THE ARTIST is a delectable and brilliantly devised film offering a magical carpet ride to an era gone by, when cinema was silent, its images black and white. Presented authentically as if it were made at the time, Michel Hazanavicius's romantic comedy symbolically explores the old alongside the new in the context of a story about a well established silent screen star whose star is falling and the up-and-coming new star of the talkies.

Exquisitely made with winning performances, we are reminded of the effectiveness of storytelling without words and the impact of music as a powerful emotional tool. It's easy to be captivated by this unique, universal piece de joie that above all makes us care for its characters as we journey through a maze of emotions.

In the opening scenes we meet the two key characters: George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) and Peppy Miller (Bérénice Bejo). Valentin is the self-assured screen idol, who loves the applause while Miller is an opportunistic star-struck would-be actress ready to take the chance, when offered. It is chance that brings Miller and Valentin together: a dropped notebook, a newspaper photo and hey presto, she is on the road to stardom. With the help of intertitles, Valentin tells Miller 'You need something the others don't have,' anointing her with a distinctive beauty spot above her lip. The way their love affair unfolds is something of beauty. He is smitten on the set as he watches her legs rehearsing their dance routine under a backdrop screen; she places her arm in his empty jacket sleeve and caresses herself in a fantasy embrace.

Dujardin and Bejo make a stunning couple: he with his Valentino-like movie-star looks and flashing smile, she with her enormous eyes, pretty face and immediate appeal. As Valentin's star begins its decline, he has only his adorable, obedient Jack Russell terrier as company and his faithful manservant and chauffeur (James Cromwell). Miller meanwhile is the new It Girl, with a bright future ahead.

Fi

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