Hugo

Review:

Set in the 1930s in a Parisian train station, Martin Scorsese takes us on a journey into a world of mysticism, adventure and comedy. Young Hugo Cabret (Butterfield) has been left with a mysterious robot that his late father (Law) designed; the key to its secrets lying in the hands of a jovial and eccentric girl (Moretz) he meets in the hustle and bustle of la Paris gare.

A first for Scorsese on a number of levels; his first children’s film, his first 3D film and his first film in seven years not to star Leonardo DiCaprio. Hugo is a refreshing example of Scorsese dabbling in the pastiche, homage and recreation of film history. As Hugo and Isabelle’s journey continues through the film, the likes of George Méliès, Django Reinhardt and Salvador Dali are wonderfully included in the telling of European art and creation.

For those unsure of Scorsese’s attempt at a children’s film, you have little to fear. The Oscar-winning director expertly understands how to tell any story and his desire to try 3D has been researched intensely by the film lover. Gleefully delving into the romance and animated essence of Paris, Hugo aims to warm the hearts of all audiences. With a stellar cast of up-and-coming young actors (Moretz maintaining her new celebrity) and practiced performers such as Kingsley and Winstone, this will be a magnificent addition to the already superb filmography of Scorsese.

Piers McCarthy