Hugo

It is Paris, 1931. Hugo (Asa Butterfield) is a young orphan boy who lives in the walls of the train station. He maintains the station clocks and steals from the cafe to stay feed, while constantly eluding the train station guard (Sacha Baron Cohen). Hugo befriends Isabelle (Chloe Grace Moretz) and the two set out on an adventure to uncover the secrets of a mysterious gadget left to Hugo after his father's death.
Hugo has to be one of the most visually beautiful films ever to be made. The flawless camera work swoops in and around the station, through gadgets and gears, and showcases the beauty of Paris. This film has to be viewed in 3D, it perfectly demonstrates what can be achieved from this effect and adds an extra layer of emotion to the storytelling.
Butterfield brings charm and wonder to the Hugo character while Mortez is adorable as Isabelle. The supporting cast are all great and Ben Kingsley gives a fine performance in his pivotal role.
One particular character, which I will keep unnamed, is actually based on a real life French filmmaker who helped pioneer the film industry and inspired cinema goers and fellow filmmakers alike. His work, along with many other examples of the first films in history, are showcased in Hugo.
Director Martin Scorsese, pays homage to pioneering filmmakers and to the early world of cinema. Scorsese's own love for film is evident throughout Hugo.The Academy loves to cream all over themselves when it comes to old cinema, meaning Hugo may very well win Best Picture at this years Oscars.
Hugo is an instant classic from a time where cinema was about making dreams and spreading joy, and this film is no exception. Pure magic.