The Artist

This is probably the best French film I have watched for a very long time: with a breath-taking performance from Jean Dujardin, the film about one of film industry's difficult periods - from silent to 'talkies', has an incredible soundtrack and never a dull moment. While it reminds me of many highlights in the silent era, it is also incredibly modern in its message and its understated way to express it: behind the romance and drama is also a film about change, the only constant, and how we humans cope with it. Hugo, another film based on the early period of the film industry, is however a mixed bag with many dramatic flaws and too philosophical junior protagonists. But I am glad I rummaged through it.