The 2011 French film The Artist was such a surprise hit. Few thought that a black-and-white silent film would have a place among the CGI blockbusters that dominate the box office. Yet it won five of the 10 Academy Awards for which it was nominated, as well as received numerous accolades from other organizations. Set in the late 1920s, Jean Dujardin plays silent-film star George Valentin, who uses his fame to help aspiring actress Peppy (Bérénice Bejo) pursue a career in Hollywood. When the studio announces that it's ceasing production on all silent films, Peppy's star begins to rise, while Valentin's fades. No longer famous, Valentin loses his wife, home, money, and career. He's firmly planted at rock bottom — until Peppy suggests that they star in a musical together. Perhaps there's hope for him in Hollywood after all . . .
