Hugo [2011]

Being a fan of Martin Scorsese films, I was very interested in seeing this movie. As a director Martin has a way with portraying the story that connects you to the characters. Hugo was no disappointment in such a connection.

On first hearing about the movie, I was told it was not worth the watch because the story really didn't go anywhere. So, going into it, I had a less than favorable expectation about what I would be viewing; however, that did not stop me from at least giving Hugo a chance.

Asa Butterfield (Hugo Cabret) was a pleasant surprise in this film. I hadn't seen much of him in Hollywood recently apart from hearing about his performance in The Boy in the Striped Pajamas which from the talks was more than inspiring. At the very beginning of this film, very few of us could actually relate to Hugo, but by the end of the film, the dynamic nature of his character allowed more people, including myself, to be able to relate to a child who has lost much and tried to make it on his own but just wanted love in his life.

Chloe Grace Moretz (Isabelle) gave a stellar performance as well. Feeling a bit unreal at the beginning with her character, you learn to love everything about her because her personality manifests halfway through the movie and you can't help but enjoy watching the scene light-up when she walks on. She brings hope back to the dreariness of Hugo's life.

A few things to note:

1. There are many themes in this movie that might need to be explained if you plan on showing it to kids or having a family-movie night. Definitely, kids will enjoy this film with the sense of thrill and mystery involved in it. 
2. As a college student, I was able to enjoy the movie in a purely Platonic way. You may find some aspects of it are a bit childish and immature but somehow Martin in his genius makes you appreciate the innocence once again.
3. Give the movie a chance to impress you. Walking in with an expectation is not a bad thing, but just remember not to overlay your expectation on the movie as if it were some kind of stencil. Let the movie work its magic and then afterward compare it to your previous expectation.

Overall, I found this movie satisfying and emotionally gripping. So, give this movie at least a one time watch and if you enjoy it as much as I did, you might find it in your collection one day.

Because of it's boyish feel and somewhat lack of true grit, shooting and killing, I am giving this movie: 4 out of 5 clocks (because bullets are too mainstream)

Thanks for reading.

~From the library of J.B. Wadsworth