Review of Hugo (2011) by Natasha D — 08 Sep 2013
Hugo is a lyrical ode to the machine. The cinematography, sets, computer graphics explore incredible clocks, automatons, architecture. We see the train station as a machine; we see Paris as a machine. We see the magic that the machines that allow movies to be made can create.
Beyond the world of machines, the plot seems a little creaky and obvious. Asa Butterfield is incredible as Hugo; his eyes are mesmerizing. His relationship with Isabelle is interesting, particularly their wordplay. They seem to give each other special recognition for the correct usage of interesting words. Other characters, particularly at the Station seem to be almost mechanical side shows.
After a scintillating first half hour, the movie seems to drag. The whole is less than the sum of its parts.
This review of Hugo (2011) was written by Natasha D on 08 Sep 2013.
Hugo has generally received very positive reviews.
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