Though everyone told me that this was a great movie, I was still wary of a black and white silent film. I was wrong to doubt. A terrific movie –a real accomplishment. The lead actors were so charismatic, the dog was adorable, the story great, and the ending fantastic.
Jean Dujardin is unbelievably good as Geoge Valentin, a famous silent film star. By coincidence he meets, and is struck by, an aspiring young actress named Peppy Miller (Berenice Bejo). Peppy is adorably sweet and fun, and you can see why he likes her, but he is married, so it doesn't go anywhere even though she is clearly interested in him.
With the dawning of the Talkies, Valentin's career goes quickly downhill. His wife leaves him, he is out of work (convinced he doesn't fit into the world of sound -there is an interesting scene where suddenly everything around him makes sound, but he cannot speak), and he runs out of money. He convinces his loyal valet to reluctantly leave his service because he can no longer pay him, and he sells his home and all his things.
In the meantime, Peppy thrives in this new film environment. She becomes a star.
Occasionally their paths cross, and it is clear they both have feelings for each other, but the stars just don't seem to align.
The ending is brilliant, and leaves you with a good feeling in your heart.The director makes perfect use of his medium, making the silent film style work in the movie's favor -it actually adds suspense to the story.
Great movie.
I really liked this movie. All of the characters were likeable and the story was sweet and satisfying.
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