Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Jean Dujardin | ... | George Valentin | |
Bérénice Bejo | ... | Peppy Miller | |
John Goodman | ... | Al Zimmer | |
James Cromwell | ... | Clifton | |
Penelope Ann Miller | ... | Doris | |
Missi Pyle | ... | Constance | |
Beth Grant | ... | Peppy's Maid | |
Ed Lauter | ... | Peppy's Butler | |
Joel Murray | ... | Policeman Fire | |
Elizabeth Tulloch | ... | Norma (as Bitsie Tulloch) | |
Ken Davitian | ... | Pawnbroker | |
Malcolm McDowell | ... | The Butler | |
Basil Hoffman | ... | Auctioneer | |
Bill Fagerbakke | ... | Policeman Tuxedo | |
Nina Siemaszko | ... | Admiring Woman (as Nina Siemazko) |
Outside a movie premiere, enthusiastic fan Peppy Miller literally bumps into the swashbuckling hero of the silent film, George Valentin. The star reacts graciously and Peppy plants a kiss on his cheek as they are surrounded by photographers. The headlines demand: "Who's That Girl?" and Peppy is inspired to audition for a dancing bit-part at the studio. However as Peppy slowly rises through the industry, the introduction of talking-pictures turns Valentin's world upside-down. Written by L. Hamre
Jean Dujardin deserved his Palme D'or for his captivating and wonderful performance. Where to start...this film is so clever, so beautifully crafted, so mesmerising. The lost art of the silent film is once again brought to life and that era is impressively recreated, whether it be the acting style, the sets, the locations (shot in Hollywood), the shimmering black and white photography. It is obvious to see that the people behind L'artiste respected that era of film making and wanted to recreate the magic with some modern touches ( I won't spoil them) and totally succeeded. I saw this in Cannes at an 8.30 am press screening and was totally entranced. I cannot wait to see it again!