Hugo

Hugo



If you could see just one film this season I would recommend Hugo. I had no intention of viewing this child’s film. A good friend told me I had to see it. “A promise made is a debt unpaid” (Robert Service) I went out of loyalty to my friend.

This film in 3D is no child’s film. It is a masterpiece by Martin Scorsese. There is suspense, magic, creativity, humor and fine acting. The 3D is absolutely magical and wondrous. I could reach out and almost catch the snowflakes. The growling fierce dog seemed to be in my lap.

The cinematography was awesome. The French music played in the café of the train station made me want to get up and dance. Every aspect of the film was a delight.

In the film one of the characters states, “Come and dream with me.” That is precisely what the audience does throughout the film. The film is an adaptation of a children’s story, The Invention of Hugo Cabret.

Hugo is a young orphan who lives up in the tower behind the main clock of the train station in Paris. The setting is the 1920’s. He steals food and little gadgets to keep the clock working. He is constantly being chased by the station master ( Sacha Baron Cohen.)

I have never been a fan of Sacha Cohen but he is so perfect in this film. One leg has a steel brace and his fierce dog is always at his side. He is always looking for orphans to send to the orphanage. He is mean and ridiculous at the same time. He provides so much humor to this fantasy tale.

The proprietor of a toy store in the station is mean and cross. Hugo has stolen little parts from him to be used in keeping the clock functioning. The proprietor of the toy shop is magically played by Sir Ben Kingsley. He was always angry and trying to get rid of Hugo.

Hugo becomes friends with the toy shop owner’s granddaughter, Isabelle. The two share secrets and enjoy each other’s company.

As the plot unfolds we discover that the grandfather is really a famous film maker from the past. Hugo discovers a relationship with the film maker and his family. Remember this is fantasy and a child’s adventure tale.

Scorcese introduces us to the theme of old films and we find ourselves enjoying magical old films within the film. It is clever and creative. It is all the more magical because it is in 3D.

Visually the film is great. The scenes in the train station are like looking at a moving painting. People are bustling to and fro. In one corner there is a little café. People dine here and dance to the music of the quartet. .I loved the music.

The filming of the outdoor scenes is also wondrous. Snow seems to always be falling and the little narrow streets and crowded houses make for a picturesque sight.

How wonderful to enjoy a film so much. It was an unexpected delight.