Today I've been to see Hugo - and I have to say it's one of THE most beautiful cinema films I've ever watched. Every scene, every frame almost, is a mini masterpiece in itself and the whole tale is breathtakingly gorgeous and atmospheric.
I've seen Hugo described as a "charming Christmas film for all the family" but, although my almost 13-year-old son enjoyed it, I'd suggest it's not really a children's film at all. It does have a certain Narnia feel and the story unfolds fairly simply - but it's certainly not one of those traditional pre-Christmas Pixar popcorn romps. Hugo is also well over two hours long.
For me, Hugo is too cerebral to be a mere “family film”, more thoughtfully conceived and constructed. It is subtle, sensitive, whimsical and - dare I say it? – tending towards "art house".
The film is very heavy on 3D effects, which are quite entertaining as gimmicks, but I believe Hugo would be just as stunning without them. Hugo is intrinsically so perfect and classy, the 3D trickery seems a little like hanging furry dice on the mirror of a sleek Daimler.
Hugo is, in a word, sublime. This film amply reflects hours and hours of painstaking production work, the most wonderfully vibrant imagination and utter devotion to the history and craft of film-making. Having been held spellbound by Hugo’s magic this evening, I’m going to see it again next week!
No comments:
Post a Comment