The Artist

I’ve been debating how to rate The Artist since we saw it a few days ago - I almost gave it 2.5*. I’m glad I saw it, it’s a great performance by Jean Dujardin, and a very nice one by Berenice Bejo - but.... 

Some films engross you and take you away from the stresses of life for a couple of hours - this story is nice but throughout it I was conscious that I was watching a movie. As my wife pointed out, you had to work at it constantly and this one felt long. 

Watching a movie without much sound other than occasional background music is a little strange (and I realize that that’s the point). But I don’t think I’d see it again.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

If you liked the first Sherlock, you'll like Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows. The chemistry between Robert Downey Jr and Jude Law continues to be superb and they have increased the not-so-subtle nuances of affection for each other: Downey is even more effeminate and his brother's nickname for him ('Sherley') is perfect.

I've seen reviews that didn't like the slow motion (and verbal) explanation (replays?) of the physical struggles and fights but I appreciated them. My wife found the level of violence excessive and wouldn't see this movie again. I think a few more verbal explanations of how Sherlock made his deductions might have helped but I can pick those up on (my) second viewing. I liked Noomi Rapace, whom I had not seen before (she is in the original Dragon's Tattoo films), and Jared Harris is very good as Moriarty.

The story moves along at a good pace. The visuals are quite dark - I cannot remember a light or sunny scene - perhaps there were some? I do recommend this, as I would most movies by Downey.