Hugo

So, this morning, I finally got to see Martin Scorcese's latest film, Hugo.

As usual I will try to avoid giving away too much of the plot but suffice it to say that despite my initial skepticism, I am now a believer in the genius of this film.  It is a beautifully crafted tribute to two aspects of humanity that I greatly admire: the ability to heal ourselves AND others; and then the often heartachingly beautiful power of memories from our own lives, and viewing in retrospect the great acheivements of others, especially when they are believed to be lost.

Given the silent nature of some of the films within the film, it was an added bonus to behold the silent beauty of The Artist, the forthcoming black and white film from director Michel Hazanavicius.  Even the trailer is a work of art, and the hugely retro black and white screen is added to by a dance ability that one might have been forgiven for thinking obsolete and forgotten.  Watching it I felt a kinship to the director and his obvious love of old movies.  The lack of dialogue is something that is much underrated.  I have a short film from my cousin, a movie producer in Bollywood, and while it is only a few minutes long, it is a wonderous portrayal of reconciliation in a relationship, the more powerful because it is silent.

I urge everyone to see Hugo and to wonder about the gift that The Artist will doubtless be to a world too full of noise and mediocrity.