The opening ten minutes before the title appears is a kind of overture, relying more on the score than dialogue which also establishes the ordinary world of “Hugo.” Hugo Cabret (Asa Butterfield) lives in the walls of a train station in 1930s Paris, fixing the clocks that exist throughout – a job handed down to him by his father (Jude Law) and his Uncle Claude (Ray Winstone) before him. Hugo’s real interest lies in fixing an old wind-up figure that belonged to his father. When he meets the adventurous Isabelle (Chloë Grace Moretz) they learn more about the mysterious automaton when a heart-shaped necklace of hers fits perfectly into it.
Based on the beloved children’s book, The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick, Martin Scorsese ventures into new territory with what is surely to become a holiday classic. Scorsese’s first PG rated film in 18 years, “Hugo” exhibits the genius of one of the first great filmmakers back when the idea of motion pictures was being conceived, Georges Méliès (played by Ben Kingsley). Hugo and Isabelle are educated in the creation of film and exposed to the magic of movie making, where dreams are made real.
The cinematic strength of “Hugo” leaves a lasting impression that remains long after its over. Being an adventurous children’s film, it also serves as a tribute from one great filmmaker to another. It is a wonder to finally see a film that has returned to cinema’s roots to remind us of what movies are all about, its a refreshing experience. Scorsese has provided a family film that is just as pertinent a contribution as his other more adult films that will, with a little hope, inspire a new generation of filmmakers.
The all-star cast also includes appearances from Christopher Lee, Emily Mortimer, Michael Stuhlbarg, Richard Griffiths, and Sacha Baron Cohen as the villainous yet comic station inspector who threatens to put young Hugo into an orphanage if caught. The film also marks Johnny Depp’s second effort as a producer, which began with “The Rum Diary” earlier this year and also with Tim Burton’s “Dark Shadows” which is scheduled to be released in May.
In the film the spot on performances, which are be expected in a Martin Scorsese picture, and interesting cinematography help to create the unforgettable world of “Hugo” into the perfect motion picture adaptation of the book. The trustworthy two-time Academy Award nominated screenwriter, John Logan provided the script of this fantastic family adventure film that will surely capture the imaginations of everyone who sees it.
“Hugo” opens nationwide today in 3D, as well as in select 2D theaters.
