get in the mood. Either way, when the film opened, I noticed some uncomfortable coughing going on and people wrinkling popcorn bags.
But, after everyone settled down, it was a wonderful movie. I found myself at one point actually smiling at the screen. I can’t remember the last time I’ve done that in a film.
The entire thing isn’t silent – there are actually a few words spoken in the end, which I felt was the perfect ending for this movie.
Tonight, The Artist looks to take home Oscars in the following ten categories: Picture, Actor, Supporting Actress, Cinematography, Directing, Original Screenplay, Art Direction, Costume Design, Film Editing, and Music (Score).
I doubt Berenice Bejo will win Best Supporting Actress, not because she shouldn’t (she was incredible), but Octavia Spencer seems to have that sewn up for The Help. But, it seems like it could sweep everything else. It has already won three Golden Globes, seven BAFTAs, one Directors Guild, four Independent Spirit awards, six Cesar awards, and Jean DuJardin won Best Actor at the Cannes Film Festival and for the Screen Actors Guild.
I know some people are saying Hollywood loves this film and will reward it handsomely because it glorifies…well, itself and its history. But the picture really is delightful. I am just afraid that the feeling I experienced in the theater won’t transfer well to DVD because between my family and pets, it is really difficult for my house to ever be completely silent.