I really, REALLY liked this. It was just a joy to watch. Both Dujardin and Bejo were wonderful (as was the dog, natch).
I agree that its silence wasn't a gimmick, but can see why people would think that.
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This film also had some of the best lighting work I've ever seen, and the only time I wasn't completely lost in it was when John Goodman showed up, because I was reminded that it was a modern film at that point.
Still, just glorious and exquisite. It might be my new favorite of 2011.