Kevin's Watch

How did he do that? A film. Silent. Black and white. In todays world of CGI, and demand for high octane thrills it should not have been possible (whoever did he get to front the $15 million budget) but Michael Hazanavicius has crafted an absolute masterpiece that draws you in and holds you from the outset until it's beautiful conclusion. By the end of the film you are barely even aware anymore that it is silent (exept in very judiciously placed moments where sound is used to great effect in the context of the story). The unknown actors (to non-gallic peoples at least) in the lead spots are perfectly suited to their roles and the dog has to be seen to be believed. I hope someone else has seen this film to either confirm (or shoot down) this hagiographic account - but if not I just can't recomend enough that you take a punt on it. You won't be sorry!

My wife and I watched this a few nights ago. She thought it was OK, but I rather enjoyed it. Of the two of us, I think I've probably spent a lot more time as a kid watching classic movies. I have to say, though, that it's more than a throwback to an earlier period in cinema. There are a few absolutely amazing scenes that, while inspired by classic fare, rise above most in both cinematography and metaphor.

The plot is a bit simplistic and predictable, but that's mostly as it should be. What matters is how well executed it was, taking a steady hand and a direction that most execs would avoid like the plague - simple, honest sentimentality.

Besides the obvious nostalgia factor, there's also a very subtle message that we're missing something in our modern icons. The old stars, it seems to say, were both debonair and warmly human. Now we just expect some kind of rarefied, superhuman radiance.

My only complaint was that the female lead, while charming, seemed a little anachronistic in both physique and personality. Not glaringly so, and maybe it's just me.

well Julie has added it to her list of top ever movies. i adored it. thought every aspect was well thought out and well realized.

I absolutely loved it and hope they win many Oscars for it. And I know Sarge will be buying it for me when it comes out on DVD.

Not absolutely sure it should have won the 'Best Film' catagory ( not least because I haven't seen all of the nominees yet) but boy it was up there.

peter wrote:hagiographic

Now there is a word you don't hear every day.

A black&white silent film shot outside Hollywood? Sounds like a winner in my book already, and I know nothing about it.

Hashi Lebwohl wrote:A black&white silent film shot outside Hollywood?

Sorry, it was filmed entirely on location in LA.

Hashi Lebwohl wrote:

peter wrote:hagiographic

Now there is a word you don't hear every day.

I did wonder if it was really the right word for what I wanted but decided to run with it anyway.