Hugo

I had no idea that the tale of a 1930s Parisian orphan would also be Martin Scorsese's vehicle to draw attention to the need for film preservation. The movie is a love letter to the history of film and clearly exhibits Scorsese's passion for preserving old film. The entire movie is touching and full of beautiful views of the train station where Hugo lives and of the city. While the first act of the film is a bit slow, the movie is wonderful.

The cast is very strong. Asa Butterfield plays the title character and does an exceptional job. Ben Kingsley is a grumpy shopkeeper who becomes an integral figure in Hugo's life and leads him to a friendship with Chloë Grace Moretz's Isabelle. Sacha Baron Cohen is quirky and enjoyable as the Station Inspector. He truly is a good actor, when appearing in films that he did not write or direct, see also Sweeney Todd. In his own movies Cohen's main goal is to try to shock or be controversial. Hardly the intents of Martin Scorsese. You may also notice several characters are also portrayed by actors that appeared in the Harry Potter series, I counted at least three.

The cinematography is wonderful and I would be very surprised if the film does not win the Best Cinematography Oscar. In all honestly, while it is not my favorite picture, War Horse does seem to be the most deserving of the cinematography award.

This film works on many levels. The love of movies is highlighted throughout and intertwined with the story of a lonely boy, a lonely old man and how we all need personal connections. Hugo has the most Oscar nominations with 11 total.

Announced as presenters for the Oscars thus far:
The cast of Bridesmaids were the first Oscar presenters to be announced, Rose Byrne, Ellie Kemper, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Maya Rudolph, and nominees Kristen Wiig (Best Original Screenplay) and Melissa McCarthy (Best Supporting Actress). Also presenting, Emma Stone, Penelope Cruz, Angelina Jolie, Halle Barry, Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise and Jennifer Lopez.