The Artist (1:40) 2011

The Artist has received high praise from critics and it is richly deserved. The style of this black and white silent film is eye candy. Hazanavicius, the director, hits the bulls eye with the late 1920s style costumes, hair styles, automobiles and home furnishings. I did struggle with no dialogue because I like snappy dialogue with lots of one-liners. Fortunately, the acting and the soundtrack moved The Artist along at a good pace. The storyline is about the career of George Valentin, a star of the silent films. Being 1929, the talkies become so popular quickly, Valentin finds himself left in the dust with no career or wife. Valentin does have a connection with an up and coming young starlet, Peppy Miller, whom he gave a start. Peppy never forgets Valentin. As her career rises and his fails, she reaches out to give him a helping hand. Will Valentin's pride prevent him from accepting help? I recommend this highly unique tribute to the glory days of Hollwoodland but I again caution viewers that there is no dialogue so be prepared for a very different type of movie going experience.