On DVD and Blu Ray- Hugo - Visually outstanding, but perhaps a little too cold to the touch and complex for the younger set. Emotionally, it doesn't really catch fire until the last 15 minutes. That said, those of us who weren't able to catch this in theaters appear to have missed the premier 3D event of 2011- the smaller screen apparently removes quite a bit of the magic that so many critics adored. It's highly recommended, but only those with primo home theater setups- more specifically, those which include 3D capabilities- will experience the full effect.
There are a few intended story arcs involving secondary characters that are never fully realized, leaving one to wonder why actors such as Emily Mortimer, Jude Law, Christopher Lee, Ray Winstone and Richard Griffiths were even cast- perhaps just because we recognize them? Each of the aforementioned talents is only given a couple of lines to convey and a few fleeting moments of screen time- I'm thinking quite a bit of filler was excised to attain it's 126 minute run-time, as epic kids films appear to be a thing of the past.
Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz and Ben Kingsley are all very good to great where Sasha Baron Cohen (the film's central antagonist and comic relief) seems a bit forced and out of place- he's merely serviceable in a role that should have gone to someone with more presence and seasoning. Then again, maybe it was just weird for me to have seen "Borat" in a kids film...
Director Martin Scorsese and Cinematographer Robert Richardson (Platoon, Shutter Island, Kill Bill 1 & 2 and Inglourious Basterds) have crafted a visual treat for those who appreciate the art of photography- it's the constant star and obvious highlight of the film. As you have undoubtedly heard, expect a film and story which presents itself as a homage to early films and early film-making- it's all quite fascinating, really. Look for the Director in a "blink-and-you'll-miss-it" cameo.
8.5 out of 10
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