“The Artist” is a 2011 French comedy that is a throwback to the black and white films during the Hollywood transition from silent films to the new “talkies”. It is directed by Michel Hazanavicius and starring Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo. The film focuses on the relationship of an older Silent film actor whose star is falling and a young starlet on the rise during a time of extreme change. It is fun to see the cast play with the troupes of this era. The film was successful in every way. It was nominated for ten Oscars by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. It won five, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Costume Design and Best Original Score.
The Beer Lover’s Guide to the Movies pairs this film with Red Hook Brewery’s Big Ballard IPA. This India Pale Ale has an ABV of 8.6%. It is a light amber hue with notes of fresh cut grass and tropical fruits. It tastes of citrus, cut grass, Carmel, and a big bitterness with a dry and hoppy finish. I chose this beer because it is so good you can sit in silence with it or enjoy the film with it.
