Splendid performance

Rating: 9/10 (19 March 2012)

Went in to watch this movie with a skeptical mind, but came out really impressed!!
The movie is set in the early 1900s - pre talkies era and brings out the dilemma and internal conflict of George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) when the world moves on to talkies and fresh faces are introduced in cinemas. First off i have to say that the creators have done an incredible job creating the 1900s atmosphere. It is very complete in every detail - from the fat-ass cars to the way the actors act and this was very enjoyable.
I have to take a moment to comment on Jean Dujardin's acting. Seldom have I seen an actor portray so many emotions with such ease and comfort as he has and he truly is "The Artist" and carries the movie with him throughout. Bérénice Bejo has done well as Peppy Miller; but Jean Dujardin's performance just overshadows everyone and everything else in the movie.
The movie starts with a demonstration of George Valentin's talent and fame and how much the crowd loves him. But then the world is ready with the technology for the talkies but George Valentin isn't. The directors take a bold stand and make a movie without George instead starring Peppy Miller(Bérénice Bejo) while George makes a movie of his own. This is when his world topples upside down and he loses everything. The stock market crashes, his movie flops, Peppy Miller's movie is a hit and his wife leaves him. He has now to face his dilemma: whether to overcome his pride and embrace the talkies like the rest of the world or to embrace his pride and neglect the world. (To know what happens next you have to watch the movie of course :) )
Jean's genius has been woven in every minute of his dilemma and his expressions alone are worth watching the movie for.
A special mention the background music that is beautiful, simple and yet effective and adequately makes up for the absence of dialogues.
Summary: Story: 8/10 Acting: 10/10 Direction: 8/10 Camera work: 9/10 Background score: 9/10 Entertainment: 8/10
A final word: This movie is not for everyone. Watch it only if you have the taste for off beat movies and can enjoy pure performances.